Mediterranean Spiced Lamb Koftas
These Mediterranean Spiced Lamb Koftas are a delightful twist on traditional skewers, combining the rich flavors of lamb with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Each kofta is tender and juicy, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite. Originally inspired by a British cooking magazine, this recipe allows you to enjoy these koftas grilled to perfection on skewers or shaped into succulent meatballs for a fun variation. Serve them with a drizzle of refreshing yogurt sauce and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Lamb
17.5 ounces (raw)
Ground Cumin
1 teaspoon (ground)
Ground Coriander
2 teaspoons (ground)
Garlic Cloves
2 large (crushed)
Fresh Mint
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Olive Oil
for brushing (as needed)
Salt and Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Yogurt
for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb with ground cumin, ground coriander, crushed garlic cloves, and chopped mint. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then gently shape them into oval koftas by rolling them on a flat surface using a cupped hand.
3
Thread each kofta onto metal skewers, ensuring they are secure but not tightly packed. Brush lightly with oil to prevent sticking during cooking.
4
Preheat a griddle pan or grill over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully place the skewers on the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning them only once they are well sealed to avoid sticking.
5
Once cooked, remove the koftas from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, drizzled with yogurt for added creaminess.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mediterranean Spiced Lamb Koftas?
They are savory skewers made from ground lamb mixed with aromatic Mediterranean spices and fresh herbs, grilled until tender and juicy.
What is the primary meat used in this recipe?
The primary meat used in this recipe is ground lamb.
How much ground lamb do I need?
You will need 17.5 ounces of ground lamb for this recipe.
What ground spices are used to season the lamb?
The lamb is seasoned with one teaspoon of ground cumin and two teaspoons of ground coriander.
How many garlic cloves are required?
The recipe calls for two large crushed garlic cloves.
What fresh herb is included in the mixture?
One tablespoon of chopped fresh mint is mixed into the lamb.
How many portions should the lamb mixture be divided into?
The mixture should be divided into 8 equal portions.
How do I shape the koftas?
Roll each portion into a ball and then gently shape them into ovals by rolling them on a flat surface using a cupped hand.
What type of skewers are recommended?
The instructions recommend using metal skewers to thread the koftas.
How do I prevent the koftas from sticking to the grill?
Brush the koftas lightly with olive oil before cooking to prevent them from sticking.
How long should I cook the koftas on the grill?
Cook the koftas for 3 to 4 minutes on each side.
What heat setting should I use for grilling?
Preheat your griddle pan or grill to medium-high heat.
Can I cook these if I don't have an outdoor grill?
Yes, the recipe suggests using a griddle pan as an alternative to a grill.
When is the best time to turn the koftas during cooking?
Turn them only once they are well sealed on one side to avoid sticking to the cooking surface.
Should the koftas rest after cooking?
Yes, let the koftas rest for about a minute after removing them from the grill.
When do I season the koftas with salt and pepper?
Season with salt and pepper to taste after they have finished cooking and resting.
What is a recommended serving suggestion?
Serve the koftas warm with a drizzle of refreshing yogurt for added creaminess.
Can I make these into meatballs instead of oval koftas?
Yes, the recipe description notes that they can be shaped into succulent meatballs for a fun variation.
Is this a difficult recipe to prepare?
No, this recipe is tagged as 'easy,' making it suitable for cooks of all levels.
What culinary style does this dish represent?
This dish is inspired by Mediterranean and Greek flavors.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The garlic cloves should be crushed before being added to the lamb mixture.
What is the specific amount of cumin needed?
The recipe requires one teaspoon of ground cumin.
What is the specific amount of coriander needed?
The recipe requires two teaspoons of ground coriander.
Is yogurt required for this recipe?
Yogurt is optional but recommended for drizzling over the finished dish.
What oil is used for brushing the meat?
Olive oil is used for brushing the koftas.
How much fresh mint should I chop?
You should use one tablespoon of chopped fresh mint.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe contains 8 total ingredients.
Should the koftas be served warm or cold?
The recipe recommends serving the lamb koftas warm.
Can these be prepared on an outdoor grill?
Yes, an outdoor grill is one of the recommended cooking methods for this recipe.
How should the ingredients be mixed?
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients using your hands or a spoon until thoroughly and evenly incorporated.