Lamb & Vegetable Koftas
My delicious lamb koftas are perfect for all family members. Lamb koftas are a popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of ground lamb mixed with herbs and spices, shaped into meatballs, and grilled or baked. What makes these koftas special is the added sweetness from carrots and dates to tempt even the fussiest of little eaters to give them a go.
DIETARY: DF, GF, NF
ALLERGENS: Eggs
AGE GROUP: 8 months+
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Beginner
SERVES: 8 (makes 16 koftas)
PREP: 15 mins
COOK: 15-20 mins or bake for 25 mins
EQUIPMENT: High-speed food processor
INGREDIENTS:
1 leek (150g), rinsed
1 medium-sized carrot (130g), peeled
2 Medjool dates (30g), pitted
1 garlic clove (10g), peeled
1 egg
560g minced lamb
½ tsp (1g) ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp (0.5g) ground cumin
Extra virgin olive oil, for frying
METHOD:
Place leek, carrot, dates, garlic and egg in a food processor and blend until smooth.
In a big bowl combine minced lamb with spices and processed vegetables.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into mini kofta shapes.
Heat oil in a medium size frying pan and cook koftas in batches for 3-5 mins on each side or until cooked through. Alternatively, place them onto a baking tray lined with baking paper and bake for 25 mins at 180°C.
MANDY’S SERVING SUGGESTION:
Serve with Cauliflower and Potato Mash and steamed vegetables on the side.
STORING LEFTOVERS: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 4 months.
TIPS:
Prep tips: Instead of shaping the koftas into long shapes, press the mince mixture into a baking dish and bake as a kofta meat loaf.
Allergies: For an egg-free version: Leave out the egg.
Easy ingredient swaps: Replace the lamb mince with beef mince.
Additional boosters: Add 2 cups of spinach to the vegetables in the food processor and blend.
Baby-friendly version: Serve mashed or cut into finger food-sized pieces.
For fussy eaters: Make sure the vegetables are finely pureed before adding to the mince.