UAE Lamb Kofta with Tahini-Yogurt Sauce
Tender and flavorful lamb kofta, seasoned with a blend of aromatic Middle Eastern spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy, tangy tahini-yogurt sauce. This dish is a staple in Emirati cuisine, often enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Ground lamb(80/20 lean to fat ratio for juiciness)
- 1 small Onion(grated)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tbsp Cumin powder
- 1 tbsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Cardamom powder
- 1 tsp Sumac(for tanginess)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.5 tsp Cinnamon powder
- 0.5 tsp Chili flakes(optional)
- 3 tbsp Fresh parsley(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(for kofta mixture and grilling)
- 1 cup Plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp Tahini
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 clove Garlic clove(minced, for sauce)
- 4 pieces Pita bread or flatbread(for serving)
- Fresh herbs(for garnish)
- Sliced onions(for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cardamom, sumac, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, chili flakes (if using), and chopped parsley. Drizzle in 1 tbsp of olive oil and mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 2
While the kofta mixture is chilling, prepare the tahini-yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, tahini, minced garlic, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt to taste. Set aside.
- 3
Divide the kofta mixture into 4-6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a log or patty around skewers (if using). If not using skewers, ensure they are uniformly shaped for even cooking.
- 4
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the kofta for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- 5
Serve the grilled lamb kofta hot with pita bread or flatbread. Drizzle generously with the tahini-yogurt sauce and garnish with fresh herbs and sliced onions.
💡 Tip: Serve with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, marinate the kofta mixture overnight.
- ✓Ensure the lamb has a good fat content for a more tender and juicy result.
- ✓If grilling, use skewers to make handling the kofta easier.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped mint to the kofta mixture for a fresh twist.
- Serve with a side of hummus or baba ghanoush.
- For a spicier kick, increase the chili flakes or add finely chopped green chilies to the kofta mixture.