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Lamb koftas served with creamy yogurt sauce on a plate

Lamb Koftas with Yoghurt Dressing

Delicious spiced lamb skewers served with a creamy yoghurt sauce, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For Lamb Koftas
  • 1 lb lamb mince Choose high-quality, flavorful lamb for best taste.
  • 1/2 piece onion, grated Adds moisture and sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs Preferably panko for a light crunch.
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed Brings out the aromatic essence.
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander Adds a vibrant, herbaceous note.
  • 2 tsp cumin Earthy and warm.
  • 2 tsp coriander Citrusy and light.
  • 2 tsp paprika Sweet and slightly smoky.
  • 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon Sweet and warm, elevates the flavor.
  • 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper Optional for a kick.
  • 1 tsp cooking/kosher salt Essential for balance.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Complements the lamb.
  • 8 pieces skewers To hold the koftas.
For Yoghurt Sauce
  • 1 cup yogurt Greek or thick plain for creaminess.
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Enhances richness.
  • 1 clove garlic Adds depth.
  • 1 tsp cumin Matches the koftas.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Adds brightness.
  • 1/4 tsp salt and pepper For seasoning.
For Serving
  • 8 pieces flatbreads Small ones, perfect for wrapping.
  • salad (shredded red cabbage, carrot, mint) or alternative (lettuce, tomato, onion) For freshness.

Method
 

Prepare Yoghurt Sauce
  1. Combine yogurt, olive oil, crushed garlic, cumin, and lemon juice in a bowl.
  2. Season with salt and pepper, mix thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
Prepare Koftas
  1. Grate the onion.
  2. In a large bowl, mix grated onion, lamb mince, breadcrumbs, crushed garlic, coriander, and spices.
  3. With damp hands, divide the mixture into 8 portions and shape onto skewers.
Cook Koftas
  1. For stovetop, heat oil over medium-high heat and cook koftas for about 5 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
  2. For BBQ, preheat to medium-high and grill for about 6 minutes, turning for even browning.
  3. For broiler, preheat and cook about 12 minutes, rotating as necessary.
Assemble
  1. Spread yogurt sauce on flatbread, add salad, and top with kofta. Drizzle more yogurt sauce on top.

Notes

Keep meat quality high for juiciness. Refrigerate koftas/sauce for flavor development. Use damp hands to shape koftas.