Grilled turkey kofta, great for summer BBQs

We asked Caitlin Boudreau, Lead Dietitian at TELUS Health MyCare, for a recipe that's not only delicious but also simple to make and ideal for summer BBQs with family and friends. Enter Grilled Turkey Kofta—a flavorful dish made with lean ground turkey, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, all served in warm pita bread with a refreshing yogurt sauce.

Grilled Turkey Kofta

(serves 4)

Ingredients:

• 1lb lean ground turkey breast

• 1 small onion, minced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup tbsp bread crumbs

• 2 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp ground pepper

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• 1 egg, optional

• Wood or metal skewers

• 4 whole wheat pitas

Yogurt sauce:

• 1/2 large cucumber

• 1/2 cup plain 2% Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, parsley and bread crumbs.

2. Add cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. If it doesn't hold together, mix in 1 egg. Place mixture in the fridge for 30 mins. to allow it to firm up.

3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning.

4. Shape turkey mixture into elongated kofta around the skewers. 

5. Gently oil grill, bring it to a high heat, and cook kofta, turning once until cooked through, approx. 9-12 mins.

6. While kofta cooks, make the yogurt sauce. Grate cucumber and place in a colander. Squeeze excess moisture from the cucumber. Stir cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice and garlic in a bowl. Add salt and pepper, to taste.

7. Serve kofta inside a whole wheat pita with yogurt sauce. Pairs nicely with a simple salad, or add shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes to the pita.

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a lean protein option that's great for keeping you full and satisfied. While it’s a fantastic choice for most people, registered dietitians on the TELUS Health MyCare app can provide personalized nutrition advice tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re planning your next potluck dish or just want to eat healthier, the dietitians at TELUS Health MyCare are here to help you make choices that best fuel your body.

Users must be 16 years or older to access dietitian appointments. Dietitian appointments are available for AB, BC, ON and SK residents. Dietitian appointments require additional payment of $120. Any payments for appointments must be paid using a valid credit card. An in-app receipt will be provided for you to claim for reimbursement if applicable.