Turkish Lamb Kofta Recipe

Succulent lamb kofta with warm spices and fresh herbs, a delight from Turkish cuisine.

Turkish Lamb Kofta is a delightful and savory dish that originates from the diverse culinary traditions of Turkey. The term 'kofta' refers to a type of meatball or patty, which in this case is made from succulent ground lamb mixed with a variety of warm spices and fresh herbs. This dish is known for its rich flavors, the tender texture of the meat, and its aromatic profile.

Lamb koftas are often grilled to achieve a perfect char on the outside while maintaining juiciness inside. These koftas can be served as part of a meze platter, alongside flatbreads, and with dips such as tzatziki or hummus, making them incredibly versatile. Whether hosting a summer barbecue or crafting a hearty family meal, this Turkish Lamb Kofta recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Wooden or metal skewers

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form the Koftas: Using your hands, take small portions of the lamb mixture and shape them into long sausage-like logs. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the lamb logs onto the skewers.
3. Chill the Koftas: Place the skewered koftas on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill: While the koftas are chilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are white and ashy before cooking.
5. Grill the Koftas: Brush the koftas with olive oil to prevent sticking and place them on the hot grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the koftas are well-browned and cooked through.
6. Serve: Remove the koftas from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, alongside flatbreads, and with your favorite dips and salads.

Enjoy your Turkish Lamb Koftas with a variety of accompaniments to enhance the dining experience. They pair wonderfully with pita or flatbreads, and you can even wrap them in the bread along with some fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and red onion to make a tasty and portable meal reminiscent of street food.

For a rich and creamy contrast, serve the koftas with a luscious yogurt-based dip like tzatziki. The cool and tangy flavors of the yogurt will complement the warm spices of the koftas perfectly. You might also want to include a simple tomato and cucumber salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to provide a fresh and zesty counterpoint.

Grilling tips: Ensure your grill grates are well-oiled before placing the koftas on them to prevent sticking. If you're using an indoor grill or stovetop grill pan, you can achieve similar results. The key is to maintain a medium-high temperature and to turn the koftas occasionally to get an even char on all sides. For added flavor, you could include a small piece of fat in each kofta or baste with a bit of butter during the last few minutes of grilling.

Leftover koftas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. They make an excellent addition to salads or can be reheated and served with rice or couscous for a quick and satisfying meal. Additionally, you can freeze uncooked koftas for up to a month, allowing you to prepare in advance for larger gatherings or busy weeknights.