Lamb Mince Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt

Why This Works for Intermittent Fasting

Lamb mince delivers dense, complete protein alongside natural animal fats — a combination that signals satiety quickly and sustains it through the fasting window that follows. The garlic yogurt dip adds protein from full-fat Greek yogurt without any added sugar. This meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a strong choice for breaking a fast without spending an hour in the kitchen when you are already hungry.

Ingredients

For the kebabs:

• 700g lamb mince (ideally 20% fat — keeps the kebabs moist)
• 3 cloves garlic, finely grated
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ghee or olive oil (for cooking)

For the garlic yogurt:

• 250g full-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or pressed
• 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried mint)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ¼ tsp sea salt
• Pinch of black pepper

To serve:

• 1 small cucumber, sliced
• Handful of fresh mint or parsley leaves
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Mix the kebab mixture. Combine the lamb mince, grated garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, chilli flakes, and chopped parsley in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly with your hands for about 2 minutes — the more you work the mixture, the better it binds and holds on the skewer.

2. Shape the kebabs. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a long sausage shape around a flat metal skewer (or form into oblong patties if using a grill pan without skewers). Press firmly so the meat clings to the skewer. Refrigerate for 10 minutes if time allows — this helps them hold their shape during cooking.

3. Make the garlic yogurt. While the kebabs rest, combine the Greek yogurt, grated garlic, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well and taste — adjust garlic or lemon to preference. Set aside.

4. Cook the kebabs. Heat a grill pan, barbecue, or heavy skillet over high heat. Add the ghee or olive oil. Cook the kebabs for 4–5 minutes per side — they should be nicely charred on the outside and cooked through. Resist moving them constantly; let them develop a crust before turning.

5. Rest briefly. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

6. Plate and serve. Arrange the kebabs alongside the garlic yogurt dip, sliced cucumber, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges.

Nutrition Per Serving

Fasting Compatibility

This recipe is ideal for breaking a 16:8 or longer fast. The high protein content (38g per serving) triggers muscle protein synthesis after the fasting window, while the natural animal fats from lamb provide sustained energy without a blood glucose spike. It works well as an OMAD (one meal a day) plate — serve two skewers with a larger portion of yogurt and a simple salad of cucumber, olive oil, and herbs.

Related Recipes

• OMAD Mediterranean plate — lamb kofta, tzatziki, cucumber
• Lamb chops with rosemary, garlic, and chimichurri
• Braised lamb shoulder with garlic and rosemary

This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making dietary changes, especially if you have an existing health condition.