- Why did the meatball fall apart?
- Likely not kneaded enough, or not seared well before adding to sauce.
- Sauce too thin?
- Remove balls and boil sauce on high for a few minutes to reduce.
Lamb Meatball Curry (Kofta)
Kofta isn't just a meatball; it's an artistic weaving of spice and meat. This Indian dish is about slow simmering and layering flavors. The bold, richer taste of lamb contrasts perfectly with the creamy, sweet coconut milk sauce. The secret is searing the balls: this locks in flavor before they simmer to tenderness.
Ingredients
1
lb
Ground Lamb (or fatty Beef)
2
pcs
Onions (finely chopped)
3
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
1
tbsp
Fresh Ginger (grated)
1
bunch
Fresh Cilantro (stems and leaves)
1
tsp
Ground Cumin
1
tsp
Ground Coriander
1
tsp
Garam Masala
1
tsp
Turmeric
1/2
tsp
Chili Powder
2
tbsp
Tomato Paste
1
can
Coconut Milk (13.5 oz)
3
tbsp
Vegetable Oil or Ghee
1
tsp
Salt
1/2
tsp
Black Pepper
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Wide skillet or pot with lid
- Sharp knife
Allergen Information
Tree Nut (Coconut)
Instructions
1
✓
Place ground meat in a bowl. Add half the onion (very finely chopped), half the cilantro, cumin, coriander, half the garam masala, salt, and pepper. Knead thoroughly by hand until sticky.
Tip: Kneading changes protein structure to form a web, holding balls together without egg (myosin extraction).
2
✓
With wet hands, form walnut-sized balls. Place on a tray.
Tip: Chilling for 20 mins sets the fat, making them easier to handle.
3
✓
Heat oil in large skillet. Brown meatballs in batches on medium-high until golden. Remove.
Tip: Maillard reaction gives deep roasted flavor essential for good curry.
4
✓
In same pan, sauté remaining onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger, cook 1 minute.
Tip: Caramelizing onion adds sweetness and body.
5
✓
Stir in turmeric, remaining garam masala, chili, and tomato paste. Fry 1-2 mins.
Tip: Heating spices in oil wakes up volatile oils.
6
✓
Pour in coconut milk, stir smooth, boil. Salt to taste.
Tip: Use full-fat milk for creaminess.
7
✓
Return meatballs to sauce. Simmer covered on low 15-20 mins.
Tip: Flavors exchange via osmosis.
8
✓
Serve topped with remaining cilantro, alongside Basmati or Naan.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Lamb (or fatty Beef)
- 2 pcs Onions (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated)
- 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (stems and leaves)
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 tsp Ground Coriander
- 1 tsp Garam Masala
- 1 tsp Turmeric
- 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 can Coconut Milk (13.5 oz)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil or Ghee
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper