Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta
Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta is a beloved dish consisting of seasoned ground lamb shaped into skewers or patties and grilled to perfection. It's typically made with a fragrant blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, often mixed with finely chopped onions and herbs. This dish is a staple across the Middle East, with variations found in countries from Lebanon to Iran.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Lamb Kofta is a high-protein dish, providing a substantial amount of iron and B vitamins, particularly B12, from the lamb. A typical serving of two kofta skewers (about 150g of meat) contains roughly 350-400 calories, with a moderate to high fat content depending on the cut of lamb used.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 5 g |
| Fat | 36 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Zinc | 5.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Selenium | 30 mcg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
Per 4 pieces (200 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, kofta is a unifying dish across the Middle East and Mediterranean, with each region adding its own unique spice blend or shape. Nutritionally, the combination of high-quality protein and iron makes it a particularly energizing and satisfying meal, often served with nutrient-rich sides like tabbouleh or yogurt-based sauces.
