Print

Flavorful Moroccan Spiced Lamb Kofta Skewers Recipe with Easy Harissa Yogurt Dip

moroccan spiced lamb kofta skewers - featured image

These Moroccan spiced lamb kofta skewers are juicy and flavorful, paired perfectly with a creamy, slightly spicy harissa yogurt dip. Ready in under 40 minutes, they are ideal for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (slightly fatty blend recommended)
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • 2 tbsp harissa paste
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix gently but thoroughly by hand.
  2. Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions. Mold each portion around a skewer into a 4-5 inch long oval or sausage shape. Wet hands slightly if mixture is sticky.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  4. Place skewers on grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F/71°C). Reduce heat if skewers blacken too fast.
  5. While kofta cooks, mix Greek yogurt, harissa paste, lemon juice, honey, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Remove skewers from grill and let rest a few minutes. Serve warm with harissa yogurt dip.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep kofta tender. Grate onion finely for moisture. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. Soak bamboo skewers for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Harissa yogurt dip tastes better if chilled for at least 30 minutes. Can be cooked in oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: Moroccan lamb kofta, lamb skewers, harissa yogurt dip, grilled lamb, Middle Eastern spices, easy lamb recipe, barbecue skewers