Izgara Kofte (Turkish Grilled Meatballs)
Turkish ızgara köfte are grilled meat patties loved in every corner of Turkey for their firmness, juiciness and onion-and-cumin seasoning. Their glycemic index does not apply because they contain no meaningful carbohydrate, and they are a protein-rich family meal that supports quick fullness and muscle building.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Have 3 to 4 grilled köfte with Turkish piyaz salad (white beans with onion and sumac) for a filling, complete meal.
Best preparation methods
Knead the mince well with squeezed grated onion, cumin and pepper, and use just one spoonful of brown breadcrumbs to bind it without adding much starch.
Important Nutritional Note
They provide complete protein, zinc and well-absorbed animal iron, ideal for athletes and anyone trying to keep blood sugar steady.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (150 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 193 kcal | 289.5 kcal |
| Protein | 16.7 g | 25 g |
| Carbohydrate | 1 g | 1.5 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 0.7 g | 1 g |
| Fat | 13.3 g | 20 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0.3 g | 0.4 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 193 kcal per 100 g, ranking 6 of 10 in Turkish dishes (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Do grilled Turkish meatballs raise blood sugar?
No. They are almost pure meat with practically no carbohydrate, and their glycemic index does not apply.
How many calories and how much protein are in a 150 g portion of ızgara köfte?
The portion provides about 290 kcal, 25 g of well-absorbed protein and 20 g of natural fat, with less than 2 g of carbohydrate.
Are grilled köfte better than fried ones?
Grilling over a flame removes excess fat and avoids soaking up hydrogenated vegetable oils, which makes them kinder to the heart and arteries.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.