Lamb Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering recipe for lamb kofta kebabs. Bursting with aromatic herbs and spices, these tender and juicy kofta kebabs are a true delight for the senses. The combination of ground lamb, fragrant spices and a burst of acidity from the onion creates a perfect harmony of flavors that will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.

According to food Blogger Ksenia Prints of At the Immigrant's Table, these kebabs are expertly seasoned with a unique blend of spices, lending a distinctive and refreshing taste to each bite. Baked in the oven, these skewered delights offer a satisfying crunch on the outside, while maintaining a succulent and juicy center. Whether you're hosting friends for a Mediterranean dinner or simply craving a taste of Greece, these lamb kofta kebabs are a must-try culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.

To prepare these Greek-style lamb kofta kebabs, you'll need the following ingredients: ground lamb, finely diced onion, freshly chopped cilantro, bread crumbs, cumin, paprika, nutmeg, cayenne, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and an egg for binding the mixture.

The seasonings are designed to give the kebabs a fragrant, sweet and earthy flavor that will go very well with the acidity of lemon or yogurt, so you may consider picking up optional lemon wedges and tzatziki sauce for serving. You'll also need bamboo skewers for grilling.

In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix ground lamb, finely diced onion, freshly chopped cilantro, bread crumbs, cumin, paprika, nutmeg, cayenne, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and egg. Once combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for approximately 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it enables the flavors to blend harmoniously, resulting in an enhanced taste for the kebabs. The marination process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a more flavorful and delicious outcome, and kebabs that will stick together and not fall off the skewers.

While meat mixture is marinating, soak the bamboo skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning during grilling (the skewers will end up charring slightly along the edges; you can remove the kebabs off the skewer before serving).

Grab a ¼-cup portion of the lamb mixture that has been marinated and shape it into an elongated sausage form, ensuring it encases a soaked bamboo skewer. Slide in the skewer in the middle of the kebab, and press the mixture around the skewer to secure it in place. Repeat this process with the remaining lamb mixture and skewers until all the kebabs are formed.

Molding the marinated lamb around the skewers creates an elongated shape that will hold together during grilling. This technique allows for easy handling and even cooking, ensuring that each kebab maintains its integrity and delivers a delightful eating experience.

When your kebabs are ready, preheat your oven to the grill setting. Top a baking sheet with a cookie rack, if available, or cover with aluminum foil. This helps grill the kebabs evenly on every side. Arrange the lamb kofta kebabs on the prepared cookie rack or foil sheet and transfer them into the oven under the grill setting.

Grill the kebabs for approximately 8 to 10 minutes on one side, or until they acquire a delectably crisp exterior. With the help of tongs, carefully flip the kebabs over and continue grilling for 5 to 8 minutes on the other side, until they are thoroughly cooked and possess a lovely golden brown color.

Once done, remove the kebabs from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This resting period enables the juices to redistribute and ensures optimal tenderness and flavor.

For a perfect Greek meal, serve the lamb kofta kebabs with lemon wedges and tzatziki sauce, if desired. You can enjoy the succulent and flavorful kebabs as a main dish or serve them alongside pita bread, Greek rice, lemon potatoes and a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.