Spiced Lamb Kofta with Mint-Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

• •1.5 lb Ground Lamb
• •0.8 cup Onion (finely chopped)
• •0.8 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
• •3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• •1.5 tsp Ground Cumin
• •1.5 tsp Ground Coriander
• •0.8 tsp Paprika
• •0.4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional)
• •1 tsp Salt (to taste)
• •0.5 tsp Black Pepper (to taste)
• •1.5 cup Plain Yogurt
• •0.8 cup Cucumber (grated and excess water squeezed out)
• •0.4 cup Fresh Mint (chopped)
• •1.5 tbsp Lemon Juice
• •2 tbsp Olive Oil

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, onion, parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. 2

   Shape the mixture into small, oval-shaped kofta. Aim for about 1.5-2 inches in length.

3. 3

   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. 4

   Add the kofta to the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

5. 5

   While the kofta are cooking, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the plain yogurt, grated cucumber, mint, and lemon juice. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. 6

   Serve the kofta hot, with a generous dollop of the mint-cucumber yogurt sauce. Garnish with extra mint leaves, if desired. Serve with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad.

Chef's Tips

• 💡For best results, use good quality ground lamb with some fat content for a more flavorful and tender kofta.
• 💡Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the kofta; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• 💡The mint-cucumber yogurt sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
• 💡Serve with warm pita bread, hummus, and a fresh tomato and cucumber salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.