Spiced Lamb Kabobs with Yogurt-Mint Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender lamb skewers seasoned with warm spices and served alongside a cooling yogurt and fresh mint dip. This middle eastern-inspired lamb ready in about 25 minutes blends ground lamb, garlic cloves, minced, ground cumin into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 270 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 6 Middle Eastern cuisine 270 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground lamb, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley. Mix gently until ingredients are evenly incorporated but do not overwork the meat.
  2. Step 2: Divide the lamb mixture into 6 equal portions and form each around a soaked wooden skewer into a long, thin kabob shape about 1-inch thick.
  3. Step 3: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush the kabobs lightly with 1 tbsp olive oil. Grill the kabobs for 4-5 minutes per side until browned on the outside and cooked through to medium.
  4. Step 4: Meanwhile, prepare the yogurt-mint sauce by mixing 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves, and 1 tbsp lemon juice in a small bowl.
  5. Step 5: Remove kabobs from heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve warm with the yogurt-mint sauce for dipping.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Spiced Lamb Kabobs with Yogurt-Mint Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Spiced Lamb Kabobs with Yogurt-Mint Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Spiced Lamb Kabobs with Yogurt-Mint Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Spiced Lamb Kabobs with Yogurt-Mint Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Spiced Lamb Kabobs with Yogurt-Mint Sauce?

Middle Eastern lamb like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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