Lebanese Kafta is a tasty dish made with ground beef or lamb mixed with herbs and spices, formed into flavorful skewers. It’s perfect for grilling!
Trust me, there’s something special about that smoky flavor. I often serve it with pita bread and salad. It’s a family favorite for sure! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both are delicious! I lean towards ground lamb for a richer flavor, but beef is also great. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead.
Onion: Finely grating the onion helps it blend right into the meat. If you’d like a milder flavor, shallots or green onions can work, too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder is a good substitute, just use less since it’s more concentrated.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint add freshness. If you can’t find fresh mint, a bit of dried mint will do, though fresh is better! You could also experiment with cilantro.
Spices: The combination of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon gives a warm depth. Ground cardamom could be a fun twist if you’re up for it.
How Do You Shape the Kafta Skewers Without Them Falling Apart?
Shaping kafta skewers can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy! After mixing all your ingredients, work with slightly wet hands; this helps prevent sticking.
- Divide your mixture into equal portions, about the size of a golf ball.
- Flatten each ball slightly, then press it around the skewer, forming a long, oval shape. Make sure to seal it well to avoid falling apart while grilling.
- Keep a consistent thickness for even cooking.
Finally, don’t skip the olive oil brush! It not only prevents sticking but helps create a nice crust. Happy grilling!
How to Make Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
For Serving:
- 1 cup hummus
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lebanese Kafta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to grill. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and optional mint. Then, add in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together using your hands until it’s fully combined. It should feel like a nice, cohesive mixture.
2. Shaping the Kafta:
Next, divide the meat mixture into equal portions. Take each portion and shape it around a skewer, forming elongated patties. Make sure they are well-formed to keep the meat from falling off during grilling.
3. Prepping the Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. To prevent the skewers from sticking, brush them lightly with olive oil. This little step will ensure that your wonderful kafta comes off the grill perfectly!
4. Grilling the Kafta:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the kafta skewers on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely browned and cooked through, so keep an eye on them as they sizzle and start to smell amazing!
5. Preparing the Serving Platter:
While the kafta is grilling, prepare a lovely serving platter! Spread the hummus in the center and arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion around it. This colorful mix makes for a beautiful presentation.
6. Resting the Kafta:
Once your kafta is grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat, making them even more delicious.
7. Serving Time!
Serve the kafta skewers over the hummus. Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and garnish. It looks great and tastes even better!
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your homemade Lebanese Kafta with those fresh veggies and some warm pita bread if you like! It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef or lamb! Just be aware that the texture and flavor will be a bit different. You may want to increase the spices slightly to enhance the flavor. Additionally, because poultry can be leaner, watch your grilling time to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make Kafta Mixture in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the kafta mixture a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. This way, the flavors have time to meld, and it’ll be ready to grill when you are!
How to Store Leftover Kafta?
Store any leftover kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pan-fry them gently over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave in short intervals.
Can I Bake Kafta Instead of Grilling?
Yes! If you prefer to bake the kafta, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they’re cooked through and browned. This method is great for a quick, mess-free option!
