EvanSeeker
Culinary Explorer
Hey, meat lovers! Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor? Try out this Spiced Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki Sauce—juicy, spiced lamb meatballs paired with a cool and creamy cucumber sauce. Perfect for a flavorful dinner or an appetizer spread!
Spiced Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki Sauce
Spiced Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or mint for a different twist)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Kofta: Shape the lamb mixture into oval or cylindrical meatballs, about 1.5 inches long. You can also mold them onto skewers if you prefer.
- Cook the Kofta: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kofta meatballs and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they’re nicely browned and cooked through.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: While the kofta is cooking, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill (or mint), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Arrange the spiced lamb kofta on a platter and serve with the tzatziki sauce on the side. Great with pita bread, fresh veggies, or as part of a Mediterranean spread.