QOFTE- ALBANIAN LAMB KOFTA

Qofte (pronounced chof-te) are Albanian meatballs that are grilled and often served as part of a sharing feast.

In Tirana, there’s a cluster of grill houses on a street corner near the market and ss you walk past, you’re hit with a dramatic billow of smoke carrying the aromas of freshly grilled meats and vegetables. For me, there’s something magical about how it instantly makes me feel at home.

Back in London, we sadly don’t have space for a BBQ but I love bringing a little piece of that street corner to the table with my lamb qofte recipe.


INGREDIENTS

500g lamb mince (Don’t choose a low fat option if possible)

2 Garlic cloves, finely chopped

1/2 Red onion, finely chopped

2 Rosemary stems, leaves removed and finely chopped

1 Tablespoon dried oregano

Small handful of mint, finely chopped

1 Egg

Olive oil

Salt & Pepper


METHOD

  1. Make the qofte mix by combining the lamb mince, garlic, onion, rosemary, oregano, mint and egg together in a bowl with a drizzle of oil and seasoned well. Combine together until the ingredients are evenly mixed.

  2. Separate off small portions of the qofte mix and with your hands, shape them into small meatball/ sausage shapes.

  3. Leave them to rest for a minute while you heat your grill pan.

  4. When the grill is ready, add the qofte and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning every couple of minutes until cooked through.

  5. Serve hot with a yoghurt-based sauce.

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BYREK WITH SPINACH & FETa