Quick kofta and lemon tagine

Quick Kofta and Lemon Tagine features spiced lamb meatballs simmered in a tangy lemon and chicken gravy sauce. This easy Middle Eastern-inspired dish combines aromatic spices and fresh herbs for a delicious meal.

15 Nov 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 lb lamb mince
1 onion
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ground cumin
1 cup coriander leaves
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ginger root
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 cup chicken gravy
1 tbsp lemon juice

Quick Kofta and Lemon Tagine is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of seasoned lamb mince with the tangy zest of lemon. This Middle Eastern-inspired meal is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quick yet flavorful dinner. The rich spices and fresh herbs make this dish both aromatic and delicious, truly bringing a taste of exotica to your kitchen.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Onion Mix:
- In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground cinnamon, ground cumin, and turmeric powder. Cook for another minute, stirring to combine the spices with the onions. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the lamb mince, half of the chopped coriander leaves, and the cooled onion mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix together with your hands until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs (koftas), about the size of a walnut, and set them aside.

3. Cook the Koftas:
- In a large tagine or a heavy-bottomed skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the koftas in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook, turning occasionally, until the koftas are browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once all the koftas are browned, return them all to the pan.

4. Make the Sauce:
- Pour the chicken gravy into the tagine or skillet. Stir gently to combine with the koftas.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the koftas are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

5. Finish the Tagine:
- Stir in the lemon juice and the remaining chopped coriander leaves.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve:
- Serve the koftas and sauce hot, with a side of couscous, rice, or bread, and garnish with extra coriander leaves if desired.

This Quick Kofta and Lemon Tagine is a fantastic way to explore Middle Eastern cuisine. Serve it with some warm, crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious gravy. It's a heartwarming and flavorful meal that can be prepared in a short amount of time, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy!

Quick kofta and lemon tagine FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the koftas?

The koftas should be browned for about 5-7 minutes in butter over medium-high heat. After adding the chicken gravy, cover and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.

What should I do if my koftas are falling apart?

If your koftas are falling apart, ensure you're mixing the ingredients well and allowing the meat mixture to rest before shaping. Adding a binding agent like breadcrumbs or an egg can also help.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of the Quick Kofta and Lemon Tagine. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I substitute for lamb mince?

You can substitute lamb mince with ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the different meats.

What pan size is best for cooking this tagine?

A large tagine or a heavy-bottomed skillet works best. Make sure it has enough space to cook all the koftas without overcrowding for even cooking.

Tips:

- For extra flavor, you can toast the cumin and coriander seeds before grinding them into a powder.

- If you prefer a smoother texture, finely chop the onion or even grate it to blend well with the lamb mince.

- For added nutrition and color, consider adding a handful of spinach or some diced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers into the gravy.

- Allow the koftas to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.

- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. You could also add a bit of lemon zest for an extra citrus punch.

- If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of water or extra chicken broth.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 400kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 1.74g
Sugar 2.67g
Fat 36g

Quick kofta and lemon tagine