Indian Kebab Recipe – Juicy Baked Kofta with Spicy Tomato Sauce

Prep Time: 25 minutes   |   Cook Time: 25 minutes   |   Total Time: 50 minutes   |   Servings: 6

If you're craving a flavorful and juicy kebab with a rich, spicy sauce, this Indian-style Baked Kofta is the perfect recipe. Tender minced meat fingers are baked over a homemade tomato-based sauce infused with onions, garlic, ginger, and warm spices. The result is a comforting, aromatic dish that's ideal for family dinners or special occasions.

This recipe beautifully blends Indian and Middle Eastern influences. The minced meat is shaped into finger-like koftas and placed over a thick, savory tomato sauce that slowly infuses every bite with delicious flavor. Fresh tomatoes, tomato paste, green peppers, paprika, and a touch of chili create a perfectly balanced spicy and tangy sauce that pairs wonderfully with the juicy meat.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and impressive result. Prepare the sauce and shape the kebabs quickly, then let the oven do the rest. Serve it with rice, flatbread (naan or roti), or as part of a bigger spread. Whether for guests or a weeknight meal, these Indian kebabs deliver restaurant-quality flavor at home.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 1 kg minced meat (beef or lamb, preferably with some fat)
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 green bell peppers, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 green chili pepper, chopped (optional, adjust for spice level)
• Olive oil or ghee for cooking
• Toasted almonds and pine nuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir for 1 minute, then add the grated tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
2. Add the chopped green bell peppers, green chili (if using), paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until rich and fragrant. Turn off the heat and set aside.
3. Shape the minced meat into small finger-like kebabs (koftas). Avoid making them too thick for even cooking.
4. Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly in a baking dish. Arrange the meat fingers on top of the sauce.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 25 minutes, or until the kebabs are fully cooked and nicely browned on top.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with toasted almonds and pine nuts. Serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Use good quality minced meat with 15–20% fat for juicier and more flavorful kebabs.
• Do not shape the kebabs too thick so they cook evenly and quickly.
• Adjust the amount of green chili according to your preferred spice level.
• Toasting the almonds and pine nuts enhances the crunch and adds a wonderful nutty flavor.
• This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoy this aromatic and juicy Indian Baked Kofta with spicy tomato sauce — a delicious, satisfying meal that brings restaurant flavors straight to your kitchen!