Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful, savory dish that brings together tender, spiced lamb meatballs and a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce. This dish is inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where kofta (minced or ground meat mixed with spices and herbs) is a popular choice for grilling or pan-frying. The lamb koftas are aromatic, juicy, and packed with a variety of spices that elevate the flavor profile, while the cucumber yogurt sauce offers a cool, creamy, and tangy contrast.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a gathering, or even a summer barbecue, Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce delivers a satisfying meal with layers of flavor. This recipe includes a blend of fresh ingredients, making it both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you are a first-time cook or an experienced chef, this dish is straightforward to make and is guaranteed to impress anyone you serve it to.

Why You’ll Love Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

• Juicy, Flavorful Koftas: The lamb koftas are moist, flavorful, and spiced to perfection. They are juicy on the inside with a slight crisp on the outside, making every bite irresistible.
• Cool and Creamy Yogurt Sauce: The cucumber yogurt sauce is a perfect complement to the lamb koftas. It’s light, refreshing, and tangy, which balances the rich and savory flavors of the kofta.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Made with fresh ingredients like lamb, herbs, and yogurt, this dish offers a combination of protein, vitamins, and probiotics, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
• Quick and Easy: The recipe comes together quickly and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. With simple steps and minimal prep, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile: Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce can be served with a variety of sides, such as flatbreads, rice, couscous, or even a fresh salad. It’s also great for meal prepping.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 5-8g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 4-5g

Ingredients

For the Lamb Kofta:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• Optional: 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes for extra heat

For the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 medium cucumber, grated or finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture

Start by preparing the lamb kofta mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, and the ground spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon. Add salt and black pepper, and mix everything together thoroughly.

For best results, use your hands to mix the ingredients, as this ensures that the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the meat. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when formed into meatballs. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water to help bind the ingredients together.

If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes to the mixture for extra heat. The amount can be adjusted to your taste, depending on how spicy you like your koftas.

2. Shape the Koftas

Once the kofta mixture is well combined, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls or ovals, about 2-3 inches in length. Traditionally, koftas are shaped like oblong patties, but you can shape them however you like.

You should be able to make around 12-14 koftas with this recipe, depending on the size. If you want the koftas to cook evenly, try to make them uniform in size.

For extra flavor, you can skewer the koftas onto wooden or metal skewers, which will help with grilling and allow for easy flipping during cooking.

3. Prepare the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

While the koftas are being prepared, make the cucumber yogurt sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt with the grated or finely chopped cucumber. Be sure to remove the excess water from the cucumber before adding it to the yogurt, either by pressing it in a strainer or patting it with a paper towel.

Next, add the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill (if using), and minced garlic (if desired). Season with salt and pepper, then stir until the ingredients are well combined. The result should be a creamy, tangy sauce with a refreshing cucumber flavor.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preferences.

4. Cook the Koftas

You can cook the koftas in a variety of ways, depending on your preference and available equipment. Here are three common methods:

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the koftas from sticking. Grill the koftas for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. If using skewers, make sure to rotate them every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Pan-Frying: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the koftas to the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. The koftas should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the koftas on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and fully cooked. This method is great for making a larger batch of koftas and requires less hands-on attention.

No matter the cooking method, be sure to keep an eye on the koftas to avoid overcooking. They should be juicy and tender on the inside while having a slightly crispy exterior.

5. Serve the Koftas with the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

Once the koftas are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the koftas moist and flavorful.

Serve the koftas with a generous dollop of cucumber yogurt sauce on the side. The cool, tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the savory, spiced lamb, balancing the richness and providing a refreshing contrast.

Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce can be served with a variety of sides, such as pita bread, flatbreads, couscous, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also garnish the dish with extra fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for added color and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

• Use Ground Lamb with a Higher Fat Content: For juicier koftas, use ground lamb with at least 15-20% fat content. The fat helps keep the koftas moist and tender during cooking.
• Don’t Overmix the Meat: When mixing the lamb with the spices and herbs, avoid overworking the meat. Overmixing can result in tough koftas. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Let the Koftas Rest Before Cooking: If possible, allow the shaped koftas to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape and results in more even cooking.
• Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your preference. For example, you can add a bit more cumin for a smokier flavor or more cinnamon for warmth.
• Make the Yogurt Sauce Ahead: The cucumber yogurt sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes meal prep easier.

Variations of Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

• Beef Kofta: If you prefer beef over lamb, you can substitute ground beef for the lamb in this recipe. The flavor will be different, but it will still work well with the spices and cucumber yogurt sauce.
• Vegetarian Kofta: For a vegetarian version, try substituting the meat with a mixture of chickpeas or lentils, breadcrumbs, and spices. Form the mixture into small patties and cook as you would the lamb koftas.
• Spicy Kofta: Add more heat by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes, or try adding finely chopped green chilies to the kofta mixture for an extra kick.
• Mint Yogurt Sauce: Swap the dill in the yogurt sauce for fresh mint for a slightly different flavor profile that complements the lamb beautifully.

Storage and Shelf Life

Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later. To store the koftas and sauce:

• Refrigerate: Store the cooked koftas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the cucumber yogurt sauce in a separate container and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days.
• Freeze: If you want to store the koftas for longer, you can freeze them. Allow them to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

Pair this flavorful dish with complementary sides for a well-rounded meal:

• Flatbreads or Pita: Soft, warm flatbreads or pita are perfect for scooping up the koftas and yogurt sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs and spices makes a great base for the koftas.
• Greek Salad: A light Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich koftas.
• Hummus: A creamy, flavorful hummus pairs perfectly with the koftas and can be served as a dip or spread.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the koftas with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Couscous: Fluffy couscous with fresh herbs is a great accompaniment, soaking up the delicious sauce from the koftas.

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Conclusion

Lamb Kofta with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The savory, spiced lamb koftas combined with the creamy, tangy yogurt sauce make for a well-balanced meal that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your family. The recipe is simple, easy to follow, and highly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different spices and flavors. Whether served with warm pita, rice, or grilled vegetables, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors and refreshing textures of this delicious meal!