There’s something truly special about Grilled Lamb Kofta—the aroma of warm spices, the juicy, flavorful bite of perfectly seasoned lamb, and that irresistible char from the grill. Pair it with a creamy, garlicky yogurt sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s both bold and refreshing.
My love for kofta started on a trip to the Middle East, where I was introduced to its incredible blend of flavors. The combination of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and perfectly grilled meat makes it a dish that’s impossible to resist. And the best part? It’s super easy to make at home, whether you’re firing up the grill or using a stovetop pan.
This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Serve the kofta with pita, rice, or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.
Every time I make this dish, it brings back memories of vibrant markets, sizzling street food, and warm, inviting spices. Let’s fire up the grill and bring those flavors to your kitchen!
Recipe Resume: Todd Wilbur Style
- This Grilled Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce features juicy, perfectly spiced lamb skewers, charred on the grill and served with a creamy yogurt sauce.
- A flavorful blend of cumin, coriander, garlic, and fresh herbs makes each bite irresistible.
- Served with warm pita or rice, it’s an easy, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home.
- Great for summer grilling, meal prep, or a quick, protein-packed dinner.
Why This Grilled Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce?
- Bold & Flavorful: Packed with warm Middle Eastern spices.
- Juicy & Tender: Perfectly grilled lamb that’s never dry.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy with pita, rice, or fresh veggie.
What You Need for Grilled Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce
For the Lamb Kofta
- 1 ½ lbs ground lamb (or a mix of lamb and beef)
- ½ cup onion, finely grated (excess liquid squeezed out)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional but recommended)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
For Serving
- Warm pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions
- Cooked rice or couscous
- Extra fresh herbs for garnish
How to Make Grilled Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything well, but don’t overwork the meat to keep it tender.
- Shape the Kofta:
- Divide the mixture into 8–10 equal portions and shape them into oval patties or long sausage shapes.
- If using skewers, mold the meat around the skewers for easy grilling.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Kofta:
- Place the kofta on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes.
- Make the Yogurt Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and fresh dill or mint.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve the kofta with warm pita, a side of rice, and plenty of fresh veggies. Drizzle with the yogurt sauce and enjoy!
Tips for Grilled Lamb Kofta
- Squeeze Out Onion Liquid: This prevents excess moisture, keeping the kofta from falling apart.
- Use Skewers for Easy Handling: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: Light mixing keeps the kofta tender.
Substitutions and Variations
- Beef or Chicken: Substitute lamb with ground beef or chicken for a different flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use lean ground lamb or turkey for a lighter option.
- Serve with a side salad instead of pita to keep it low-carb.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
Closing: Todd Wilbur Style
And there you have it—Grilled Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce, a dish so packed with flavor, it’ll transport you straight to a bustling Middle Eastern market. Juicy, spiced, and incredibly satisfying, this kofta is perfect for grilling season, a weeknight meal, or a special gathering. Pair it with pita, veggies, and that irresistible yogurt sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to check out more of our amazing recipes for flavor-packed inspiration. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions for Grilled Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the kofta mixture and shape it up to a day ahead. Store in the fridge until ready to grill. - Can I bake or pan-fry the kofta instead?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or pan-fry over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze kofta?
Yes! Freeze uncooked kofta on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling. - How do I keep kofta from falling apart?
Make sure to squeeze excess liquid from the onions and avoid overmixing the meat. - What’s the best side dish for kofta?
Serve with rice, tabbouleh, hummus, or a cucumber-tomato salad. - Can I use store-bought tzatziki instead of making yogurt sauce?
Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut. - Can I make mini kofta for appetizers?
Yes! Shape them into smaller patties and serve on mini skewers. - How do I get the best grill marks?
Let the kofta cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping. - What’s the serving size?
This recipe makes about 4 servings.