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, barbecues, or gatherings, this dish combines rich flavors and fragrant spices that tantalize your taste buds. These kebabs not only deliver on flavor but are also a versatile option that pairs well with various sides, making them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Kafta Kebabs recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh parsley and spices infuses the beef with a delicious depth of flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these kebabs with pita bread, salads, or rice for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Healthy Protein Source: With lean ground beef, each serving packs in protein while being low in carbs and calories.
• Grill or Skillet: Whether you prefer grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe adapts easily to your preferred cooking method.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Kafta Kebabs, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool saves time by finely chopping onions and parsley quickly, ensuring even distribution in your mixture.
• Skewers: They provide structure to your kebabs, allowing them to cook evenly on the grill.
• Grill: A good grill imparts a smoky flavor to the meat that enhances the overall taste of the Kafta Kebabs.

Ingredients

Ready in under 30 minutes, these grilled beef Kafta Kebabs are an easy Lebanese recipe requiring only a handful of basic 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onion and Parsley

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

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

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

Step 3: Form the Kebabs

To form the kebabs, take some of the mixture with your hands and mold it around the skewer. The meat around the skewer should be about an inch to an inch and a half thick.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

Prepare your charcoal or gas grill. If using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high and brush the grill with oil. Place skewers of kafta on the grill. 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

Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade Kafta Kebabs!

How to Serve Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Serving Kafta Kebabs is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of Lebanese cuisine. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy your kebabs.

Wrap It Up

• Pita Bread: Place the Kafta Kebabs in warm pita bread for a delicious wrap.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that adds crunch.

Add Some Freshness

• Tzatziki Sauce: Serve with this yogurt-based sauce for a refreshing dip.
• Hummus: Pair with creamy hummus for a Middle-Eastern touch.

Garnish It Right

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and flavor.
• Sliced Tomatoes and Onions: Serve with fresh veggies for added texture and taste.

How to Perfect Kafta Kebabs Recipe

To make sure your Kafta Kebabs turn out just right, keep these tips in mind.

• Boldly Season the Meat: Don’t shy away from spices; they make all the difference in flavor.
• Boldly Mix Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are mixed well for even seasoning throughout the meat.
• Boldly Shape Skewers: Mold the meat firmly around the skewer to prevent it from falling apart while grilling.
• Boldly Preheat Your Grill: A properly preheated grill will give your kebabs a lovely sear and prevent sticking.

Best Side Dishes for Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Kafta Kebabs can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices complements the savory flavors of the kebabs perfectly.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrients.
4. Couscous: A light grain that absorbs flavors beautifully; serve it warm or cold.
5. Baba Ganoush: This smoky eggplant dip pairs wonderfully with the spiced meat.
6. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, tomatoes, radishes, and crispy pita chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kafta Kebabs, small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using too much spice: Overloading on spices can overpower the flavor of the meat. Stick to the recommended amounts in the Kafta Kebabs Recipe for balanced seasoning.
• Skipping the food processor: Not chopping the onion and parsley finely can result in uneven texture. Use a food processor for a consistent mixture that binds well with the ground beef.
• Not preheating the grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the skewers for optimal grilling.
• Making kebabs too thick: If Kafta Kebabs are molded too thick, they may not cook through properly. Aim for a thickness of about an inch to ensure even cooking and a juicy texture.
• Overcooking the meat: Cooking for too long can dry out the kebabs. Keep an eye on them and aim for about 8 minutes total cooking time for tender results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Kafta Kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Kafta Kebabs Recipe

• Place uncooked or cooked kebabs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Kafta Kebabs Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place kebabs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a little oil, and cook kebabs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Kafta Kebabs Recipe?

Kafta Kebabs are flavorful skewers made from ground beef mixed with spices and herbs. They are grilled to perfection, offering a delicious taste of Lebanese cuisine.

How do I know when my Kafta Kebabs are done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer; it should read at least 160°F (70°C) for ground beef. Alternatively, they should be firm and no longer pink inside.

Can I use other meats in my Kafta Kebabs Recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can also substitute ground lamb or chicken based on your preference.

How can I customize my Kafta Kebabs?

Feel free to add other ingredients like minced garlic or chili peppers for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro!

Final Thoughts

This Kafta Kebabs Recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, these kebabs are versatile enough to suit various tastes. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite spices or herbs! Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones!

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Grilled Beef Kafta Kebabs

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Grilled beef Kafta Kebabs are a delicious and easy-to-make Lebanese dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknight dinners to lively barbecues. In just 30 minutes, you can create flavorful skewers that combine lean ground beef with aromatic spices and fresh herbs like parsley and onion. These kebabs are not only rich in taste but also versatile, pairing beautifully with pita bread, salads, or rice. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a skillet indoors, this simple recipe ensures you’ll impress your family and friends with minimal effort.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (total of approximately 8 kebabs) 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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 and parsley mixture, salt, black pepper, seven spice blend, and cayenne. Mix thoroughly by hand.
3. Mold the mixture around skewers to form kebabs about an inch thick.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kebabs for approximately 4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 263
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 563mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added flavor, mix in minced garlic or chili peppers to the meat. Experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro for unique variations.