These mini lamb skewers are an easy appetizer that can be turned into a main course or hor d’oeuvres for parties. They are very versatile and easy to assemble. They can be enjoyed with any number of condiments or seasoned with different spices. This recipe will give you a quick template for making them your go to for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients you will need to make these mini lamb skewers
- Ground lamb. Ground lamb tends to have a pretty high fat content. Look for a leaner variety. It also helps to have a finer grind if possible which will lead to a less grainy texture. Chefs often lean towards domestic lamb when possible if looking for a less gamey flavor.
- Panko. Breadcrumbs help emulsify the fats as they cook and gives a less dense meatball texture without being heavy.
- The seasonings. We use an Eastern European flavor profile here which is typically olive oil, paprika, oregano, and garlic. You can also add some cayenne or ground chile to add spice, or other herbs such as marjoram, mint, sage, parsley, or rosemary. With this technique you can adjust the seasonings to fit your pallete.
- Be careful with the amount of salt. As the meat cooks and shrinks it can become too salty! Use sparingly and you can always add more at the end if needed.
Some ideas for things to serve with these skewers
There are any number of options here, but given the flavor profiles we have with this recipe, here are some great options:
- Serve with toasted pita halves to make a sandwich. Add some alfalfa sprouts and tomato for refreshing contrast.
- Use a whipped feta spread for dipping or add to the pita sandwiches.
- Serve with pickled vegetables such as this cauliflower or pickled onions. Pickled chiles are also fantastic.
- Serve with hummus for dipping or as a side.
- Think about adding a steamed rice as a starch, and contrast with a fresh salad of tomato, cucumber, and red onion.
- Use yogurt as a dip or zest it up with a yogurt dip.
- Put them between toasted baguette halves for a fantastic sandwich. You can even add roasted peppers or sauerkraut and mustard. Melted cheese is great as well.
Mini Lamb Skewers
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground lamb
- .75 cups Panko
- 3 ounces Milk
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Oregano
- .5 tsp Sea salt
- .5 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients.
- Soak the breadcrumbs with the olive oil and milk. Allow to sit for several minutes to absorb the liquids.
- In a bowl, season the meat with the salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Add the breadcrumbs.
- Mix the meat by hand, or in a mixer with the paddle attachment. Mix thoroughly, but not too much, as the fats will congeal.
- Using 2 ounce scoop, portion the meat into balls. Roll between the palms of your hand into tubes. Then skewer the meat.
- Using a cast iron skillet or heavy pan, brown the meat slowly, while rotating every few minutes. The meat should cook very slowly to prevent burning and to cook through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dips, breads, or pickles. Bon appetit!