These Beef Kafta Kebabs are tasty and easy to make! Ground beef is mixed with fresh herbs and spices, then shaped onto skewers and grilled to perfection.
They’re juicy and full of flavor, perfect for summer BBQs or a cozy night in! I like to serve them with some warm pita and a refreshing salad—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 beef gives a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but be aware these may be drier, so adding a bit more olive oil can help.
Onion & Garlic: Finely grating the onion helps it melt into the mixture, adding moisture. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using shallots or green onions. For a garlic substitute, you can use garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove).
Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds brightness, while mint brings a refreshing taste. If fresh herbs are hard to find, dried versions work. Use about a tablespoon for the parsley and mint each, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Spices: Cumin and coriander are key for that authentic flavor. If you’re out of one, you can double up on the other. Cinnamon can be used as a substitution for allspice if needed, as they share warm notes.
How Do I Make Sure My Kebabs Stay Together on the Skewers?
Creating stable kebabs means focusing on both the mixing and the molding. When you’re combining the ingredients, really mix everything well; this helps the proteins bind together. Here’s how to mold them properly:
- Divide the mixture evenly into 8 portions for uniform cooking.
- Mold each piece tightly around the skewer, making sure it’s compact. Slight pressure helps them stay together.
- For best results, avoid trying to reshape them once on the skewer – this can cause them to fall apart while cooking.
Also, if using wooden skewers, soaking them for 30 minutes reduces the risk of burning. This simple step can save your kebabs and keep them on the skewers!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook on the grill or under the broiler. With a little resting time afterwards, you can have delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs on your table in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint (if you’re using it), cumin, coriander, paprika, allspice, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are combined well; you can use your hands for this part. It’s fun and gives you a great mix!
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into 8 equal portions. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer, forming a long sausage shape. Press each kebab gently but firmly to ensure that they stick together neatly.
3. Preheat and Brush:
Now, let’s get the heat going! Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using an oven, preheat the broiler. Lightly brush the kebabs with olive oil to help them not stick while cooking and add a bit of flavor.
4. Cook the Kebabs:
Place the kebabs on the grill or under the broiler. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to be browned on the outside and cooked to your liking on the inside. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Rest and Serve:
After cooking, take the kebabs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve your Beef Kafta Kebabs with hummus, diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Don’t forget to garnish with parsley for a fresh touch!
Enjoy your tasty and fragrant Beef Kafta Kebabs, perfect for a delightful meal!
Can I Use Ground Lamb Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground lamb is a fantastic substitute for ground beef in kafta kebabs, adding a richer flavor. Just reduce the fat content by choosing lamb that is around 80/20, similar to the beef recommendation. The cooking time will remain the same.
How Do I Make the Kebabs Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the kebab mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just mold the mixture onto skewers shortly before grilling to keep them fresh. If you want to freeze them, wrap the formed kebabs in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps prevent drying out!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Mix?
Yes, you can certainly add vegetables like finely grated zucchini or bell peppers for additional moisture and flavor! Just make sure to adjust the meat mixture to maintain the right consistency—too many veggies can make the mixture too loose to hold shape on the skewers.
