Lamb Kofta Recipe | A Delicious Middle Eastern Delight

Lamb Kofta Recipe: A Delicious Middle Eastern Delight

Lamb Kofta Recipe is a savory and flavorful dish that originates from the Middle East, featuring ground lamb mixed with a variety of spices and herbs, shaped into patties or skewers, and then grilled or baked. 

Kofta is enjoyed worldwide for its rich taste and tender texture, often served with rice, pita bread, or salad. 

Here’s a detailed recipe to create this delightful dish at home, complete with cooking time and nutrition information.

• Cooking Time
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Kofta

*. Ground lamb: 1 lb (450 g)

*. Onion: 1 small (finely chopped)

*. Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)

*. Fresh parsley: ¼ cup (finely chopped)

*.Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup (finely chopped)

*.Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon

*.Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon

*.Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon

*.Paprika: 1 teaspoon

*.Ground allspice: ½ teaspoon

*.Cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a bit of heat)

*.Salt: 1 teaspoon

*.Black pepper: ½ teaspoon

*.Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (for grilling or frying)

*.Wooden or metal skewers (if grilling)

*.Optional for Serving:

*.Pita bread or naan

*.Tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce

*.Fresh salad (tomato, cucumber, onion)

*.Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

• 1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. 

The finer you chop them, the smoother the texture of the koftas will be.

If using wooden skewers for grilling, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.

• 2. Mix the Meat and Spices

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb with the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro.

Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, allspice, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Mix everything thoroughly by hand until all the ingredients are well incorporated into the lamb mixture.

• 3. Shape the Koftas

Divide the lamb mixture into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. 

You should get around 12-15 koftas depending on the size.

Roll each portion into an oval or cylindrical shape.

If grilling, insert a skewer through the center of each kofta.

• 4. Cook the Koftas
• Grilling

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Lightly brush each kofta with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.

Grill the koftas for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C).

• Pan-Frying

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Fry the koftas for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning them carefully until browned and cooked through.

• 5. Serve

Serve the lamb koftas hot with pita bread or naan, a side of tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce, and a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and onions.

Garnish with lemon wedges to squeeze over the koftas for an extra burst of flavor.

• Nutrition Information (Per Serving, approx. 2 koftas)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (2 Koftas)
Calories	300-350 kcal
Protein	20g
Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	3g
Fiber	1g
Sugars	1g
Sodium	500-600 mg

• Tips for Perfect Lamb Kofta

Use fresh herbs: Parsley and cilantro give kofta its signature freshness. Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

• Don't over-mix the meat

Overworking the lamb can result in tough koftas. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

• Rest the koftas

Let the koftas rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape and absorb the flavors better.

• Test one kofta first

Before cooking all the koftas, fry or grill one and check for seasoning. Adjust salt and spices if necessary.

• Variations

Beef or chicken kofta: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute lamb with ground beef or chicken.

• Vegan kofta

Use chickpeas or lentils mixed with spices, herbs, and breadcrumbs as a plant-based alternative.

Add nuts or dried fruit: Finely chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins can be added to the mixture for added texture and flavor.

• Summary

Lamb kofta is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings the rich and aromatic spices of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. 

With just a few ingredients and some simple preparation, you can enjoy this hearty, protein-packed dish in less than 40 minutes. 

Serve it as part of a main meal, in wraps, or as an appetizer – lamb kofta is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.