Savor the rich and aromatic flavors of Turkish Lamb Köfte, deliciously spiced meatballs made from ground lamb, fresh herbs, and a blend of traditional spices.
These juicy köfte are perfect for grilling or baking and make for a satisfying meal that’s great for gatherings or family dinners.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve Turkish Lamb Köfte hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon for an added burst of flavor. They pair wonderfully with Cilantro Lime Rice, Hummus, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.
For a complete meal, consider serving them with warm pita bread or flatbreads and a side of Tzatziki Sauce for dipping.
Tips and Notes
- Lamb: Use ground lamb for the best flavor. You can also mix in a bit of ground beef or pork if you prefer a milder taste.
- Spices: Traditional spices for köfte include cumin, paprika, garlic, and black pepper. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste or add some crushed red pepper for heat.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add brightness to the köfte mixture. Chop them finely and mix them in for enhanced flavor.
- Cooking Method: Preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, shape the köfte into oval patties and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. If baking, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
- Storage: Store any leftover köfte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
Enjoy the flavorful and savory experience of Turkish Lamb Köfte as a highlight of your culinary adventures!
Turkish Lamb Köfte
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 small onion - finely diced
- 2 cloves of garlic - minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil for grilling
- Chopped parsley for garnish - optional
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat or heat a grill pan over medium heat on the stovetop.
- Take a small handful of the lamb mixture and roll it into a ball. Thread the ball onto a skewer and gently press it down to flatten it into a small patty. Repeat with the remaining lamb mixture.
- Lightly brush the grill or grill pan with olive oil to prevent the köfte from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the köfte are slightly charred and cooked through.
- Serve the köfte hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.