Name: Greek Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 500g / 1 lb lamb mince (or beef, or 50/50 beef/lamb); 3 large garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated; 2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet, not smoked); 2 tsp mustard powder; 4 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1 1/2 tsp curry powder (not spicy, any brand); 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 skewers (optional, about 18cm/7.5″); 3/4 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek, full-fat best); 2 tbsp mayonnaise (preferably whole-egg); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp American yellow mustard (bright yellow American style); 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 1/2 tsp paprika (sweet/regular, not smoked or spicy); 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 4 Greek pita bread (pockets or flatbreads, warmed); 2 tomatoes, halved and sliced; 1/2 red onion, finely sliced or chopped; Iceberg lettuce (or other leafy greens), finely sliced

Ingredients

500g / 1 lb lamb mince (or beef, or 50/50 beef/lamb)

3 large garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated

2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet, not smoked)

2 tsp mustard powder

4 1/2 tsp dried oregano

1 1/2 tsp curry powder (mild, any brand)

3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

8 skewers (optional, about 18cm / 7.5″)

3/4 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek, full-fat best)

2 tbsp mayonnaise (preferably whole-egg)

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp American yellow mustard (bright yellow style)

1 1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 1/2 tsp paprika (sweet/regular, not smoked or spicy)

1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt

4 Greek pita bread (pockets or flatbreads, warmed)

2 tomatoes, halved and sliced

1/2 red onion, finely sliced or chopped

Iceberg lettuce (or other leafy greens), finely sliced

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix yogurt, mayonnaise, extra virgin olive oil, American yellow mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and salt to make the sauce. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while preparing the koftas.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the lamb mince with crushed garlic, paprika, mustard powder, dried oregano, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until spices are thoroughly incorporated.

Step 3: Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a log about 13cm (5″) long. Thread each log onto a skewer and flatten slightly to about 1.25cm (0.5″) thickness.

Step 4: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Cook half the koftas for 2 minutes per side until golden, then cook for 30 seconds on each short edge for color. Reduce heat if browning too quickly. Transfer cooked koftas to a plate, cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 5: Repeat cooking with the remaining koftas in the same pan, scraping out any burnt bits between batches if needed. Extra oil is usually not necessary.

Step 6: To serve, pile lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion on a plate. Place the sauce in a bowl. Warm the pita breads, then spread some sauce down the center of each pita. Add lettuce, 1 or 2 koftas (removed from skewers), tomatoes, and sprinkle with onion. Fold the pita and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of lamb and beef for a milder flavor and a slightly leaner kofta.

Make the sauce a day ahead to deepen the flavor.

Grill the koftas instead of pan-frying for a smoky taste.

Substitute iceberg lettuce with spinach or arugula for a different texture and flavor.

Use whole wheat pita for a healthier option.

Storage

Store any leftover koftas and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat koftas gently in a pan or microwave until warm. The sauce is best served cold and can be stirred before serving if it separates. Pita bread is best fresh but can be wrapped in foil and lightly warmed before use.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for these kofta kebabs?

Yes, you can substitute lamb with beef, chicken, or turkey mince, but lamb or a lamb-beef mix will provide the most authentic flavor and juiciness.

Do I need skewers to make these koftas?

Skewers are optional and mainly help shape the koftas for even cooking. You can shape them into logs or patties and cook them directly in the pan without skewers if preferred.