Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers

Name: Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g ground lamb; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper, to taste; Skewers (wooden or metal); 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt, to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The blend of freshly minced lamb and spices creates an aromatic thrill that fills my kitchen and tantalizes my taste buds. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the combination of herbs, garlic, and a touch of chili heat. Grilling them adds a delightful smokiness, making these skewers irresistibly delicious. I always serve them with a yogurt sauce, which complements the spices perfectly, creating a balanced dish everyone devours.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:49:27.513Z

When I first tried making Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers, I was amazed at how the simple mixture of ground lamb and spices transformed my usual grilling routine. The key is to let the mixture rest for a bit before shaping them onto skewers; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully. I also discovered that using skewers made from soaked bamboo adds a nice char without transferring too much heat to the meat.

Over time, I fine-tuned my approach, experimenting with different spice blends and herbs. Each attempt has brought me closer to the perfect recipe, with a bit of chili for a kick and fresh mint for brightness. I love serving these skewers with a cooling yogurt sauce that balances the spices impeccably. It truly elevates the dish to something special!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy, flavorful lamb infused with aromatic spices
Perfect for grilling, making them great for BBQs
Quick and easy preparation for a weeknight treat

Getting the Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture for your kofta is crucial. A good mixture should be moist but not overly wet, which allows the kofta to hold its shape during grilling. If the mixture feels too wet, consider adding a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or soaked and squeezed bread to absorb excess moisture without compromising flavor.

Make sure to mix everything well, but avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough kofta. You're looking for a harmonized blend where the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the lamb. When shaping onto skewers, press firmly but not too hard; you want them packed well enough to hold but not so tight that they become dense.

Flavor Enhancements

For a deeper flavor profile, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a touch of allspice. These spices can add a new dimension to the traditional kofta taste. Pairing lamb with fresh herbs like mint and parsley not only brightens up the dish but also balances the richness of the lamb. Don't hesitate to experiment with the spice levels, adjusting cayenne pepper to suit your preferred heat.

Serving the kofta with other accompaniments can elevate your dish. Consider pairing it with a simple salad made of cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Adding grilled vegetables further enhances the charred flavor profile while adding a vibrant color to your platter.

Ingredients

For the Kofta

500g ground lamb
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

For the Yogurt Sauce

1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Kofta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Shape the Kofta

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them onto the skewers, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together while cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

Prepare the Yogurt Sauce

While the koftas are cooking, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl until well blended.

Serve

Serve the kofta skewers hot with the yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the lamb mixture for a couple of hours in the fridge before grilling. Also, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling prevents them from burning.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These kofta skewers can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to meld, making them even more delicious. Just ensure they are tightly covered or wrapped to avoid drying out.

If you want to make a larger batch, you can also freeze shaped kofta skewers before cooking. Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, cook from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to your grilling time for even cooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, kofta can fall apart on the grill; this usually indicates too much moisture in the mixture. If this happens, add breadcrumbs or more finely chopped herbs to absorb excess moisture and strengthen the binding. Also, ensure your skewers are securely packed to maintain structure when cooking.

Another common issue is uneven cooking; make sure your grill is preheated adequately. A hot grill sears the outside, locking in moisture. If you notice the skewers browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to cook the inside evenly without burning the outside.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for lamb, but the flavor will be different.

→ How do I know when the kofta is done cooking?

The kofta is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) or is no longer pink in the center.

→ Can I make the kofta in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the kofta mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it until you're ready to grill.

→ What's the best way to serve these skewers?

They are delicious served with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and the yogurt sauce for dipping.