Lebanese Kafta is a tasty dish made with spiced ground beef or lamb. It’s mixed with herbs and onions, then shaped into fun little skewers, perfect for grilling!
Cooking these kafta skewers fills the kitchen with delicious smells. I love serving them with pita bread and a fresh salad. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Either meat works well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey can be a good substitute. Just keep in mind it won’t have the same richness.
Onion: A medium onion is great for moisture and flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder is an acceptable substitute, but fresh will give a much better taste.
Herbs (Parsley & Mint): Fresh herbs make a big difference. If you can’t find mint, fresh cilantro can work in a pinch. Dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness, but they can be used in smaller amounts.
Spices: Cumin, coriander, and allspice are key. If you don’t have allspice, just add a bit more cumin and cinnamon to adjust. Don’t skip the spices, as they give the kafta its distinctive flavor!
How Do I Shape the Kafta Skewers Properly?
Shaping the kafta can be tricky, but here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure your hands are wet to prevent the meat from sticking.
- Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into a long oval patty around the skewer, making sure it’s firmly pressed. This helps it hold together during grilling.
- Try not to make them too thick; about 1 inch thick is ideal for even cooking.
After shaping, let them rest in the fridge again if you have time. This helps them firm up further!
How to Make Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Kafta Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh tomatoes, sliced
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Hummus
- Pita bread (optional)
- Additional parsley or mint (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lebanese Kafta takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to chill in the fridge for flavor. After marinating, grilling will take about 10-15 minutes. So, you’ll be enjoying your meal in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kafta Mixture:
Start by taking a large bowl and combine the ground beef or lamb with the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and optional mint. These fresh herbs give the kafta its amazing flavor! Then, add in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well with your hands or a spoon until it’s nicely blended.
2. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the ingredients meld together for a more delicious taste.
3. Preheat and Prepare for Grilling:
While the kafta is chilling, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, give them a quick soak in some water for about 30 minutes to keep them from burning while grilling.
4. Shape the Kafta:
Once the mixture has chilled, it’s time to shape it! Take some of the kafta mixture and mold it around the skewers into long, oval patties, pressing down firmly so they stick. Make sure each skewer has a good amount of meat on it. This helps them hold their shape while grilling.
5. Grill the Kafta:
Before grilling, lightly brush the skewers with olive oil. This will not only prevent sticking but also add flavor. Place the kafta skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to be well-cooked with lovely grill marks.
6. Prepare the Garnish:
While your kafta cooks, slice up some fresh tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion to prepare your serving platter. This will be the perfect complement to your delicious kafta!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the kafta is done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Arrange the kafta on a platter, alongside hummus and your beautifully sliced veggies. Don’t forget to garnish with more fresh parsley or mint! If you like, serve with pita bread on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Lebanese Kafta!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef or lamb! Just try to use a blend that includes some dark meat for better flavor and moisture. The cooking time may need slight adjustment, so grill until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Long Can I Store Leftover Kafta?
Leftover kafta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked kafta for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make the 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. The flavors will continue to develop overnight, making it even tastier when you grill it the next day!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Kafta?
Kafta pairs wonderfully with pita bread and a side of hummus. You can also serve it on a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget the garnishes like sliced veggies for added crunch and color!
