Quick kofta and lemon tagine

Enjoy a flavorful and aromatic Quick Kofta and Lemon Tagine with tender lamb mince, infused with a rich blend of spices like cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and fresh coriander. Cooked in a savory chicken gravy and brightened with zesty lemon juice, this dish offers a quick yet authentic Moroccan culinary experience perfect for any weeknight dinner.

  • 11 Feb 2025
  • Cook time 30 min
  • Prep time 20 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 12 Ingredients

Quick kofta and lemon tagine

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.

Ingredients:

1 lb lamb mince
450g
1 onion
160g
1 tsp cinnamon
3g
1 tsp ground cumin
3g
1 cup coriander leaves
16g
1 tbsp butter
16g
1 tbsp olive oil
14g
1 tsp ginger root
5g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1 tsp turmeric powder
5g
1 cup chicken gravy
200g
1 tbsp lemon juice
5g

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.

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.

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!

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size220 grams
Energy
Calories 400kcal20%
Protein
Protein 20g13%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 9g2%
Fiber 1.74g5%
Sugar 2.67g3%
Fat
Fat 36g41%
Saturated 14g47%
Cholesterol 90mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 44ug5%
Choline 90mg16%
Vitamin B1 0.17mg14%
Vitamin B2 0.29mg22%
Vitamin B3 7mg44%
Vitamin B6 0.24mg14%
Vitamin B9 33ug8%
Vitamin B12 2.62ug109%
Vitamin C 5mg6%
Vitamin E 0.48mg3%
Vitamin K 16ug14%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 50mg4%
Copper, Cu 0.18mg20%
Iron, Fe 3.26mg30%
Magnesium, Mg 36mg9%
Phosphorus, P 210mg17%
Potassium, K 420mg12%
Selenium, Se 22ug40%
Sodium, Na 270mg18%
Zinc, Zn 4.13mg38%
Water
Water 160g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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