Lebanese Kafta is a tasty dish made with ground beef or lamb mixed with spices, herbs, and onions. It’s shaped into juicy kebabs that are great on the grill!
These kebabs are perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. I love serving them with fresh pita and a squeeze of lemon. So yummy, even your grill might get jealous! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Traditional kafta uses lamb for a richer flavor, but ground beef is a great option too. If you’re looking for a leaner choice, ground turkey works well but may require a little more seasoning.
Onion: I prefer using yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re short on time, shallots are a lovely substitute and can add a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch to the kafta. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can work, but use less as it’s more potent.
Spices: Cumin and coriander are essential for that warm Middle Eastern flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne for some heat, or use smoked paprika for a different twist. If you’re out of allspice, a mix of nutmeg and cinnamon can be a simple substitute.
Parsley: Fresh parsley is a must for brightness. If you’re not a fan of parsley, you could use mint for a refreshing change.
Skewers: Wooden skewers need soaking to avoid burning. If you have metal skewers, they work perfectly and eliminate the soaking step!
How Do You Shape the Kafta for Grilling?
Shaping the kafta can be tricky, but it’s essential for even cooking. Follow these steps for best results:
- Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking.
- Take a handful of the meat mixture and shape it into a sausage-like form, about 1 inch thick.
- Press it firmly onto the skewer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. This helps the kafta hold its shape during grilling.
- If you notice any cracks while shaping, simply reform and smooth them out with your hands.
Don’t rush this step; a well-shaped kafta will grill beautifully and hold its flavor. Happy grilling!
How to Make Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kafta:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for grilling)
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
For Serving:
- Hummus
- Sliced cucumbers
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lebanese Kafta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to marinate for the best flavor. Then, you’ll grill them for about 10-12 minutes. So, for a total time of around 55 minutes, you’ll have a wonderful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kafta Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything well. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated together; this will ensure your kafta is flavorful!
2. Marinate for Flavor:
Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Preheat and Prepare for Grilling:
While the kafta marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.
4. Shape and Skewer the Kafta:
After marinating, take the meat mixture and shape it into long sausage-like forms, about 1 inch thick. Carefully skewer these onto the soaked skewers, making sure the meat is secure and won’t fall off while cooking.
5. Grill to Perfection:
If you like, brush the skewers lightly with olive oil to enhance flavor. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. You’re looking for that perfect char!
6. Rest the Kafta:
Once the kafta are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes them even tastier!
7. Prepare to Serve:
For a beautiful presentation, spread a generous amount of hummus on a large platter. Arrange the grilled kafta skewers on top, and artistically place sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and crumbled feta cheese around them. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an added touch!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your delicious kafta with warm pita bread or enjoy them on their own. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative, but it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor. You might want to add a bit more salt and some additional spices to ensure it stays tasty.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Kafta?
Leftover kafta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked kafta for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or on the grill to maintain its flavor and texture.
Can I Bake Kafta Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can bake kafta! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are cooked through and browned.
What Breads Pair Well with Kafta?
Pita bread is a classic choice, but you could also serve it with flatbreads or even a bulgur salad for a delicious meal. The bread will help soak up the flavors and add to the overall enjoyment of the dish!
