This Easy Traditional Lebanese Kafta is a tasty mix of ground meat and fresh herbs, grilled until golden. It’s juicy, aromatic, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any meal!
I love serving it with pita bread and a side of tangy yogurt or salad. It’s a hit at parties, and trust me, your friends will ask for seconds! Who can resist a good kafta? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I love using a mix of ground beef and lamb for richer flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. Just keep in mind that these meats are leaner and may require less cooking time.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use shallots or even onion powder as a substitute, but you’ll miss the texture onions provide.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is a must for freshness, while mint adds a delightful twist. If mint isn’t available, don’t worry! Just double the parsley or add a dash of dried mint if you have it on hand.
Spices: Allspice and cinnamon give a warm flavor. If you can’t find allspice, you can use a blend of nutmeg and cloves. I prefer a lighter touch of cinnamon for a hint of sweetness!
How Do I Shape Perfect Kafta on Skewers?
Getting the shape just right can be tricky, but it’s key for even cooking! Here’s how to do it easily:
- Take a portion of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Press the ball around the skewer, shaping it into an oval that’s about 1 inch thick.
- Make sure to press firmly, so it sticks well and won’t fall off while grilling.
- For extra flavor, you can also add some more spices to the surface before cooking.
This technique helps each piece cook evenly and stay moist—no one wants dry kafta!
Easy Traditional Lebanese Kafta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (or a mix)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
- Olive oil, for brushing and drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes for a quick and delicious meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, parsley, mint (if you decide to use it), minced garlic, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything well until it’s evenly distributed. This is where all the magic happens, so mix thoroughly!
2. Shape the Kafta:
Divide the meat mixture into 6-8 equal portions. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer, forming an elongated oval shape about 1 inch thick. Make sure to press firmly; this will help the kafta hold on to the skewer while it cooks.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. Brush the grill lightly with olive oil or use a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Kafta:
Carefully place the kafta skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely charred and cooked through. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the kafta from the grill, drizzle a little olive oil on top, and sprinkle some extra fresh parsley for garnish if you like. Serve your delicious kafta hot with warm pita bread, pickled turnips, and a side of garlic yogurt sauce or tahini sauce. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Traditional Lebanese Kafta
Can I Use Different Meats for Kafta?
Yes! While traditional kafta is often made with beef or lamb, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that these leaner meats may require less cooking time to avoid drying out.
Can I Make Kafta Without Skewers?
Absolutely! If you don’t have skewers, you can shape the kafta into patties and grill them directly on the grill or in a grill pan. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster without the skewers.
How Do I Store Leftover Kafta?
Leftover kafta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kafta in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly!
What Can I Serve with Kafta?
Kafta is delicious served with warm pita bread, pickled turnips, or a refreshing salad. For a complete meal, you can add some rice or couscous on the side along with a garlic yogurt or tahini sauce for dipping!
