Lebanese Kafta is a delicious mix of ground beef or lamb, combined with fresh herbs and spices. These tasty meat patties are perfect for grilling and bring a wonderful flavor to any meal!
When I make Kafta, I love serving it with warm pita bread and a side of crunchy salad. It’s so comforting that you might want to make extra for leftovers (trust me, they disappear fast)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Traditional kafta uses lamb for its rich flavor, but ground beef works perfectly, too! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. They may not have the same depth of flavor, but they are leaner choices.
Onion: Finely grated onion adds moisture and sweetness. If you’re short on onions, shallots or even green onions can be used as substitutes. They will give a mild flavor that still works well.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. Just remember, the fresh stuff packs a bigger punch!
Herbs and Spices: Fresh parsley gives a bright note. You can swap it for cilantro if you prefer. The spices like cumin, cinnamon, and allspice really bring the dish to life. Use ground nutmeg if you’re missing allspice, or try a combination of paprika and cloves.
Skewers: If you don’t have skewers, you can make kafta patties instead! Just shape the mixture into burger-like shapes and grill them directly on the grill or in a pan.
How Do You Grill Perfect Kafta Kebabs?
Grilling kafta can seem tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve that perfect char and tenderness.
- When mixing the meat, use your hands to blend the ingredients thoroughly. This helps create a better bond in the kebabs.
- Take a moment to marinate the mixture. Letting those flavors surround the meat for at least 30 minutes makes a huge difference.
- If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water stops them from burning on the grill.
- Shape your kebabs firmly around the skewers, but don’t pack them too tightly; this allows for even cooking.
- Preheat your grill well! High heat helps to form a nice outer crust while keeping the inside juicy. Flip them occasionally for even cooking.
How to Make Lebanese Kafta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kafta:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Wooden or metal skewers
For Serving:
- Hummus
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced red onion
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour total, including 30 minutes for marinating the meat and another 10-15 minutes for grilling. The rest of the time is spent preparing your serving platter and getting everything ready. It’s simple and so worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef or lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This is your flavorful kafta mixture!
2. Marinate the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because it helps all those delicious flavors blend together.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the mixture is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill.
4. Shape the Kafta:
Take the marinated meat mixture out of the fridge. Grab a handful of the mixture and shape it around the skewers, forming long, cylindrical kebabs. Try to press it firmly so that it holds its shape while cooking.
5. Brush with Olive Oil:
Lightly brush the skewers with olive oil. This helps them grill better and prevents sticking to the grill.
6. Grill the Kafta:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill the kafta for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to be cooked through and have nice grill marks on the outside!
7. Prepare the Serving Platter:
While the kafta is grilling, set up your serving platter. Spread out some hummus, and arrange the sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese in an inviting way.
8. Let Them Rest:
Once the kafta is done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the kafta warm on the platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy alongside your side vegetables and hummus for a wonderful meal!
Enjoy your homemade Lebanese Kafta!
Can I Use Other Meats for Kafta?
Absolutely! While traditional kafta is often made with ground beef or lamb, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftover Kafta?
Leftover kafta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, checking frequently to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make Kafta Without Skewers?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have skewers, simply form the kafta into patties and grill or pan-fry them. They’ll still be delicious, and you can serve them in a similar platter with the sides!
What Can I Serve with Kafta?
Kafta pairs wonderfully with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your serving, adding tzatziki sauce or a yogurt dip for extra flavor!
