| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 353 | 28g | 10g | 6g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 20g | 0.47g |
Why I Love Egyptian Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
When I think of the perfect culinary harmony, I am immediately drawn to this Egyptian classic, Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. It’s a dish that not only bridges the tastes of different cultures but also houses a myriad of textures and flavors that simply spellbind the palate.
Traveling through Tastes
Having been raised in Atlanta, deep-rooted Southern comfort food has always held a special place in my heart. However, the bold flavors of West African cuisine – courtesy of my Nigerian lineage – have always been an essential part of my culinary journey. As such, Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce reminds me of this beautiful balance of comfort and spice, and the joy of Afro-Southern fusion.
The dish is reminiscent of the Nigerian dish, “Suya”, a popular spicy skewered meat. With a similar method of grill cooking, Suya might be the Nigerian cousin to Lamb Kofta, albeit with a much spicier profile.
Main Dish or Side?
Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a versatile dish, working well as the star of the show or a stunning side companion to a variety of dishes. The succulent lamb, which incorporates spices like cumin and coriander, pairs excellently with a buttery couscous or a crispy falafel salad.
Additional credits, of course, go to the incredible chefs who shine light on Middle Eastern cuisine. A chef of note is Yotam Ottolenghi, whose culinary style comprises myriad, bold and inventive flavors, and often serves as an inspiration in my kitchen.
This Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe is all about richness and depth, layered with a symphony of flavors. It’s one that I come back to time and time again, a dish that resonates with both my culinary heritage and my adventurous palate. So, whether for a gala Sunday brunch or a cosy family dinner, you can count on this delectable recipe to charm your guests – and your tastebuds!
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 skewers (if using wooden skewers, pre-soak in water to prevent burning on grill)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain, full-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- A pinch of ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley or mint for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by preheating the grill to medium heat, and if using wooden skewers, soak them in water to avoid any possibility of them burning on the grill.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, finely chopped onion, minced garlic cloves, chopped fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground black pepper and sea salt. Mix these together until well combined.
Step Three
Take the mixture and divide it into six equal parts. Shape each portion around the tip of the skewer, forming a length of meat approximately 1cm thick.
Step Four
Brush each lamb skewer lightly with olive oil. This will stop the meat from sticking to the grill and give a nice finish to the koftas.
Step Five
Place the lamb skewers on the grill. Grill each skewer for around ten minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is thoroughly cooked and browned.
Step Six
While the skewers are grilling, prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic cloves, fresh lemon juice, sea salt and a pinch of black pepper. Stir them all together until they are well combined.
Step Seven
Once the koftas are done, transfer them from the grill to a serving platter. Drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce over the koftas or serve it on the side.
Step Eight
Finally, for an added touch, garnish the meal with some fresh parsley or mint, and serve hot!
