This Easy Lebanese Kafta is a tasty dish made from ground beef or lamb mixed with spices and herbs. It’s simple to make and perfect for grilling or baking!
These flavorful meat skewers are a hit at any meal. You can impress your friends at a barbecue without breaking a sweat. Who doesn’t love a good skewered treat? 😄
I love serving kafta with warm pita bread and fresh salad. It makes for a great, easy dinner packed with flavor that everyone enjoys! Give it a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both options are great, but I usually prefer a mix for richer flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner version, try turkey or chicken, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Onion: Finely grated onion adds moisture and sweetness. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder, but fresh is always best for texture and taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brings freshness to the kafta. If parsley isn’t available, cilantro can be a fun substitute, adding a different flavor profile.
Spices: Allspice and cinnamon are key for that authentic flavor. If you find you don’t have allspice, a mix of nutmeg and cloves can work in a pinch. Skip cumin if you want a milder taste.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Kafta Skewers?
Grilling kafta can be simple if you keep a few tips in mind. First, ensure the skewers are soaked if you’re using wooden ones—this prevents burning. Heat is also crucial. Aim for medium-high heat to get that nice char without drying out the meat.
- Preheating the grill is important! It helps to cook the kafta evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each skewer space for air circulation.
- Turn the skewers gently with tongs, and give them 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re fully cooked and have a nice brown color.
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully grilled kafta every time. Enjoy!
Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe with Beef or Lamb
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kafta Mix:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground lamb (or a mix)
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin (optional)
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes before using
For Serving:
- Hummus
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Sliced cucumber
- Red onion slices
- Crumbled feta or akkawi cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil and a sprinkle of ground black pepper for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 15-20 minutes to grill. So, you’ll be enjoying your homemade kafta in around 30-35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kafta Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with the finely grated onion, chopped parsley, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and cumin if you’re using it. Mix everything thoroughly, but be gentle. Overmixing can make your kafta tough, and we want it to stay tender!
2. Shape the Kafta Skewers:
Divide the meat mixture into 8 to 10 equal portions. With wet hands (this helps prevent sticking), mold each portion around a skewer. Shape it into a long, slightly flat sausage that’s about 5-6 inches long. Make sure the meat clings well to the skewer!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to stop the kafta from sticking while they cook.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the kafta skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning carefully until they are nicely browned and fully cooked through. It’s a good idea to check that the meat is no longer pink inside.
5. Serve with Fresh Sides:
Once the kafta is done, arrange it on a serving plate with a generous scoop of hummus. Add some halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion rings around the kafta. If you like, sprinkle some crumbled feta and fresh parsley on top to make it even prettier.
6. Final Touches:
Drizzle a little olive oil over everything and add a pinch of black pepper for flavor. Serve warm with pita bread or as part of your favorite meze spread.
Enjoy your flavorful homemade Lebanese Kafta—it’s simple, delicious, and sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Lebanese Kafta
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, you can absolutely use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option! Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different, and you may want to add extra seasonings to enhance the taste.
Can I Make the Kafta Mixture in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the kafta mixture and form the skewers up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap. Just be sure to cook them within a day for the best flavor and freshness!
How Do I Store Leftover Kafta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or you can also grill them briefly again to add a little char!
What Sauce Goes Well with Kafta?
Kafta pairs wonderfully with tahini sauce, garlic sauce, or tzatziki. These dips add a nice creaminess that complements the spices in the kafta. Enjoy experimenting to find your favorite pairing!
