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A rich and savory Lamb Kofta Curry with green herbs, served in a bowl.

Lamb Kofta Curry

This Lamb Kofta Curry features tender lamb meatballs simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce. It's a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Large pan or Dutch oven
  • Plate

Ingredients
  

For the Kofta

  • 500 g lamb mince
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic minced
  • 1 ginger inch, grated
  • 1 green chili finely chopped (optional)
  • fresh coriander Handful, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder adjust to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp gram flour (chickpea flour) or breadcrumbs

For the Curry Sauce

  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 2 onions finely chopped
  • 3 garlic minced
  • 1 ginger inch, grated
  • 1 green chili slit (optional)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 400 g chopped tomatoes canned or fresh
  • 200 ml water or stock
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or cream optional, for richness
  • Fresh coriander chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Kofta

  • In a large bowl, combine lamb mince, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green chili (if using), chopped fresh coriander, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then add gram flour or breadcrumbs until just combined.

Form the Kofta

  • Divide the mixture into equal portions and roll them into small, cylindrical kofta shapes, aiming for about 15-20. Refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up if time allows.

Brown the Kofta

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Brown the koftas in batches on all sides until golden, then remove and set aside.

Sauté the Onions

  • In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the finely chopped onions over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Aromatics and Spices

  • Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili (if using) to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder, cooking for 30 seconds until aromatic, adding a splash of water if dry.

Simmer the Curry

  • Pour in chopped tomatoes, stir well, then bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.

Return Kofta to Curry

  • Add the browned koftas back into the curry sauce along with water or stock. Gently stir, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for another 15-20 minutes until koftas are cooked through and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Finish and Serve

  • Stir in garam masala and, if desired, Greek yogurt or cream for a richer sauce. Taste, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh chopped coriander. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

The nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.