Lamb kofta with yogurt dressing is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish packed with flavor and is surprisingly easy to make. The combination of juicy lamb, fragrant herbs, and tangy yogurt dressing is irresistible.
To make this dish, you’ll need lamb mince, onions, parsley, mint leaves, garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. For the yogurt dressing, you’ll need Greek yogurt, a cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
History of Lamb Kofta
Kofta originated in the Middle East and South Asia, where it was traditionally made with ground beef or lamb mixed with spices and herbs. The word “kofta” resembles the Persian word “kuftan,” with the meaning of “to pound” or “to grind.”
Over time, kofta recipes have evolved and spread throughout the world. In some regions, kofta is made with fish, chicken, or even vegetables. But lamb kofta remains a popular choice, especially in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Lamb kofta is often considered a national dish in countries like Turkey and Greece. It’s typically served with pita bread, rice, or a salad, and is often accompanied by a yogurt-based sauce or dip.
One of the reasons lamb kofta is so beloved is its versatility. It can be grilled, baked, or fried, and can be seasoned with a wide range of spices and herbs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover lamb or beef.
Ingredients:
- 800g of lamb mince
- 4 finely chopped onions
- ½ cup of chopped flat-leaf parsley
- ¼ cup of finely chopped mint leaves
- 1 finely chopped clove of garlic
- 2 tsp of ground cumin
- 1 tsp of ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the yogurt dressing:
- ¾ cup of Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp of lemon juice
- 1 finely chopped clove of garlic
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Dressing?
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In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, chopped spring onions, fresh herbs, minced garlic, spices, and seasoning. Mix thoroughly using your hands until well incorporated.
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Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into an oblong sausage shape. Thread the shaped kofta onto pre-soaked skewers, gently pressing them to secure. Refrigerate the kofta skewers for 20 minutes.
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Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium heat. Lightly brush the grill surface with oil. Grill the kofta skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
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Remove the cooked kofta from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes under tented foil to retain moisture.
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In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (excess liquid squeezed out). Add lemon juice, minced garlic, and additional seasoning to taste. Mix well until a smooth sauce is formed.
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Plate the lamb kofta skewers and accompany them with the refreshing yogurt dressing. You can use lemon wedges as an optional garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
When serving lamb kofta with yogurt dressing, there are a variety of accompaniments that can complement the dish. One option is to serve the kofta with a side of warm pita bread. The bread can be used to wrap the kofta and dip it in the yogurt dressing for a delicious combination of flavors.
Another great option is serving the kofta with a tabbouleh salad. The fresh herbs and vegetables in the salad pair well with the spiced lamb and yogurt dressing.
For a more substantial side, roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers can be a great addition to the meal. The vegetables can be seasoned with similar spices as the kofta for a cohesive flavor profile.
Plating Ideas
There are several ways to make the dish look visually appealing. One option is to place the kofta on a bed of couscous or rice, with the yogurt dressing drizzled on top.
Another option is to skewer the kofta and serve them as appetizers. The skewers can be arranged on a platter and garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for added color and flavor.
For a more rustic presentation, the kofta can be served on a large platter with the yogurt dressing in a small bowl on the side. This allows guests to serve themselves and customize their portions to their liking.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate promptly: If you have any leftover lamb kofta, refrigerate it promptly. Leaving it out at room temperature for too long can cause bacteria to grow, which can lead to food poisoning. Store the lamb kofta in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
- Use within 3-4 days: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. After that, it’s best to discard any leftovers to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
- Freeze for later: If you don’t plan on eating the leftover lamb kofta within 3-4 days, you can freeze it for later. Simply place the lamb kofta in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
- Reheat properly: When reheating leftover lamb kofta, make sure to do so properly to avoid the risk of food poisoning. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before eating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure that your kofta turns out delicious every time:
- Overworking the meat: When mixing the lamb with the spices, be careful not to overwork the meat. Overworking the meat can lead to tough and dry kofta. Mix the spices in gently and just enough to combine everything.
- Skipping the resting time: After you have mixed the lamb with the spices, it’s important to let the mixture rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for a more flavorful kofta. Don’t skip this step!
- Not using enough salt: Lamb can be quite flavorful on its own, but it’s important to season it well with salt. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the salt, as it will bring out the flavors of the lamb and spices.
- Overcrowding the pan: When cooking the kofta, be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming, which can result in a less flavorful kofta. Cook the kofta in batches if necessary.
Conclusion
I hope this recipe for lamb kofta with yogurt dressing has inspired you to try something new in the kitchen!
Throughout the article, I have shared with you my personal experience cooking this dish and the tips I have learned along the way. By using fresh ingredients and following the steps carefully, you too can create a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve the lamb kofta with a variety of sides, such as rice, salad, or pita bread. The yogurt dressing adds a refreshing touch that complements the spices in the meat perfectly.
Remember to have fun and experiment with different spices and ingredients to make this recipe your own. Cooking is all about creativity and personal preference, so don’t be afraid to make adjustments and try new things.
I hope you enjoy making and eating this lamb kofta with yogurt dressing as much as I do. Happy cooking!
As mentioned above, tabbouleh salad is a great accompaniment for this meal.
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