iranian food recipe
- The Best iranian food recipe
- Iranian Lamb Kofta Kebabs with Mint-Yogurt Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Iranian Lamb Kofta Kebabs with Mint-Yogurt Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Iranian Lamb Kofta Kebabs with Mint-Yogurt Sauce
The Best iranian food recipe

Iranian Lamb Kofta Kebabs with Mint-Yogurt Sauce
A flavorful dish featuring tender lamb meatballs shaped into kebabs, slow-cooked with aromatic spices and served with a refreshing mint-yogurt sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your grill pan or oven rack to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the skewers with olive oil to prevent sticking. -
2
In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix gently until well combined. -
3
Form the mixture into small, even balls (about 1-inch diameter) and thread them onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each. -
4
In a small bowl, mix tomato paste, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Brush this mixture evenly over the lamb kebabs. -
5
Heat the grill pan or oven rack over medium-high heat. Grill the kebabs for 3–4 minutes per side, until the edges are slightly charred and the lamb is cooked through. -
6
While the kebabs cook, prepare the mint-yogurt sauce by mixing yogurt, chopped mint, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and parsley in a bowl. -
7
Serve the warm kebabs with the mint-yogurt sauce on the side, and enjoy with steamed rice or warm pita bread.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Kebab skewers
- Grill pan or oven rack
- Mixing spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the lamb mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- If using an oven, transfer the skewers to a baking tray and bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Watch Video Of How Iranian Lamb Kofta Kebabs with Mint-Yogurt Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Iranian Lamb Kofta Kebabs with Mint-Yogurt Sauce
What is the best way to store this dish for leftovers?
You can store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid reheating in the microwave directly on high power to prevent drying out.
Can I substitute any ingredients if I don’t have them on hand?
Yes, you can adjust some ingredients based on availability. For example, if you don’t have yogurt, use a plain dairy-free yogurt alternative. For a tangier flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice. If you lack fresh cilantro, dried cilantro can be used in smaller quantities. Keep in mind that flavor profiles may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the spices. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of za’atar can add depth. If using fresh herbs, toast them lightly before incorporating them into the mixture. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Cook the ingredients ahead of time, portion them into containers, and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the mixture gently and let it sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld again.
