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Flavorful Turkish Lamb Kofta Kebabs Recipe with Creamy Tahini Yogurt Drizzle

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This Turkish lamb kofta kebabs recipe features juicy, spiced lamb kebabs paired with a creamy, nutty tahini yogurt drizzle, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (preferably 80% lean for juiciness)
  • 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing before grilling)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated
  • Salt to taste
  • Water to thin (if needed)
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh mint or parsley, sumac or smoked paprika sprinkle, warm pita bread or flatbreads

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly by hand.
  2. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Wet your hands slightly and mold each portion around a skewer, forming a uniform sausage shape about 4-5 inches long and 1 inch thick.
  3. Optional: Chill the skewers in the fridge for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Add water a teaspoon at a time to reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Brush the kofta lightly with olive oil.
  6. Cook the kebabs for 4-5 minutes per side until evenly charred and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes after cooking. Drizzle generously with the tahini yogurt sauce and garnish with chopped mint or parsley and a sprinkle of sumac or smoked paprika if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep it tender. Finely grate onion and garlic for moisture and flavor. Wet hands when shaping kofta to prevent sticking. Use medium-high heat for a good char without burning. Let kebabs rest after cooking to redistribute juices. Optional chilling step helps maintain shape. Can substitute ground beef, turkey, or chicken if desired. Tahini yogurt drizzle adds a refreshing balance and is highly recommended.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkish lamb kofta, lamb kebabs, tahini yogurt drizzle, grilled lamb, easy lamb recipe, Mediterranean kebabs, ground lamb recipe

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/flavorful-turkish-lamb-kofta-kebabs-recipe-with-creamy-tahini-yogurt-drizzle/