Lebanese Kafta is a tasty mix of ground beef or lamb with spices, shaped into juicy patties or skewers. It’s full of flavor and perfect for grilling!
Honestly, nothing feels better than the smell of Kafta sizzling on the grill. I love serving it with warm pita bread and a side of fresh salad. It’s always a hit at gatherings! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: You can use either ground beef for a milder flavor or lamb if you prefer a richer taste. I often lean towards lamb because it pairs beautifully with the spices.
Onion: A small, finely grated onion adds sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have fresh onion, try onion powder, but reduce the quantity, as it’s more concentrated.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint are key for flavor. If fresh isn’t available, substitute with dried versions, but use about a third of the amount since they are stronger in flavor.
Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! If you’re out of cumin or coriander, ground cinnamon can add a nice warmth. I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne for a kick!
Skewers: Wooden skewers need soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you have metal skewers, they work great and can be used without soaking.
How Do I Shape and Grill the Kafta Skewers Perfectly?
Shaping kafta skewers can seem tricky. Aim for an elongated shape to ensure even grilling. Packing the meat mixture tightly around the skewers prevents them from falling apart on the grill.
- Wet your hands to avoid sticking when molding the meat around the skewers.
- Make each kafta about 1-inch thick—this helps them cook evenly and hold together.
- Brush lightly with olive oil to keep them from sticking to the grill and to help develop a nice char.
- Monitor closely while cooking. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side; look for a slight char and firm texture.
How to Make Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb)
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, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Olive oil (for brushing)
For Serving:
- Sliced cucumbers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion
- Hummus (as a side)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and at least 30 minutes for marinating in the fridge. Plus, it takes about 15 minutes to cook, making the total time about 1 hour. It’s worth the wait for those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Meat Mixture:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add the ground beef or lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped mint (if you’re using it). Now, sprinkle in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (if you like). Mix everything together well using your hands or a spatula until all the ingredients are well combined.
2. Marinating the Mixture:
Once you have your meat mixture prepared, cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors come together nicely. While you wait, you can clean up or prepare your grill!
3. Shaping the Kafta:
After the mixture has marinated, it’s time to get your grill ready. Preheat it to medium-high heat. Take the wooden or metal skewers and grab a handful of the meat mixture. Mold it around each skewer, forming elongated shapes that are about 1 inch thick. Make sure the meat is evenly distributed and covers the skewer well. Repeat this step until all the meat is used up.
4. Grilling the Kafta:
Now it’s time to grill! Lightly brush the kafta skewers with olive oil to help them not stick to the grill. Place the skewers on the hot grill and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice char. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Serving Your Delicious Kafta:
Once your kafta is done cooking, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, serve the kafta with a nice platter of sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Don’t forget a generous scoop of hummus on the side! Feel free to garnish with extra parsley if you like. Enjoy your flavorful Lebanese Kafta!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef or lamb. However, it may have less flavor, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or an extra tablespoon of olive oil to keep the kafta moist and flavorful!
Can I Make the Kafta Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the kafta mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to develop even more. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap until you’re ready to grill.
How Do I Store Leftover Kafta?
If you have leftovers, cool them completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply grill for a few minutes on medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Freeze the Kafta Mixture?
Yes! The kafta mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months. Shape the mixture onto skewers and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling!
