Name: Grilled Lamb Koftas: 5 Best Tips for Juicy Perfection Every Time
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb (454 g); 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (21 g); 2 teaspoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 white onion, minced (about 1/2 cup); 2 teaspoons cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt (146 g); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Air Fryer Paper Liners

Buy Now →

Vegetable Chopper

Buy Now →

Magic Bullet Blender

Buy Now →

There’s something magical about the sizzle of Grilled Lamb Koftas hitting the grill—the smoky aroma, the juicy tenderness, and the explosion of spices that make your taste buds dance. These koftas are a celebration of flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it on repeat. It’s that good.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Lamb Koftas

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Grilled Lamb Koftas

Here’s the magic of these koftas—they’re made with simple ingredients, but the result is nothing short of spectacular. Let’s break it down:

Ground Lamb: The star of the show. Rich, flavorful, and perfectly tender when grilled.

Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds just the right amount of texture to keep the koftas juicy.

Olive Oil: Helps bind everything together and adds a subtle richness.

Garlic and Onion: The dynamic duo that brings depth and aroma to every bite.

Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, Cinnamon, Ginger, Allspice): A warm, fragrant blend that makes these koftas unforgettable.

Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

Greek Yogurt: The creamy, tangy base for the perfect dipping sauce.

Fresh Cilantro: A bright, herbaceous finish that ties everything together.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create these flavorful Grilled Lamb Koftas:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Mince the garlic and onion finely. Combine all the kofta ingredients in a large bowl. Mix gently—don’t overwork the meat, or the koftas will be tough.

2. Shape the Koftas: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into small, oblong patties or skewer them onto sticks for a traditional look.

3. Preheat the Grill: Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. A well-heated grill ensures a perfect sear and juicy interior.

4. Grill to Perfection: Cook the koftas for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re nicely charred and cooked through. Resist the urge to flip them too soon—let them develop that gorgeous crust.

5. Make the Yogurt Sauce: While the koftas grill, whisk together the yogurt, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and lemon juice.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the koftas with a drizzle of yogurt sauce, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and your favorite sides.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Grilled Lamb Koftas

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

– Fresh Salads: A crisp cucumber-tomato salad or a tangy tabbouleh.
– Warm Flatbreads: Perfect for wrapping around the koftas for a handheld meal.
– Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant add smoky sweetness.
– Rice or Couscous: A fluffy bed of grains soaks up all the delicious juices.
– Extra Yogurt Sauce: Because you can never have too much.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Shape the koftas ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to grill.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for extra heat.

Dietary Adjustments: Swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free yogurt if needed.

Storage Tips: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or oven.

Double the Batch: Freeze uncooked koftas for up to a month—thaw before grilling.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use beef instead of lamb?
A1: Absolutely! Ground beef works well, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Q2: Can I bake these instead of grilling?
A2: Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q3: How do I keep the koftas from falling apart?
A3: Don’t skip the breadcrumbs—they help bind the mixture. Also, avoid overmixing.

Q4: Can I make these gluten-free?
A4: Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A5: Gently reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain texture.

Q6: Can I freeze cooked koftas?
A6: Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Q7: What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
A7: Fresh parsley or mint are great substitutes.

Q8: Can I cook these on a stovetop grill pan?
A8: Absolutely! A grill pan works perfectly—just preheat it well.

Q9: How spicy are these koftas?
A9: Mild by default, but add cayenne or chili flakes to taste.

Q10: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A10: Fresh is best for garnish, but dried herbs can be used in the mix.

Conclusion

These Grilled Lamb Koftas are a game-changer—juicy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. Fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready for a meal that’s as memorable as it is delicious. Happy cooking!
“`