This Lebanese Kafta is a delicious dish made with minced beef or lamb, mixed with fresh herbs and spices. It’s perfect for grilling, giving it a wonderfully smoky flavor!
Honestly, the herbs in this recipe make it smell amazing while cooking. I love serving it with warm pita and a side of fresh salad. It’s like a little taste of Lebanon at home! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Either meat works well, but lamb adds a distinct flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey can be used, though the flavor will be milder.
Onion: Finely grating the onion helps it blend into the meat. If you’re short on time, onion powder is a quicker alternative.
Parsley & Mint: Fresh herbs are key for the vibrant flavor. Feel free to use all parsley if mint isn’t available. Dried herbs can work too, but use less, about one-third of the fresh amount.
Spices: Cumin, coriander, and cinnamon give the kafta its unique taste. You can swap out cinnamon for nutmeg if you prefer a different spice profile.
Olive Oil: While brushing with olive oil is traditional, other oils like avocado or canola work just fine for grilling.
How Do I Ensure My Kafta Stays on the Skewers?
Shaping the meat evenly around the skewers is crucial. Here are some handy tips:
- Keep your hands damp while forming the kafta. This prevents the mixture from sticking.
- Press the meat firmly onto the skewer until it holds its shape. This ensures it doesn’t slip off during cooking.
- Make sure to leave space at the ends of the skewers so you can easily hold them while grilling.
Don’t rush this step—taking your time to get a good shape will help you enjoy perfectly grilled kafta!
How to Make Lebanese Kafta!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kafta:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Hummus
- Pita bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes for grilling. In total, you will be looking at around 30-35 minutes to make this delicious Lebanese Kafta, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, take the ground beef or lamb and add the finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and mint (if you’re using it). Then sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well with your hands or a spoon until the mixture is evenly combined.
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, divide the meat mixture into equal portions—about 4 to 6. Take each portion and shape it around a skewer, forming elongated kebabs. Make sure to pack the meat firmly around the skewer so that it doesn’t fall apart while cooking.
3. Grill the Kafta:
Brush the kafta thoroughly with olive oil to help keep it moist and flavorful. Place the skewers on your preheated grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are browned and cooked through. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
4. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once your kafta are cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. To serve, arrange the kafta on a platter alongside a bowl of hummus, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion. Don’t forget to serve with warm pita bread on the side!
5. Enjoy!
Dive into your delicious Lebanese Kafta while it’s hot! For an extra special touch, you can drizzle a little more olive oil over the top and sprinkle some fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may not be as flavorful as beef or lamb, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or a touch of olive oil to keep the mixture moist.
How Can I Make Kafta Without Skewers?
No worries! If you don’t have skewers, you can shape the kafta into patties instead. Just flatten them slightly to ensure even cooking on the grill or in a skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to keep them from drying out, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Can I Freeze the Kafta Mixture?
Absolutely! The kafta mixture freezes well. Shape it into kebabs or patties, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking!
