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Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki is popular for its delicious tastes.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Course: Main
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Servings: 4
Calories: ~420 per serving
Materials Required:
Skewers, grill or skillet, bowl
Ingredients:
1 lb ground lamb
1 small onion, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
Salt and pepper to taste
For Tzatziki:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt to taste
Method:
Mix lamb with grated onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, mint, salt, and pepper; shape into kofta and thread onto skewers.
Grill or pan-fry for 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
For the tzatziki, combine all ingredients in a bowl.
Serve the lamb kofta with a side of tzatziki.
Description
Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with spiced ground lamb shaped into patties or skewers and grilled to perfection. The koftas are often served with tzatziki, a creamy yogurt and cucumber sauce that balances the richness of the lamb with a refreshing, tangy flavor.
The Kofta:
Kofta is made by combining ground lamb with a blend of Middle Eastern spices, such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and allspice. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint, along with garlic and onions, enhance the flavor. The mixture is shaped into logs, patties, or balls and either grilled, pan-seared, or baked.
Tzatziki Sauce:
Tzatziki is a cool, creamy dip made from strained yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill or mint. It adds a light and tangy contrast to the spiced lamb kofta.
Presentation:
Lamb koftas are commonly served with warm pita bread, rice, or couscous, along with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh Mediterranean salad. A drizzle of tzatziki sauce over the kofta enhances its richness and balance of flavors.
Benefits
This dish is not just flavorful—it also offers several nutritional benefits:
High-Protein Meal:
Lamb is an excellent source of protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Essential Nutrients:
Lamb contains high amounts of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, all of which contribute to energy levels, immune function, and brain health.
Balanced Flavors and Textures:
The combination of spiced lamb with the cooling tzatziki creates a perfect harmony of rich and refreshing flavors.
Gut-Friendly Ingredients:
The probiotics in yogurt-based tzatziki aid digestion and promote a healthy gut.
Versatile and Customizable:
The kofta mixture can be adjusted to include different spices or herbs, and it can be served in various ways, such as over salads, in pita wraps, or with grain bowls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What cut of lamb is best for kofta?
Ground lamb with a bit of fat content (around 15–20%) is ideal for kofta, as it keeps the skewers juicy and flavorful. Leaner cuts can be used but may result in a drier texture.
Can I make kofta with other meats?
Yes! You can substitute lamb with beef, chicken, or turkey. However, lamb provides the most authentic Middle Eastern flavor.
How do I prevent kofta from falling apart?
To help bind the mixture, finely chop onions and squeeze out excess moisture before adding them. You can also chill the mixture before shaping and grilling.
Can I make kofta without skewers?
Absolutely! You can shape them into small patties or meatballs and cook them in a pan or oven instead of using skewers.
How long should I cook lamb kofta?
If grilling or pan-searing, cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. If baking, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Can I prepare kofta and tzatziki ahead of time?
Yes! The kofta mixture can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before cooking. Tzatziki is best when made fresh, but it can be stored for up to 2 days.
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