Lebanese Kafta is a tasty dish made of ground beef or lamb mixed with fresh herbs and spices. These flavorful meat skewers are perfect for grilling or baking!
They’re super juicy and have a delightful blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance! I love pairing them with pita bread and a fresh salad for a yummy meal any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both options work well, but lamb gives a unique flavor. If you’re looking for leaner meat, try ground turkey. Chicken works too, but it will be milder.
Onion: A small onion adds moisture and flavor. You can use shallots if you want a subtler taste or even green onions for a fresh twist!
Fresh Parsley: This herb brightens up the dish. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro can be a bold substitute for a different flavor profile.
Spices: Ground cumin, coriander, and allspice are essential. If you’re out of allspice, try mixing nutmeg and cinnamon for a similar warmth.
Olive Oil: Use it for brushing the skewers. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil is a great alternative that also has a high smoke point.
How Do You Mold Perfectly Shaped Kebabs?
Molding the kafta around the skewers is key to getting them just right. Here are some tips for success:
- First, wet your hands to prevent sticking when handling the meat mixture.
- Take a handful of the meat mixture and form it into an elongated shape around the skewer, about 1 inch thick. Make sure to press it firmly but gently.
- Leave a little space on the ends of the skewer so they’re easy to handle on the grill.
- If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for a short while to firm it up.
Practicing will help you get the hang of it – enjoy the process!
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 grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Hummus
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes of resting time in the refrigerator to let the flavors blend. Cooking on the grill will take an additional 10-12 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 55-60 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with the grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, allspice, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This is where all the flavor comes together!
2. Let It Rest:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the meat mixture rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps the spices and ingredients to really meld and enhance the flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your mixture is resting, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Shape the Kafta:
Once rested, take portions of the meat mixture and mold them around the soaked skewers, shaping them into elongated kebabs that are about 1 inch thick. Make sure they are firmly packed to help them hold together while cooking.
5. Brush with Olive Oil:
Lightly brush the kafta skewers with olive oil. This helps to prevent sticking and adds a little extra flavor as they cook!
6. Grill the Kafta:
Put the skewers on your preheated grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally so they brown evenly and cook through. You want them to be nicely charred on the outside!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the kafta from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve the kafta kebabs on a plate with warm pita bread, hummus, and your choice of sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Don’t forget the lemon wedges to add a zest of freshness!
Enjoy your homemade Lebanese Kafta!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey as a leaner alternative! However, since these meats are less fatty, you might want to add a small amount of olive oil or breadcrumbs to maintain moisture and flavor. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so make sure they are cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftover Kafta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat or an oven to retain the kebabs’ moisture, avoiding a microwave if possible to prevent them from becoming dry.
Can I Prepare the Kafta Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the kafta mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. This will actually enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to cook, just shape and grill as directed!
What Can I Serve with Kafta Besides Pita Bread?
If you’re looking for alternatives to pita bread, consider serving kafta with rice, tabbouleh, or stuffed grape leaves. You could also serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh salad option!
