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Authentic Turkish lamb kofta kebabs served with herbs and spices.

Turkish Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Delightful Turkish Lamb Kofta Kebabs infused with rich flavors of lamb, aromatic spices, and complemented by a refreshing yogurt sauce, perfect for gatherings and family dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Kofta
  • 1 lb lamb mince (ground lamb) or substitute with beef Use beef for a milder flavor.
  • 1 small onion, grated or minced (about 1/4 cup) Use white, brown, or yellow onion.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup pistachio nuts, ground (optional) Add for extra crunch.
  • 3/4 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt Halve for table salt, +50% for salt flakes.
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp cumin powder
  • 1 tbsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For cooking.
For the Yogurt Sauce
  • 3/4 cup plain yogurt (Greek recommended) Provides a creamy base.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Adds tanginess.
  • 1/2 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
  • Pita bread or Lebanese flatbread, warmed
  • Lettuce leaves of choice
  • Sliced tomato
  • Sliced red onion

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it refrigerate while you prepare the kebabs.
  2. Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lamb mince, grated onion, minced garlic, ground pistachios (if using), cooking salt, black pepper, cumin powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently.
  3. Shape the Kebabs: Divide the mixture into eight equal portions. Wet your hands and shape the mixture into long, cylindrical forms around skewers.
Cooking
  1. Cook the Kebabs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the skewers in the pan and cook for about 8 minutes, turning occasionally.
  2. Slice and Serve: Slice the tomatoes and red onion. Serve the kebabs with warm pita bread, lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and the chilled yogurt sauce.

Notes

Allow the kofta mixture to rest for about an hour for enhanced flavor absorption. Use flat skewers to prevent the meat from spinning while cooking. For a smokier flavor, consider grilling the kebabs.