Lebanese Kafta is a tasty grilled dish made from spiced ground beef or lamb mixed with herbs. It’s flavorful and easy to make, perfect for a cozy dinner!
These meat skewers are the life of the party! I love serving them with fresh veggies and pita bread. Just a heads up, you might want to make extra—you’ll want seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: This recipe can be made with either beef or lamb. I personally prefer lamb for its rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken works, too, if you want a lighter option.
Onion: A small onion, grated, is crucial for moisture and sweetness. If you’re short on fresh onions, try onion powder, but use about half the amount to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds a fresh and earthy flavor. If you can’t find fresh parsley, dried parsley can substitute, but use less—about a tablespoon. Cilantro can also work if you like its stronger taste.
Spices: Cumin, allspice, and cinnamon create a unique flavor profile. If you don’t have allspice, a mix of nutmeg and cloves can be a good alternative. For heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
How Do I Shape the Kafta to Stay on the Skewers?
Molding the kafta around the skewers correctly ensures they stay intact while cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your hands are slightly wet to prevent sticking.
- Divide the mixture into four equal parts—this helps with even cooking.
- Press each portion firmly around the skewer, shaping it into a long, cylindrical form. This way, it will hold well while grilling.
- Ensure there’s no gap between the kafta and the skewer, which helps them cook evenly.
Grilling can sometimes stress skewered items. Make sure to turn them gently to prevent breaking!
How to Make Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
For Serving:
- Hummus
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Olive oil and lemon juice (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook on the grill. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to have delicious Lebanese kafta ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
Start by taking a mixing bowl and combining the ground beef or lamb with the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until all the ingredients are well blended. Don’t be shy, get in there and really mix it up!
2. Shape the Kafta:
Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Take one portion and mold it around a skewer, forming a long, cylindrical shape. Press the meat firmly onto the skewer to make sure it holds together. Repeat this step for the remaining portions with the other skewers.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Now, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. To avoid the kafta sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil. This little step will make a big difference!
4. Grill the Kafta:
Once the grill is hot, place the kafta skewers on it. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally so that they brown nicely on all sides and are fully cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they look delicious and smell amazing!
5. Prepare the Serving Platter:
While the kafta is cooking, get your serving platter ready. Spread a layer of hummus on the base of the platter. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion around the hummus. It should look colorful and inviting!
6. Assemble and Garnish:
Once the kafta are grilled to perfection, place the skewers on top of the salad on your platter. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, and drizzle some olive oil and fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Lebanese kafta hot, and feel free to include some warm pita bread on the side for a complete meal. Dive in and enjoy the wonderful flavors of your homemade kafta!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative! However, keep in mind that it may not hold together as firmly as beef or lamb, so be sure to really press the mixture around the skewers. Cooking time may also vary slightly, so check for doneness at 8-10 minutes.
How Should I Store Leftover Kafta?
Store any leftover kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Kafta Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the kafta mixture a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. This can enhance the flavors and make prep even easier!
What Vegetables Can I Add to the Serving Platter?
You can definitely mix it up! Consider adding roasted bell peppers, radishes, or olives for extra flavor and variety. Just make sure the vegetables are fresh and well-prepared to complement the kafta!
