There are certain recipes that bring people together, and Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is one of them. Juicy, perfectly seasoned lamb skewers paired with a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce create the kind of dish that feels both comforting and exotic at the same time.
Originating from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, koftas are traditionally made with ground meat, onions, herbs, and spices, shaped into skewers or patties, and cooked over fire for that unmistakable char. The garlic yogurt sauce balances the richness of the lamb, adding freshness and tang.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a family dinner, or simply want to try something new for your weekly meal rotation, this recipe is versatile, impressive, and surprisingly easy once you know the steps.
In this post, I’ll walk you through every detail: the ingredients, preparation, cooking methods, tips, serving ideas, variations, and even storage advice. By the end, you’ll feel confident making Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt at home, even if it’s your very first time.
What Makes Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Special?
- Bold, fragrant spices – cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, and chili flakes create warmth and depth.
- Balanced flavors – the richness of lamb pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy garlic yogurt.
- Versatility – you can grill, roast, or pan-sear the koftas.
- Perfect for gatherings – skewers make them fun and easy to serve.
- Healthy yet indulgent – protein-rich lamb with probiotic-rich yogurt makes this dish nourishing as well as satisfying.
Ingredients for Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
The secret to a great kofta lies in balancing the right spices, fresh herbs, and juicy meat. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need.
For the Kofta
- 500 g ground lamb (ideally with 20% fat for juiciness)
- 1 small onion (grated, excess juice squeezed out to prevent sogginess)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp parsley (fresh, chopped)
- 2 tbsp coriander/cilantro (fresh, chopped)
- 1 tsp cumin (ground)
- 1 tsp coriander (ground)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 0.5 tsp cinnamon (ground, for warmth)
- 0.5 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- Skewers (metal or wooden, soaked in water if wooden)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 250 g Greek yogurt (thick, creamy)
- 2 garlic cloves (grated into a fine paste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp salt
- Fresh herbs (mint or parsley, optional, for garnish)
Optional Garnishes
- Warm flatbreads or pita
- Sliced cucumber, tomato, and red onion salad
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh herbs like parsley, coriander, or mint
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and all the spices. Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the koftas dense instead of juicy.
Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to blend and makes shaping easier.
Step 2: Shape the Koftas
Lightly oil your hands and divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion around a skewer, shaping it into a log or oval about 10–12 cm long. Press the meat gently but firmly onto the skewer so it doesn’t fall apart during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Koftas
You have three cooking options:
- Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high (200°C). Brush koftas with olive oil and grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until evenly charred.
- Oven Roasting: Preheat oven to 200°C. Place koftas on a lined baking tray, brush with olive oil, and roast for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway.
- Stovetop Pan/Grill Pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Cook koftas for 10–12 minutes, rotating for even browning.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic paste, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth. Add chopped mint or parsley if desired. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Arrange the hot koftas on a platter with bowls of garlic yogurt. Garnish with herbs and lemon wedges. Serve with warm flatbreads and a fresh salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Koftas
- Choose the right meat: Lamb with 20% fat ensures juiciness. Lean meat can make koftas dry.
- Grate the onion: Instead of chopping, grating ensures even distribution and flavor without chunks.
- Chill before shaping: Cold meat is easier to work with and sticks to skewers better.
- Oil the skewers: If using metal skewers, lightly oiling them helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or grill: Space them out so they cook evenly and develop a nice char.
Variations of Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
- Beef Kofta: Substitute ground beef for lamb, using the same spices.
- Chicken Kofta: Use ground chicken with a touch more olive oil to keep it moist.
- Vegetarian Kofta: Swap meat for lentils, chickpeas, or grated zucchini mixed with breadcrumbs.
- Spice Adjustments: Add cayenne for heat or nutmeg for warmth.
- Sauce Alternatives: Try tahini sauce, hummus, or a cucumber tzatziki instead of garlic yogurt.
What to Serve with Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Grains: Basmati rice, couscous, or bulgur.
- Vegetables: Grilled peppers, roasted eggplant, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.
- Breads: Flatbreads, pita, or lavash.
- Extras: Pickled onions, olives, and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses for a gourmet touch.
Storage and Meal Prep
- Refrigeration: Store leftover koftas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet.
- Freezing: Shape raw koftas, freeze on a tray until solid, then store in freezer bags. Cook from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes extra.
- Sauce: Garlic yogurt lasts up to 2 days in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare yet feels gourmet.
- Packed with authentic Middle Eastern flavors.
- Family-friendly and customizable.
- Perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is one of those dishes that manages to be rustic yet elegant at the same time. With bold spices, juicy meat, and refreshing garlic yogurt, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. Once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation.
Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Recipe
Description
This Spiced Lamb Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines juicy, flavorful lamb skewers with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Seasoned with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, these koftas are grilled or pan-seared to perfection, making them an ideal dish for dinner, gatherings, or summer cookouts. Paired with garlic yogurt and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers bold flavors while staying simple and approachable.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Kofta
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
For Serving (Optional Garnishes)
Instructions
Prepare the Lamb Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion (with excess juice squeezed out), garlic, parsley, coriander, and all the spices. Mix well using your hands until everything is evenly combined but avoid overmixing, which can make the koftas tough. Cover the bowl and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld.
Shape the Koftas
- After resting, lightly oil your hands and divide the lamb mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a skewer into oval or cylindrical logs, about 10–12 cm long. Press gently to secure the meat to the skewer.
Cook the Koftas
- Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (200°C). Brush koftas lightly with olive oil and grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on the outside and cooked through.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 200°C. Place koftas on a lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook koftas for 10–12 minutes, turning to ensure even cooking.
Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Stir until smooth. If desired, mix in fresh mint or parsley for extra freshness. Chill until ready to serve.
Assemble and Serve
- Place cooked koftas on a serving platter. Drizzle with garlic yogurt or serve the sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and salad. Pair with warm flatbreads or pita for a complete meal.
Note
Storage: Store leftover koftas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven. The garlic yogurt sauce keeps for 2 days in the fridge.
Variations:
- Replace lamb with beef or chicken (adjust cooking time slightly).
- Add finely chopped chili or jalapeño for extra heat.
- Swap garlic yogurt for tahini sauce for a nutty variation.
Serving Tip: Serve as wraps in pita bread with salad and sauce for a street-food-style meal.
