Jamie Oliver Lamb Koftas

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold spices and smoky grilled flavor, Jamie Oliver Lamb Koftas are the perfect solution. These tender skewers of minced lamb are packed with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and a hit of chili for heat. I made this on a whim during a weekend BBQ, and the aromas alone had everyone hovering by the grill! (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

For the Lamb Koftas:

• 500 g (1.1 lbs) lamb mince
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
• 2 ½ tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

To Serve:

• 4 flatbreads
• 1 tbsp fresh coriander, roughly chopped
• Salad (lettuce, tomato, red onion)
• Minted yoghurt dip or Tzatziki

How To Make Jamie Oliver Lamb Koftas

Prep the Flavour Base:

Start by heating olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add your finely diced onion and let it sauté gently for about 4–5 minutes. It should soften and start to caramelize—this gives your koftas a deliciously sweet undertone.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook it for another 30 seconds. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Once fragrant, transfer this mix to a bowl to cool completely.

Mix and Shape:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lamb mince with the cooled onion and garlic, freshly chopped mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is evenly combined.

Wet your hands slightly—this helps with sticking—and shape the mixture around skewers. Press them tightly so they hold their shape.

Grill to Perfection:

Heat your BBQ or griddle to medium-high. Lay the koftas on and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning every couple of minutes. Use tongs to gently turn them—they’re delicate when raw but firm up as they cook.

Once they’ve got a lovely golden crust, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps keep them juicy. Serve with flatbreads, a crisp salad, a dollop of yogurt dip, and a scatter of fresh coriander.

Why I Love This Recipe

I whipped up these koftas for a small family dinner, and they were a hit with both the spice lovers and the milder palates. They’re super flexible—easy to make ahead, freeze, or customize depending on who’s coming over. Plus, that smoky spice mix is downright addictive!

Recipe Tips

• Caramelize the Onion: It adds natural sweetness that balances the spices.
• Cool the Base: Always cool the onion/garlic mix before adding to lamb to keep the mince from cooking prematurely.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine until just mixed to keep the koftas tender.
• Skewer Help: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Spice Play: Swap mint for parsley, or use sumac or smoked paprika for variation.

How To Store This Jamie Oliver Lamb Koftas

At Room Temperature:

Serve immediately after cooking. Don’t leave out for more than 2 hours.

In the Fridge:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

In the Freezer:

Freeze cooked or uncooked koftas for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in foil or store in a zip-top freezer bag.

Reheating:

• Oven: 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
• Microwave: 2 minutes on high
• Skillet: 5 minutes over medium heat
• Air-fryer: 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C)

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 202 kcal
• Carbs: 2 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Fibre: 1 g
• Sodium: 186 mg

Let’s Answer a Few Questions!

How do you prevent lamb koftas from drying out?
Great question! Don’t overcook them and let them rest for 3–5 minutes before serving—that helps retain their juices.

Can I make these spicier?
Totally! Add more chili flakes or mix in some fresh chopped chili for a kick.

Is it okay to use dried mint instead of fresh?
Yes, just use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What’s the difference between koftas and kebabs?
Koftas use minced meat and are shaped into logs, while kebabs are made with chunks of meat or veggies.

Try More Recipes:

• Jamie Oliver Sardine Spaghetti
• Jamie Oliver Chickpea Salad
• Jamie Oliver Burrata With Cherry Tomatoes Recipe