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If you’re craving something wonderfully fragrant, juicy, and packed with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors, look no further than this Lamb Kofte Recipe. Each tender, spiced lamb log is a little bite of magic, bringing together fresh herbs, warming spices, and a hint of smokiness that will have your taste buds singing. Perfectly grilled and effortlessly delicious, this dish is an unforgettable way to enjoy ground lamb that’s humble yet endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Lamb Kofte Recipe are simple but thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component, from the fresh parsley and mint to the earthy cumin and cinnamon, plays a crucial role in making every bite fragrant and tender.
- 1 pound ground lamb: Use good quality lamb for rich flavor and juicy texture that holds together perfectly.
- 1 small onion, grated: Adds moisture and subtle sweetness while helping bind the mixture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings depth and savory warmth that complements the lamb.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Freshness and bright herbal notes that keep the dish lively.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint: Adds a cool, refreshing contrast that elevates every bite.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Delivers that signature earthy, slightly nutty Middle Eastern flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Offers a hint of citrusy spice that rounds out the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides warmth and subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky undertone that transforms simple grilled lamb into something extraordinary.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a gentle kick if you like your kofte with a bit of heat.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and brings the seasonings together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a mild sharpness that livens the palate.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing): Keeps the kofte moist on the grill and helps create that gorgeous crust.
How to Make Lamb Kofte Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Begin by placing the ground lamb into a large mixing bowl. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mint, and all your spices—cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Now, roll up your sleeves and use your hands to gently but thoroughly combine everything. Just be careful not to overmix since that can make the kofte dense instead of tender.
Step 2: Shape the Kofte
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a neat log or oval shape around metal skewers or wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. This shaping step is what gives koftes their iconic look and makes them easy to handle on the grill.
Step 3: Chill for Firmness
Place the shaped kofte logs on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This little rest helps them firm up so they hold their shape beautifully during cooking. It’s a simple trick that makes all the difference between juicy bites that stay intact and ones that fall apart.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Brush the kofte lightly with olive oil as well. Grill each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until the kofte are nicely browned on the outside and cooked through. They should be juicy, tender, and have a slight char that adds fantastic flavor. Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Serve Lamb Kofte Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your lamb kofte is where you can get creative and add freshness or contrast. Classic choices include a dollop of creamy tzatziki or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley and mint. A squeeze of lemon juice elevates the aromatic spices and adds gorgeous brightness to each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve your lamb kofte alongside warm pita bread or fluffy rice to turn it into a comforting meal. A fresh salad with crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and red onions tossed in a lemony dressing complements the rich flavors perfectly while adding a crisp, cooling element.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make your presentation stand out, try threading multiple kofte onto colorful skewers for a fun party platter. You can also serve them over a bed of grilled vegetables or alongside hummus and baba ganoush for a beautiful Mediterranean spread. Whether casual or festive, this Lamb Kofte Recipe shines every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your lamb kofte, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick meals the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep lamb kofte longer, you can freeze them either before or after cooking. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen kofte will stay good for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the kofte in the oven at 350°F until heated through or in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat. A quick reheat on the grill works wonders to revive that fresh charred flavor too.
FAQs
Can I use beef instead of lamb in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef or a beef-lamb blend works well and makes a great alternative if lamb is hard to find or not your favorite. The spices and herbs will still shine beautifully.
What can I serve with lamb kofte besides pita bread?
Consider fluffy couscous, fragrant basmati rice, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp tabbouleh salad. These sides complement the flavors and textures wonderfully.
Is it necessary to use all the spices listed?
While each spice contributes a unique note, you can adjust based on your preferences or pantry availability. The core flavors come from cumin, coriander, and fresh herbs, but the cinnamon and paprika add important warmth and depth.
Can I make the kofte ahead and freeze them raw?
Yes, shaping the raw kofte in advance and freezing them is a fantastic time saver. Just thaw completely before grilling to ensure even cooking.
How do I prevent kofte from falling apart on the grill?
Make sure not to overwork the mixture when combining and chill the shaped kofte before cooking. Brushing lightly with oil and preheating your grill ensures they cook fast and hold their shape perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Lamb Kofte Recipe is one of those dishes that brings home the warmth and soul of Middle Eastern cooking in a truly approachable way. Whether you’re cooking for family or serving friends, its irresistible spices, vibrant herbs, and juicy grilled goodness will always delight. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own and share the joy of lamb kofte around your table soon!
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Lamb Kofte Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus optional 30 minutes chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lamb Kofte is a flavorful Middle Eastern grilled dish made from ground lamb mixed with fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Shaped onto skewers and grilled to perfection, these juicy koftes are perfect served with pita, tzatziki, or a fresh salad for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 small onion, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Grilling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb with grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined to maintain juiciness and texture.
- Shape Kofte: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a log or oval shape around metal or soaked wooden skewers to ensure even cooking and easy handling.
- Chill: Arrange the shaped koftes on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the koftes hold their shape during grilling.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Cook: Brush the koftes with olive oil. Grill them for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning carefully to achieve even browning. Cook until the meat is browned on the outside and cooked through inside.
- Serve: Serve the lamb kofte hot with warm pita bread, refreshing tzatziki sauce, or a fresh salad for a classic Middle Eastern meal.
Notes
- Koftes can be baked as an alternative: bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Substitute ground beef or a beef-lamb mixture if preferred.
- To keep koftes juicy, avoid overcooking the meat.
