There’s something about the sizzling sound of spiced lamb hitting a hot grill that immediately transports me to bustling Mediterranean markets. When I first tried making Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce at home, I was amazed how this seemingly simple dish could deliver such bold flavors with minimal fuss. The juicy, aromatic lamb meatballs paired with cool, tangy yogurt sauce create a perfect balance that’s both refreshing and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests without hours in the kitchen, this recipe checks all the boxes: quick, flavor-packed, and endlessly versatile. Get ready to elevate your homemade meals with a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting!
Why choose Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce?
Juicy Perfection: Each kofta is tender and packed with fragrant spices that awaken your taste buds. Creamy Contrast: The cool yogurt sauce balances the rich lamb with a refreshing tang. Effortless Cooking: Simple ingredients and quick prep make it weeknight-friendly. Versatile Dish: Serve as a snack, main course, or party appetizer. Authentic Flavor: Captures the heart of Mediterranean street food right in your kitchen.
Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Ingredients
For the Lamb Kofta
- Ground lamb – Choose fresh, high-quality lamb for juicy, flavorful kofta.
- Onion – Finely grated to add moisture and subtle sweetness.
- Garlic cloves – Minced for that signature savory punch.
- Fresh parsley – Chopped to brighten and add herbal freshness.
- Ground cumin – Brings a warm, earthy spiced note essential to kofta.
- Ground coriander – Adds a citrusy undertone to enhance flavor layers.
- Paprika – Gives a gentle smoky depth without heat.
- Salt and pepper – Enhances all the delicious natural flavors.
- Olive oil – Helps in shaping and cooking the kofta to juicy perfection.
For the Yogurt Sauce
- Greek yogurt – Thick and creamy, it’s the perfect tangy partner for lamb.
- Lemon juice – Adds fresh brightness and balances richness.
- Garlic – A touch of minced garlic amps up the sauce’s flavor.
- Fresh mint or dill – Finely chopped to bring lively herbal notes.
- Salt – A pinch enhances all the yogurt sauce flavors.
This blend of ingredients creates the irresistible, authentic taste that makes Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce a beloved homemade classic.
How to Make Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce
For the Lamb Kofta:
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, gently mix ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly incorporated and aromatic.
- Form Koftas: Drizzle oil on your palms, then shape mixture into 8–10 uniform 2-inch logs. Press firmly so they keep their shape while cooking.
- Chill: Transfer koftas to a plate, cover, and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This resting step ensures they hold together and develop deeper flavors.
- Cook Koftas: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a touch of olive oil, then cook koftas 4–5 minutes per side until browned and 160°F internal.
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped mint (or dill), and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
- Serve and Garnish: Arrange hot koftas on a platter, spoon over yogurt sauce, and sprinkle extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a vibrant finish.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon on top for extra zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce
Fridge: Store cooked lamb kofta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the yogurt sauce separate to prevent it from getting watery.
Freezer: Freeze cooked kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once firm. They’ll last up to 3 months, perfect for quick meals.
Reheating: Thaw frozen kofta overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a hot skillet for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful.
Yogurt Sauce Storage: Keep the yogurt sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving to refresh its creamy consistency.
What to Serve with Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce?
Transform your juicy lamb kofta into a delightful feast with these flavorful accompaniments that elevate your meal experience.
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Pita Bread: Soft and warm, it’s perfect for scooping up both kofta and yogurt sauce, creating a delicious, interactive meal.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, a salad featuring diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a splash of lemon makes an ideal, light counterbalance to the rich lamb.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies provide a hearty side that enhances the earthy spices in the kofta, adding a touch of sweetness.
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Tabbouleh: This fresh, herby bulgur salad adds brightness and a burst of flavor, complementing both the lamb and the tangy yogurt sauce beautifully.
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Hummus: Creamy and nutty, a side of hummus works well as a dip, allowing for even more flavor exploration with your kofta.
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Mint Tea: A warm, fragrant mint tea serves as a refreshing beverage to cleanse the palate, enhancing the Mediterranean dining experience.
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Baklava: Finish off your meal on a sweet note with baklava, its flaky, honeyed layers contrasting delightfully with savory kofta.
Serve these sides for a complete and satisfying meal that brings the essence of Mediterranean dining right to your table.
Make Ahead Options
These Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce are a fantastic option for busy weeknights! You can prepare the kofta mixture and shape it into logs up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, follow the first three steps of the recipe, then cover the shaped koftas tightly and refrigerate. This chilling time not only helps them maintain their shape but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. As for the yogurt sauce, it can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to cook, just grill the koftas straight from the refrigerator, and serve them hot with the creamy yogurt sauce for a meal that feels fresh and vibrant, saving you precious time in the kitchen.
Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Variations
Feel free to take your Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce to delightful new heights by mixing in some of these exciting twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the lamb mixture for a flavorful heat that lingers on your palate. Plus, it makes each bite a thrilling adventure!
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Herb Boost: Swap out parsley for fresh cilantro or mint for a unique flavor profile that enhances the Mediterranean essence. Each herb brings its own character, brightening the dish!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground lamb with a mix of lentils, chickpeas, and shredded vegetables for a hearty vegetarian kofta that bursts with flavor. It’s both satisfying and nourishing!
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate lemon zest into the lamb mix for an added zing that pairs beautifully with the yogurt sauce. This small addition can elevate the freshness of the entire dish!
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Nutty Flavor: Mix in finely chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the kofta mixture for a delightful crunch and nutty undertone. This texture will surprise and delight your guests!
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Smoky Version: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to infuse the kofta with a deep, smoky flavor that adds complexity to every bite. This variation will transport you straight to a cozy barbecue!
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Fruit Infusion: Mix raisins or chopped dried apricots into the kofta for a surprising touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory lamb. It’s a sweet surprise in every mouthful!
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Creamy Alternative: Try using labneh instead of Greek yogurt in the sauce for an even creamier, tangy spread. The creamy texture will complement the kofta perfectly, making each bite utterly indulgent.
Expert Tips for Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground lamb and herbs make all the difference in flavor and juiciness for your lamb kofta with yogurt sauce.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the kofta ingredients to keep the meat tender and avoid dense, tough bites.
- Chill Before Cooking: Resting the shaped koftas in the fridge helps them hold shape and develop deeper, balanced flavors.
- Medium-High Heat: Cook koftas over medium-high heat to get a beautifully browned crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust garlic and herbs in the yogurt sauce to your taste for a personalized creamy finish.
- Serve Immediately: Lamb kofta tastes best fresh off the heat, paired with cool yogurt sauce to highlight the contrasting textures.
Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ground lamb is fresh and good for making kofta?
Choose ground lamb that is bright pink to red with no gray or dark spots. Fresh lamb should smell clean and slightly gamey, never sour or off. For the best flavor, I recommend buying from a trusted butcher or a reputable store and using it within 1 to 2 days of purchase.
What’s the best way to store leftover cooked lamb kofta and yogurt sauce?
Store the cooked lamb kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the yogurt sauce in a separate sealed dish to avoid it becoming watery or absorbing meat flavors. Before serving, give the sauce a gentle stir to restore its creamy texture.
Can I freeze the lamb kofta and still keep them juicy after reheating?
Absolutely! Freeze cooked lamb kofta by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm (about 1 hour). Then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet on medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to lock in juiciness.
What if my koftas fall apart during cooking—any tips to fix this?
It usually means the mixture wasn’t chilled enough or lacked binding moisture. Make sure to rest the shaped koftas in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before cooking, and be gentle when mixing ingredients—overmixing toughens the meat. You can also lightly add an egg or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs if your mixture feels too loose.
Is the yogurt sauce safe for pets or anyone with dairy allergies?
The traditional yogurt sauce isn’t suitable for pets or dairy-allergic individuals due to the dairy content and garlic. For a pet-friendly option, skip the sauce or use plain cooked plain yogurt without additives and no garlic. If allergies are a concern, try a coconut yogurt alternative with herbs instead, but always check for personal tolerances.
Easy Juicy Lamb Kofta with Creamy Yogurt Sauce You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, gently mix ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly incorporated and aromatic.
- Drizzle oil on your palms, then shape mixture into 8–10 uniform 2-inch logs.
- Transfer koftas to a plate, cover, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then cook koftas 4–5 minutes per side until browned and 160°F internal.
- In a small bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped mint (or dill), and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
- Arrange hot koftas on a platter, spoon over yogurt sauce, and sprinkle extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a vibrant finish.
