Lamb Kofte

Oh, my friends, if you haven’t tried Lamb Kofte, you’re seriously missing out. These little skewers of spiced lamb are packed with flavor, juicy, and absolutely irresistible. The combination of warm spices, fresh herbs, and tender lamb makes for a dish that feels like it belongs at a lively gathering, yet it’s so easy to make at home. Trust me when I say—once you try these lamb koftes, you’ll want to make them again and again. They’re perfect for grilling during the summer or even pan-frying when you’re craving something warm and comforting on a chilly evening.

These tender, savory lamb koftes are the ideal bite-sized morsels that hold all the rich, bold flavors of the Middle East, and they’re perfect for serving with a side of fresh flatbreads, a cooling yogurt dip, or a colorful salad. It’s the kind of dish that’s so full of flavor that you won’t even miss the sides—though, let’s be real, sides are always welcome!

Why You’ll Love Lamb Kofte

• Flavor-packed: The combination of lamb with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, garlic, and cinnamon makes every bite of these koftes an explosion of flavor.
• Quick and easy: Though they may sound fancy, lamb koftes are actually very simple to make. With just a few ingredients and some easy prep, you’ll have this dish on the table in no time.
• Versatile: Serve them with fresh flatbread, in pita wraps, over a bed of couscous, or as part of a mezze platter. There are so many ways to enjoy them!
• Perfect for grilling or pan-searing: Whether you’re firing up the grill or cooking indoors, these koftes hold their shape beautifully and develop a perfect char on the outside while staying juicy on the inside.
• Crowd-pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner, a weekend barbecue, or a gathering of friends, these koftes are guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients

Here’s the breakdown of the ingredients that will help you make the most flavorful Lamb Kofte:

For the Lamb Koftes

• Ground lamb: This is the base of the koftes, and the richness of lamb gives them that juicy, flavorful bite that you crave. If you can, try to get lamb with a bit of fat in it for the best flavor and moisture.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and a sweet, savory depth to the koftes.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic, finely minced, adds that punch of flavor you know and love.
• Fresh parsley: A handful of chopped parsley gives a lovely freshness that balances the richness of the lamb.
• Ground cumin: This warm spice is a key ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes and gives the koftes that unmistakable earthy flavor.
• Ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly floral flavor to balance the cumin.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Paprika: Smoked or regular paprika brings a slight smokiness and vibrant color.
• Salt and pepper: To taste. These are the essentials for seasoning.
• Olive oil: You’ll need a little olive oil to help bind the mixture together and prevent sticking when cooking.
• Optional – Aleppo pepper or chili flakes: If you want a little heat, this is where you can add some extra spice!

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Making Lamb Kofte is simple, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Mixture

Start by placing the ground lamb into a large bowl. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and all the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika). Season generously with salt and pepper, and if you like a little extra heat, toss in a pinch of Aleppo pepper or chili flakes.

Use your hands to mix everything together. You want to make sure that the spices and aromatics are evenly distributed throughout the lamb. Don’t overwork the mixture, though, or the koftes may become dense.

2. Shape the Koftes

Once the lamb mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape the koftes. Take small handfuls of the mixture and mold them into long, oval-shaped patties or cylinders, around the size of a small sausage. If you’re using skewers, you can mold the mixture directly onto the skewers. Make sure they’re not too thick, so they cook evenly.

3. Cook the Koftes

Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the koftes with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and then place them on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice char and are cooked through. You can also cook them on a grill pan or a barbecue for that extra smoky flavor.

Pan-Seared Method: If you’re cooking indoors, heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the koftes in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the koftes from the grill or pan and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in. Serve with fresh flatbread, a dollop of creamy yogurt, and a drizzle of tahini or a squeeze of lemon juice. You could also serve them with a side of couscous or a crunchy cucumber salad.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4-6
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories (depending on the size of the koftes)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Lamb Kofte

Lamb koftes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with many sides and sauces. Here are a few ideas:

• With Flatbread: Warm up some soft flatbreads or pita to serve alongside the koftes. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce or yogurt.
• Fresh Salad: Serve with a fresh Greek-style salad with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives for a burst of flavor.
• Yogurt or Tahini Sauce: A creamy yogurt dip or a drizzle of tahini adds extra richness and balances the heat from any chili flakes or spices.
• Couscous or Rice: Pair the koftes with couscous or a fluffy rice pilaf for a more filling meal.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Flavor: Add a dash of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to the lamb mixture for added freshness.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the lamb mixture ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shape the koftes right before cooking.
• Freezing: You can also freeze uncooked koftes. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, thaw and grill or pan-fry as usual.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground beef or chicken instead of lamb?
A1: Yes, you can substitute ground beef or chicken, but the flavor will be different. Lamb is preferred for its rich, slightly gamey taste, which complements the spices well.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Yes! Lamb koftes are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to serve them with gluten-free bread or a side that suits your dietary needs.

Q3: Can I bake these koftes instead of grilling or pan-frying them?
A3: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the koftes on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-18 minutes or until they are golden and cooked through.

Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftover koftes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Q5: How can I make these koftes spicier?
A5: If you like heat, add more chili flakes or Aleppo pepper to the lamb mixture. You can also serve the koftes with a spicy yogurt or harissa sauce for an extra kick.

Q6: Can I use skewers for grilling?
A6: Yes, absolutely! If you’re grilling, shape the koftes around wooden or metal skewers. Just be sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Q7: Can I make the lamb koftes ahead of time?
A7: Yes, you can shape the koftes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just don’t let them sit out for too long before cooking.

Q8: Can I freeze the koftes before cooking?
A8: Yes! Place the uncooked koftes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw and grill or pan-fry.

Q9: How do I know when the koftes are done cooking?
A9: The koftes are done when they’re browned on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you cut into one, the juices should run clear.

Q10: How do I serve these for a crowd?
A10: Lamb koftes are perfect for serving at a party. Serve them on a large platter with yogurt, tahini, and fresh veggies. They’re also great for making kofta wraps with flatbreads!

Conclusion

These Lamb Koftes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re grilling them up for a family dinner or serving them as part of a larger mezze spread. Full of flavor, easy to make

, and absolutely delicious, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Get ready to enjoy a tender, juicy bite with every single kofta!

Enjoy, and happy cooking! 🍽️

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