Beef Kafta Kebabs are juicy and flavorful skewers made from ground beef mixed with spices and herbs. Perfect for grilling, these kebabs are sure to be a hit at any barbecue!
What I love most is how easy they are to make—just mix, shape, and grill. Plus, they are great served with some fresh veggies and warm pita. Who doesn’t love a good kebab night? 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that they might need a little extra moisture, maybe adding a bit of olive oil.
Onion: Finely grating the onion helps it blend into the meat mixture, adding moisture and flavor. If onions aren’t your thing, grated zucchini can also work as a substitute!
Herbs (Parsley & Cilantro): Fresh herbs add freshness to the kebabs. If you can’t find fresh cilantro, try using more parsley or a hint of dried herbs like oregano for a different flavor.
Spices: Cumin and coriander are key flavors in kafta. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For an interesting twist, smoked paprika can also bring depth to your dish.
Wooden Skewers: Soaking the skewers prevents them from burning on the grill. If you prefer, metal skewers are a solid alternative and can be reused.
How Do You Ensure the Kebabs Hold Together?
One common challenge is making sure your kebabs don’t fall apart while cooking. Here’s how you can tackle this:
- Mix the ingredients well to distribute everything evenly.
- When forming the kebabs, compact the meat mixture firmly around the skewer, as this will help them hold their shape while cooking.
- It’s also a good idea to let them rest for a few minutes after forming before grilling. This helps firm up their shape!
Lastly, avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Enjoy your grilling!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for extra juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. In total, that’s around 25 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In the bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro (if you’re using it), ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, ground cinnamon, and allspice. Get your hands in there and mix everything together until all the ingredients are well combined. This is where the flavors come together!
2. Form the Kebabs:
Next, it’s time to shape your kebabs! Divide the meat mixture into equal portions—4 to 6, depending on how large you want them. Take one portion and mold it around a soaked skewer, pressing it firmly so it stays together. Repeat with the rest of the mixture until all skewers are filled. You want them to be nice and secure!
3. Grill the Kebabs:
Now, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, lightly brush the kebabs with olive oil to help them not stick. Once the grill is hot, place the kebabs on it. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when they’re browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 160°F (or 71°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the kebabs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve your Beef Kafta Kebabs on a bed of hummus, topped with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese if you like. Don’t forget the pita bread on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious homemade kebabs!
Can I Use Ground Lamb Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground lamb is a great substitute for ground beef in kafta kebabs and will lend a rich flavor. Just be aware that lamb might render a bit more fat, so you may want to adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid undercooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Wooden Skewers?
If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal skewers work perfectly as well. Just ensure they are well-oiled before adding the kebabs to prevent sticking. If using bamboo skewers, soaking them in water for 30 minutes is crucial to prevent burning on the grill.
How Can I Store Leftover Kebabs?
To store leftovers, let the kebabs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or on the grill over low heat until heated through, avoiding the microwave if you want to keep them firm.
Can I Freeze The Kebabs Before Cooking?
Yes! Before grilling, you can freeze the formed kebabs on the skewers. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
