Description
Lamb Kofta is a flavorful and juicy minced meat dish that’s popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The lamb is mixed with a blend of spices, herbs, and seasonings, then either grilled or pan-seared until golden and cooked through. The koftas are typically served with a side of tzatziki sauce – a refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip that adds coolness and creaminess, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lamb Kofta:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried mint)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Pita bread, warmed
- Fresh vegetables (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion)
- Lettuce or arugula (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
2. Make the Lamb Kofta:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape Koftas: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into an oval or cylindrical shape around a skewer (if using). Alternatively, you can form them into patties.
- Preheat Grill or Skillet: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the Kofta:
- Grill or Sear: Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. If using a grill, ensure to turn them carefully to avoid breaking.
4. Warm the Pita Bread:
- Heat Pita: While the kofta is cooking, warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or wrap in aluminum foil and place in a warm oven for a few minutes.
5. Serve:
- Plate the Kofta: Serve the lamb kofta hot, accompanied by the tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and fresh vegetables.
- Garnish: You can also serve with lettuce or arugula for added freshness.
Notes
For extra flavor, serve with a side of pickled red onions or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of sumac can also add a delicious kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Plate
- Calories: 550kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki and Warm Pita Bread