Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes, these grilled beef Kafta Kebabs are an easy Lebanese recipe requiring only a handful of basic ingredients! Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish brings vibrant flavors and a delightful grilling experience right to your table. The unique blend of spices and fresh herbs highlights the beef, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 28 minutes, you can have delicious kebabs ready in no time.
• Flavorful Spices: The combination of seven spice and cayenne gives these kafta kebabs a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with pita bread, salads, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these delightful kafta kebabs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Grill (charcoal or gas)

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool ensures that your onion and parsley are finely chopped, creating a uniform mixture that enhances the flavor.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl gives you enough space to combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Kebabs

• 1 medium yellow onion (quartered)
• 1 cup fresh parsley (washed and patted dry)
• 600 grams ground beef (lean)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon seven spice (pre-mixed spice blend)
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne (more to taste)

How to Make Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Mixture

1. In the bowl of your food processor, add quartered onion and fresh parsley.
2. Process by pulsing the ingredients until finely chopped.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. To a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, finely chopped parsley and onion mixture, and all of the spices.
2. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Kebabs

1. Take some of the mixture with your hands and mold it around the skewer.
2. Ensure that the meat around the skewer is about an inch to an inch and a half thick for even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

1. Prepare your charcoal or gas grill.
2. If using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high and brush the grill with oil.
3. Place skewers of kafta on the grill.
4. Cook one side for about 4 minutes before turning it over and cooking for another 4 minutes or until the meat is cooked through.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once cooked, serve your delicious kafta kebabs hot off the grill with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Kafta Kebabs are delicious and versatile, making them perfect for various serving occasions. Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy your grilled beef Kafta Kebabs.

With Fresh Salad

• Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice that complements the flavors of the kebabs.
• Fattoush: A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, and crispy pita chips, tossed in a tangy sumac dressing.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tahini Sauce: A creamy sauce made from sesame paste that adds a rich flavor to the kebabs.
• Garlic Yogurt Sauce: A cool and tangy yogurt-based dip that balances the spices in the kebabs.

In a Pita Wrap

• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread makes a great wrap for kafta, allowing you to add fresh veggies and sauces for a convenient meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the kafta with herbs and sauces.

How to Perfect Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Creating delicious Kafta Kebabs is easy with these helpful tips. Follow them to ensure your kebabs are flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Choose Lean Meat: Use lean ground beef for juicy kebabs without excess fat. This helps maintain texture during grilling.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the meat tender. Overmixing can lead to tough kebabs.
• Let It Rest: Allow the meat mixture to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before shaping. This enhances flavor and texture.
• Use Skewers Wisely: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents burning on the grill.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Grill for about 4 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Kafta Kebabs enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs makes a delightful side that absorbs flavors well.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the savory kebabs.
3. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip is a classic Middle Eastern companion that adds richness to every bite of kafta.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices can be enjoyed as a bed for your kebabs, making each bite wholesome.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled complements the smokiness of kafta perfectly.
6. Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush): Smoky eggplant dip adds depth of flavor and pairs beautifully with kafta’s spices.
7. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles provide a nice crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the kebabs.
8. Quinoa Tabouli: A twist on traditional tabbouleh using quinoa instead of bulgur gives a protein-packed alternative that’s refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kafta Kebabs, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make the kebabs tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not using enough spices: Under-seasoning can lead to bland kebabs. Ensure you measure spices accurately for maximum flavor.
• Inconsistent skewer thickness: Unevenly shaped kebabs cook unevenly. Aim for an even thickness of about an inch and a half around each skewer.
• Skipping the grill prep: Not preheating or oiling the grill can cause sticking. Always preheat and lightly grease your grill to avoid this issue.
• Incorrect cooking time: Overcooking can dry out the meat. Monitor closely; aim for 4 minutes on each side for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Kafta Kebabs Recipe

• Place cooked kebabs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Kafta Kebabs Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Kafta Kebabs:

What is the best meat for Kafta Kebabs Recipe?

Ground beef is ideal, but you can also use lamb or turkey for different flavors.

Can I prepare Kafta Kebabs ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients and shape them into kebabs a day in advance. Just refrigerate until ready to grill.

How do I know when my Kafta Kebabs are done?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked. The meat should be firm but not dry.

Can I use vegetables in my Kafta Kebabs Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers or onion can add extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Kafta Kebabs Recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, offering rich flavors and easy preparation. It’s perfect for grilling season or family dinners. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch!

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Kafta Kebabs

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• Author: Claire
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Elevate your weeknight dinners with these mouthwatering Kafta Kebabs, ready in under 30 minutes! This easy Lebanese recipe features juicy ground beef infused with a delightful blend of spices and fresh herbs. Perfect for grilling enthusiasts and those seeking a quick yet flavorful meal, these kebabs are versatile enough to pair with pita bread, salads, or grilled vegetables. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family night, these beef kafta skewers promise to impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 600 grams ground beef (lean)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon seven spice blend
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Instructions

1. In a food processor, pulse the quartered onion and parsley until finely chopped.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion-parsley mixture, salt, black pepper, seven spice blend, and cayenne. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Mold the mixture around skewers to form kebabs about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil it. Grill the kebabs for about 4 minutes per side until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your choice of sides like salad or dipping sauces.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 kebabs (150g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Let the meat mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before shaping to enhance flavor. Feel free to customize your skewers by adding chopped bell peppers or other veggies for added nutrition.