Step 1: Prepare the zucchini. Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, approximately 1/16th to 1/8th inch thick. Lay the strips on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Gently blot them dry with paper towels before use.
Step 2: Make the kofta mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh mint, breadcrumbs (if using), beaten egg, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until all ingredients are just combined and uniform. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the koftas tough.
Step 3: Form the koftas. Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture and form it into an oblong shape, roughly 2 inches long and 1 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture until you have about 12 koftas.
Step 4: Wrap the koftas with zucchini. Take one dried zucchini strip and place a formed kofta at one end. Carefully roll the kofta, wrapping it snugly with the zucchini strip. If one strip isn’t long enough, slightly overlap a second strip to fully encase the kofta. You can secure the end with a small toothpick if necessary, though the zucchini often holds its shape during cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Zucchini-Wrapped Lamb & Beef Koftas. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the zucchini-wrapped koftas in the pan, seam-side down first if using toothpicks, or just carefully if not. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning gently, until the zucchini is tender and slightly caramelized, and the koftas are cooked through and browned on all sides (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C).
Step 6: Serve immediately. Remove the Zucchini-Wrapped Lamb & Beef Koftas from the pan and let them rest for a minute or two. Serve hot with your favorite sides like tzatziki, hummus, pita bread, or a fresh salad.