Ground Lamb Meatball Kebabs, known as “kofta” in various cultures, boast a rich culinary heritage that spans regions from the Mediterranean to South Asia. These kebabs are a delightful fusion of flavors and spices, showcasing the versatility and succulence of ground lamb. The history of ground lamb kebabs can be traced back to ancient times when early civilizations discovered the art of combining minced meat with spices and herbs, transforming humble ingredients into exquisite delicacies.
The origins of kofta likely stem from the Middle East, where skilled cooks utilized ground meats, particularly lamb, to create flavorful and easily digestible dishes. Over time, this culinary tradition spread across continents, evolving into distinct regional variations. In Mediterranean cuisines, such as Greek and Turkish, lamb kofta kebabs are typically seasoned with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and mint, imparting a robust yet refreshing taste.
In South Asian cuisine, particularly in countries like India and Pakistan, lamb kofta kebabs are celebrated as a beloved street food staple of festive gatherings. Here, the meat is often seasoned with garam masala, ginger, garlic, and cilantro, resulting in a spicier and aromatic profile.
Our recipe for Ground Lamb Meatball Kebabs marries these diverse influences, featuring a tantalizing blend of spices that harmonize beautifully with the richness of ground lamb. These kebabs are perfect for grilling, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that reflects centuries of culinary tradition.
Ingredients for Ground Lamb Meatball Kebabs
- 1 pound TBS ground lamb
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of finely minced onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne pepper
- Chopped vegetables for kebabs as desired
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix all the ingredients well.
- Form the ground meat mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Press the meet firmly together.
- Place all the balls into an airtight container and refrigerate for one hour.
- Prepare your grill with oil and heat it to medium-high.
- Place the balls on skewers with your choice of sliced peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, etc, as desired. Grill kebabs for 4 to 5 minutes per side until cooked.
- Serve with Tzatziki sauce and your favorite side, like rice or corn.
Make a stop at The Butcher Shop part of your grocery shopping routine.
We have such excellent, fresh meat and produce available to us locally! The Butcher Shop is your one-stop shop for locally sourced meats and produce from farms right here in Southern Oregon. At TBS, you’ll find the perfect cut of meat for your meal, plus fresh-baked loaves of bread, fresh fruit and vegetables, local wine and beers, and even quality food specifically for your canine. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.