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Lamb Kofte Recipe

Lamb Kofte Recipe - Easy Meal Recipe

Lamb kofte is one of those dishes that can instantly transport you to far-away lands with its aromatic spices and flavors. In a bustling kitchen, nothing beats the sound of sizzling skewers over an open flame and the aroma wafting through the air. I've made lamb kofte countless times, and each experience brings as much joy as the last. You’ll be amazed how simple ingredients can come together to create something that tastes so special.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Moroccan
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 medium onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced to a paste
  • 1/4 cup panko-style breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp sweet paprika
  • 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tsp ground coriander seeds
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1 cup thick plain yogurt Greek-style recommended
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove, crushed to a paste
  • 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
  • Crisp shredded red cabbage
  • 8 wooden or metal skewers
  • 8 small 8 flatbreads or 4 large ones, warmed

Method
 

  1. Now, let’s jump into the cooking process with a detailed step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture
  1. Start by combining the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, fresh lemon zest, breadcrumbs, and chopped cilantro in a large bowl.
  2. Mix them until everything is well incorporated. The goal is to achieve a uniform mixture. Make sure to not overwork it, as that can make the meat tough.
Step 2: Add The Spices
  1. In a separate small bowl, mix the kosher salt, ground cumin, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cinnamon, ground coriander, black pepper, and allspice.
  2. Sprinkle this spice blend over your meat mixture. Use your hands to gently fold the spices in, making sure they are evenly distributed. This step is crucial; it ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Shape the Kofta
  1. With wet hands (this makes it easier), take a portion of the meat mix and shape it into a log or oval shape, about the size of a hot dog.
  2. Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into kofta.
Step 4: Prepare the Skewers
  1. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning.
  2. Carefully thread each kofta onto a skewer, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Kofta
  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are browned and cooked through.
  3. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Make the Yogurt Dressing
  1. While the kofta is grilling, prepare the yogurt dressing.
  2. In a bowl, combine the thick yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix this well until smooth, and set aside.
Step 7: Serve It Up
  1. Once your kofta are done, serve them warm, garnished with shredded red cabbage, grated carrot, and fresh mint.
  2. Don’t forget to drizzle the yogurt dressing on top or serve it on the side for dipping.

Notes

To elevate your lamb kofte cooking experience, consider these essential tips:
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices make a world of difference in flavor.
  • Don’t Overwork the Mixture: Less handling keeps the texture light.
  • Cook on a Direct Flame: Grilling over charcoal or an open flame gives that smoky flavor.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute.
Experiment: Try different spices or herbs, like mint or parsley, for a unique twist.