I was so excited when my friend Aisha invited me over for dinner last week and served these incredible Lamb Keftas. The blend of Middle Eastern spices permeating the savory, juicy lamb was out of this world. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew this was a recipe I had to try making myself.
Aisha was kind enough to share her family’s traditional Lamb Kefta recipe with me to pass on to all of you. As she explained, keftas are basically like a seasoned lamb meatball or patty popular in many Middle Eastern cuisines. Her version uses cumin, coriander, parsley and other warm spices that make the lamb flavor really sing.
Once she shared the secret spice blend, I couldn’t wait to give it a test run. These Lamb Keftas came together so easily. All I did was mix the ground meat with the spices, form into patties, and pan fry or grill until nicely browned. In just minutes, my kitchen was filled with the inviting aromas of cumin and coriander as the keftas sizzled away.
Lamb Keftas recipes
Lamb Keftas
Equipment
Ingredients
- 350 g ground lamb
- 350 g ground veal
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 cup parsley minced, plus 1 tablespoon for garnish
- 1 1/4 teaspoons allspice
- 3/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the lamb and veal with the onion, garlic, parsley and spices until well combined. Shape oblong keftas, about 2-3 inches in length.
- Preheat oven to 425 F. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. In batches, sear the keftas on all sides till browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Transfer keftas to a baking sheet and place in the hot oven for 3-5 minutes to make sure the meatballs are cooked through. Top with toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley. Serve with hummus and tahini sauce.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Baking Lamb Keftas in the Oven
To craft mouthwatering oven-baked Lamb Keftas, commence by preheating your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C), while simultaneously lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or giving it a light grease to prevent any unwanted stickiness. In a mixing bowl, summon the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper, amalgamating them with gentle finesse using your hands, ensuring an even distribution of the aromatic spices without overworking the mixture. With deft hands, shape the seasoned lamb mixture around each skewer, forming delicate cylindrical keftas, and nestle them lovingly onto the prepared baking sheet. As the keftas await their transformation in the oven, anoint them with a gentle brush of olive oil, inviting a golden crispness to their exterior. Slide the sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the keftas to bake for a tantalizing 20-25 minutes until they reach a succulent internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Upon emerging from their oven sanctuary, grant the Lamb Keftas a moment of reprieve to rest before serving alongside your chosen accompaniments – whether it be fluffy pita bread, tangy tzatziki sauce, or a vibrant fresh salad.
Tips for making Lamb Keftas
Serving Suggestions
To complement the aromatic and flavorful Lamb Keftas, consider serving them alongside a refreshing Kohlrabi Salad. The crispness of the kohlrabi, paired with the tangy dressing and vibrant herbs, provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the lamb. This light and refreshing salad not only adds a burst of color to the plate but also offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the savory keftas. The combination of textures and flavors creates a harmonious dining experience that is sure to impress.
Cooking Tips
First and foremost, let’s talk about the meat. Choosing high-quality ground lamb is essential to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that we all crave. Opt for lamb with a good balance of meat and fat, as this will ensure juiciness and flavor in every bite.
When it comes to seasoning, don’t be afraid to get adventurous! While traditional spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika form the backbone of the flavor profile, feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to tailor the keftas to your taste preferences. Personally, I love adding a pinch of cinnamon or a hint of chili flakes for an extra layer of complexity.
As you mix the lamb mixture, remember to handle it with care. Use your hands to gently combine the ingredients, being careful not to overwork the meat. This will help maintain a tender texture in the finished keftas and prevent them from becoming tough or dense.
When shaping the keftas around the skewers, take your time to ensure that each one is evenly sized and shaped. This not only makes for a more visually appealing presentation but also ensures that they cook evenly in the oven.
Finally, don’t forget about the cooking method. While grilling is the traditional way to cook keftas, baking them in the oven is a convenient and equally delicious alternative. Just be sure to brush them lightly with olive oil before baking to help them achieve that irresistible golden crust.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lamb Keftas
- Can I use other meats for keftas, or is lamb a must? While lamb is traditional and adds a unique flavor, you can certainly use ground beef or a mixture of beef and lamb if you prefer.
- What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook keftas on a stovetop? Absolutely! You can cook keftas in a skillet or on a stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Just ensure they are cooked through.
- How can I store leftover Lamb Keftas? If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked keftas for up to 3 months.
- Can I prepare Lamb Keftas in advance for a party? Yes, you can shape the keftas in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. This makes party preparation more convenient.
- Can I make these keftas without a food processor? Absolutely! While a food processor can make the process quicker, you can finely chop the onion and garlic by hand and mix the ingredients in a bowl.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of crafting Lamb Keftas is not just about following a recipe – it’s about infusing each step with passion, creativity, and a touch of personal flair. As you embark on your culinary adventure, remember to choose high-quality ingredients, experiment with seasonings, handle the meat with care, and embrace alternative cooking methods to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a weeknight feast, the joy of creating delicious food is truly unparalleled. For more inspiring recipes and culinary tips, be sure to visit Food And Meal at foodandmeal.com. Here’s to many more delightful cooking adventures ahead!
I'm Tracy F Hilton, a devoted culinary professional shaped by a mix of natural aptitude and refined skills from a top culinary school. In the dynamic kitchen environment, I'm a catalyst for seamless operations and timely, high-quality dish preparation. My culinary creations are a blend of art and skill, offering visually and gustatorily delightful experiences. A learner at heart, I'm continuously honing my craft, embracing new techniques, and culinary innovations. My positive, collaborative nature is amplified in fast-paced settings, showcasing my commitment to team efficiency and guest satisfaction. Each dish I present is a meticulous blend of tradition and innovation, promising an unforgettable dining experience that marries taste, aroma, and aesthetic appeal in perfect harmony. Join me on a gastronomic journey where each bite encapsulates a rich, evolving narrative of flavors and culinary artistry.