Mediterranean Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce & Pita

Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Mediterranean
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6

🥩 Ingredients

For the Lamb Kofta:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (or half lamb and half beef for a milder flavor)

• 1 small onion, finely grated

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional but traditional)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

  

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• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped (optional)

For Serving:

• Warm pita bread or flatbreads

• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions

  

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• Fresh herbs (mint, parsley)

• Lemon wedges

🔥 Instructions

1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
   Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined but do not overmix — you want it tender, not dense.

2. Shape the Kofta
   Divide the mixture into 8–10 portions.
   Roll each portion into an oval shape around a skewer (metal or soaked wooden).
   If not using skewers, form into small oblong patties.
   Refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.

3. Cook the Kofta

   • Grilling method: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush koftas lightly with olive oil. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.

   • Pan-sear or oven method: Cook in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally. Or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.

4. Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and herbs.
   Chill until ready to serve.

5. Assemble and Serve
   Serve the koftas with warm pita bread, yogurt sauce, and fresh salad toppings.
   Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

🍋 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hummus, baba ganoush, or tabbouleh on the side for a full Mediterranean platter.

• Use the kofta to make wraps — stuff into pita with lettuce, tomato, onion, and yogurt sauce.

• Pair with roasted vegetables or herbed couscous for a hearty dinner.

  

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• For a lighter meal, serve the kofta over a bed of greens with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.

💡 Tips & Variations

• Substitute lamb with ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a leaner option.

• Add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet.

• For extra depth, mix in a teaspoon of sumac or baharat spice blend.

• You can prepare the kofta mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

• Grill over charcoal for authentic smoky flavor.

🌍 Mediterranean Story

Lamb kofta — or kebab kofta — is a beloved dish that spans the entire Mediterranean and Middle Eastern world, from Lebanon and Greece to Turkey and Morocco. The term “kofta” comes from the Persian word kufta, meaning “to grind,” referring to the minced meat that’s spiced, shaped, and grilled to perfection.

These savory skewers represent everything that makes Mediterranean cuisine so special: aromatic spices, olive oil, and a balance of richness and freshness. The cooling garlic yogurt sauce — known as tzatziki in Greece or labneh bi toum in the Levant — cuts through the savory intensity of the lamb, creating harmony in every bite.

In the United States, Mediterranean Lamb Kofta has become a restaurant and backyard grill favorite — a healthier, flavor-packed alternative to burgers or steaks. High in protein and rich in spices, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced, satisfying both the heart and the soul.

Every bite is smoky, juicy, and fragrant with herbs and spice — the taste of ancient traditions reimagined for modern tables. 🥙🔥✨