Lamb kofta is a flavorful and juicy Middle Eastern dish made from ground lamb mixed with various spices and herbs. These spiced lamb meatballs are typically grilled or cooked on skewers, and they’re perfect for serving with pita bread, a refreshing yogurt sauce, and some fresh veggies. Here’s a recipe to make delicious lamb kofta:

Ingredients:

For the Kofta:

  • 1 pound ground lamb
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling or cooking)

For the Yogurt Sauce:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

2. Mix Thoroughly:

  • Using your hands, mix the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the lamb mixture.

3. Shape the Kofta:

  • Take a handful of the lamb mixture and shape it into elongated sausage-like patties, about 3-4 inches in length and 1 inch in diameter. Thread them onto skewers if you’re grilling.

4. Cook the Kofta:

  • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the kofta with olive oil and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked through.

5. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:

  • In a separate bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, chopped mint, salt, and pepper. Stir well to make the yogurt sauce.

6. Serve:

  • Serve the lamb kofta hot off the grill or stovetop. You can serve them on a platter with the yogurt sauce drizzled over the top. They’re great with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a side salad.

Lamb kofta is a fantastic dish for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. It’s bursting with flavors and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. Enjoy your homemade lamb kofta!