Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers

Name: Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, grated; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: WorldTaste Adventures

I absolutely love grilling these Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers on warm evenings. The flavors of the spices meld perfectly with the juicy lamb, creating a dish that's both savory and satisfying. As the skewers cook, the aroma wafts through the air, making everyone eager to dig in. I sometimes serve them with a cooling yogurt sauce, which complements the spice beautifully. If you're looking to impress your guests with a unique dish, these skewers will definitely do the trick!

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:53:27.555Z

When I first tried my hand at making Spicy Lamb Kofta Skewers, I was amazed by how easy it was to create such a flavorful dish. I experimented with different spices until I found the perfect balance of warmth and zest. The result was a tender, juicy kofta that’s bursting with flavor. I've made these for family gatherings and they always disappear in no time!

One of my favorite parts about this recipe is the versatility it offers. You can adjust the spice levels according to your preference and pair it with various dips or sides. I recommend going for a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce to balance out the spices, adding another layer of flavor!

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Bold spices that awaken your palate
Juicy lamb that keeps you coming back for more
Perfect for outdoor gatherings or cozy dinners

Key Techniques for Perfect Kofta

To achieve the ideal texture for your kofta skewers, it's crucial to balance the fat content in the lamb. Ground lamb typically has a good amount of fat, which keeps the kofta juicy while cooking. If you're using leaner lamb, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or some finely chopped lamb fat to ensure your skewers remain moist and flavorful. Avoid over-mixing the meat mixture; just combine until the spices are incorporated, as too much handling can lead to tough skewers.

Shaping the kofta around the skewers can be tricky. Wet your hands lightly before forming the meat into elongated shapes to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1 inch; this allows for even cooking. When grilling, ensure the skewers are well spaced on the grill to maintain proper airflow and avoid steaming. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Choosing and Preparing Ingredients

The spices in this recipe are what make these kofta skewers truly special. Ground cumin and coriander provide a warm, earthy flavor, while cayenne adds just the right amount of heat. If you’d like to adjust the spice level, feel free to increase the cayenne or substitute it with a milder paprika. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also be added to the mixture for an extra burst of flavor, so don’t hesitate to experiment based on your preferences.

For the yogurt sauce, using full-fat yogurt will yield a creamier texture that complements the spiced lamb beautifully. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great alternative that still maintains the sauce's creaminess while adding a tangy kick. Incorporating fresh mint into the sauce can also enhance the cooling effect, especially against the spicy kofta. Remember to let the sauce chill for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

For the Kofta

1 lb ground lamb
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Yogurt Sauce

1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt to taste

Combine the ingredients and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Kofta Mix

In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, and all the spices. Mix well until fully combined. Shape the mixture into elongated meatballs around skewers.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kofta skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.

Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a bowl, mix yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Serve

Serve the kofta skewers hot with the yogurt sauce on the side and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your flavorful skewers with your favorite side dishes!

Pro Tips

To keep the kofta moist, avoid overcooking them. If you prefer, you can bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While the kofta skewers are delicious on their own, consider presenting them on a platter with fresh pita bread, sliced tomatoes, and red onion for a vibrant, colorful meal. You can also add a simple salad with cucumbers and parsley dressed with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast. I like to serve the skewers over a bed of couscous seasoned with herbs from my garden, which adds both texture and flavor to the dish.

For a more complete meal, pair the skewers with roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Drizzling them with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt before roasting at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes enhances their natural sweetness and provides a delightful balance to the spices in the kofta.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing the kofta mixture a day in advance can significantly enhance the flavors. Simply mix everything together and refrigerate it covered until you’re ready to grill. This time allows the spices to infuse even deeper into the meat. If you're hosting a gathering, consider forming the skewers ahead of time and storing them in the fridge until you're ready to grill, which streamlines your cooking process.

Cooked kofta skewers store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, try placing them back on a hot grill or under the broiler for a few minutes to regain that delicious char. If you'd like to freeze them, do so before grilling; place the shaped skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the grilling time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?

Yes, ground beef works well, but the flavor will be different. Choose a fatty cut for the best results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I make the kofta ahead of time?

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

→ What sides go well with kofta skewers?

Fresh salad, pita bread, or a rice dish are great accompaniments to these skewers.