Lamb koftas are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, known for their aromatic blend of spices and succulent texture. When cooked to perfection, they offer a delightful experience for the taste buds, and using an air fryer simplifies the process while ensuring the koftas remain juicy and flavourful. This recipe provides you with an effortless way to incorporate these delightful spiced lamb koftas into your home-cooked meals. Perfect for a family dinner or a weekend treat, these koftas can be served as a main dish or paired with a variety of sides for a complete meal. Follow along to learn how to make these delicious treats, ideal for air frying.
Ingredients
- 500g minced lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (optional)
- 50g breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh coriander or mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the minced lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, allspice, and chilli flakes. Mix well to incorporate the spices evenly.
- Add the breadcrumbs and beaten egg to the mixture, and season with salt and pepper. Using your hands, mix until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together.
- With damp hands, shape the mixture into small sausage-like shapes, about 2 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil, or use parchment paper suitable for air fryers.
- Arrange the lamb koftas in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Once cooked, remove the koftas from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander or mint leaves before serving.
- Serve with your choice of dips, such as tzatziki or hummus, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Lamb Koftas
- Quality Mince: Choose good quality, fresh minced lamb with a little fat for juicier koftas.
- Chill the Mix: Chilling the mixture helps it hold together better during cooking.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the spices to your taste preferences. More chilli flakes can add a nice kick if desired.
- Serve with Sides: These koftas pair beautifully with flatbreads, salads, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.
This recipe not only promises delicious spiced lamb koftas but also showcases the convenience of air frying. Perfectly crispy yet tender, they are sure to become a favourite at your dining table. Try them out today for a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine made simple with your modern kitchen appliance.