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Lamb Kofta

Delicious and juicy grilled lamb koftas paired with a cool and refreshing yogurt sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Kofta
  • 1 lb ground lamb (80-85% lean) For juicy koftas.
  • 1 medium grated onion Adds moisture and savory depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced for punch.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Bright, herby lift. Mint can be used on top.
  • 1 tsp ground cumin Adds warmth.
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon Subtle warmth.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Tenderizes the meat.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Helps with juiciness and browning.
For the Yogurt Sauce
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt Cool and creamy base.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, grated or minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chopped dill or mint Optional for extra flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, garlic, parsley, spices, baking soda, and olive oil. Mix with your hand until well combined, but do not overwork it.
  2. Chill the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Wet your hands lightly, form the meat into small logs or press it around skewers.
Making the Sauce
  1. Stir together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, olive oil, and chopped dill or mint.
  2. Taste and adjust salt and lemon as needed.
Cooking
  1. Grill, broil, or pan sear the koftas until browned on the outside and cooked through in the center.
  2. Let the koftas rest for a couple of minutes.

Notes

For best results, soak wooden skewers for 20 to 30 minutes before using. You can make the kofta mixture a day before and shape it right before cooking.