Turkish-Style Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Turkish-Style Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these tantalizing Turkish-style lamb kofta kebabs. Succulent ground lamb is expertly blended with finely minced onion, robust garlic, and aromatic spices such as cumin and paprika, alongside refreshing fresh mint and parsley. Formed into torpedo shapes and threaded onto skewers, these kofta are then grilled to perfection, developing a beautifully charred exterior while remaining incredibly tender and juicy inside. Ideal for a summer barbecue or a weeknight grill, these kebabs deliver an authentic taste experience with every bite. Serve them piping hot directly from the grill with cool yogurt sauce and warm pita bread for an unforgettable meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
- Preparation time
- 25 min
- Cooking time
- 12 min
- Total time
- 37 min
- Servings
- 8
Instructions
Prepare Kofta Mixture
- 1In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, fresh mint, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- 2Gently mix the ingredients with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the kofta tough. For best results, chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm it up.
Form and Skewer Kofta
- 1If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- 2Divide the lamb mixture into 8 equal portions. Take one portion and form it around a skewer into an elongated, sausage-like shape, approximately 5-6 inches long and 1 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture and skewers.
Grill Kofta
- 1Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- 2Place the kofta kebabs on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through, have nice grill marks, and are slightly charred on the exterior. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- 3Remove the cooked kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve
- 1Serve the Turkish-style lamb kofta kebabs hot, accompanied by warm pita bread and a dollop of cool yogurt sauce.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 350 kcal
- Protein
- 25 g
- Fat
- 25 g
- Carbs
- 5 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Carbs | 5 g |
Tips
- Grating the onion finely helps it incorporate smoothly into the kofta mixture, ensuring even flavor distribution without large chunks.
- Do not overcrowd the grill. Cook kebabs in batches if necessary to maintain consistent grill temperature and achieve a good sear.
- A simple yogurt sauce with garlic, cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon juice perfectly complements the rich lamb flavor.