Lebanese Kafta is a tasty dish made from ground beef or lamb mixed with herbs and spices. These flavorful meat skewers are perfect for grilling or baking!
They’re so good, you might want to make extra for leftovers! I love serving them with fresh pita and a squeeze of lemon—it’s a hit every time. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both options work well for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner choice, turkey or chicken can also be used, although it will slightly alter the flavor. I sometimes blend beef and lamb for a richer taste.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds a fresh touch. If you don’t have it, cilantro could be a great substitute for a different flavor profile, though it’s not traditional.
Spices: Cumin, allspice, paprika, and cinnamon create the signature taste of kafta. If you lack allspice, a mixture of nutmeg and cinnamon will work in a pinch. I like to add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
Olive Oil: This is used for grilling. Grapeseed or vegetable oil can easily replace it if you’re out. I prefer olive oil for the flavor it lends to grilled meats.
How Can I Shape the Kafta So They Don’t Fall Apart on the Grill?
Shaping kafta can be tricky, but it’s vital for keeping them intact while cooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to mix the meat mixture well; this helps bind the ingredients together.
- Wet your hands slightly for easier handling while shaping the meat onto the skewers.
- Press the meat firmly onto the skewer, creating a compact shape. Aim for about 1-inch in thickness.
- Leave some space at the end of the skewer for easy handling.
These tips will ensure that your kafta stays together while grilling and comes out delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kafta:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
For Serving:
- Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- Sliced cucumbers
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Additional parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lebanese Kafta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, cumin, allspice, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well with your hands until all the ingredients are nicely combined.
2. Shape the Kafta:
Take a portion of the meat mixture and shape it into long cylindrical shapes around the skewers. Make sure to press the meat firmly onto the skewers so they hold together while cooking. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or a grill pan ready by preheating it over medium-high heat. Brush the grill with olive oil to help prevent the kafta from sticking. This step is important for a nice, even grill!
4. Grill the Kafta:
Place the kafta skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to get that beautiful golden-brown color on all sides. You want them cooked through but still juicy!
5. Let Them Rest:
Once the kafta is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle in the meat, making it even more delicious!
6. Serve It Up:
For serving, spread a generous amount of hummus on a plate or in a bowl. Arrange the grilled kafta skewers on top of the hummus. Surround them with sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra parsley on top!
7. Enjoy!
Your Lebanese Kafta is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with fresh vegetables and hummus, and share this delightful dish with your family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or lamb! Keep in mind that ground poultry has less fat, so your kafta might be a bit drier. To help maintain moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a small amount of yogurt to the mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Kafta?
Store leftover kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Wrap individually and place in a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the grill or in a pan.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No problem! If you don’t have skewers, you can form the kafta into patties and grill them directly on the grill or in a grill pan. Just be sure to reduce cooking time slightly, as patties cook faster than skewered shapes.
Can I Make the Kafta Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the kafta mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before shaping it on skewers, as this will help with even cooking.
