Name: Beef Kafta Kebabs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef (or lamb); 1 cup parsley (lightly packed); 1 each yellow onion (quarter); 3 cloves garlic; 2 teaspoons ground sumac; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon allspice; 0.75 teaspoon ground cumin; 0.5 teaspoon coriander; 0.25 teaspoon white pepper; 0.25 teaspoon cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves; 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 0.125 teaspoon ground cardamom; 0.125 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Introduction to Beef Kafta Kebabs

Why are Beef Kafta Kebabs a Must-Try?

If you're searching for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make, look no further than beef kafta kebabs. This mouthwatering Lebanese-inspired dish brings together a delightful blend of spices, fresh herbs, and savory ground beef, making it an impressive yet approachable recipe for any home cook.

Imagine a summer evening, the grill sizzling away while you prepare to serve these succulent kebabs to friends and family. They’re not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them on their own, nestled in pita bread, or served with fragrant vermicelli rice and a zesty sauce like toum, a traditional Lebanese garlic sauce.

Not only are these kebabs a hit at gatherings, but they’re also a fantastic way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. Ground beef is high in protein, and paired with fresh parsley and onions, you get added nutrients without sacrificing flavor. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.

So, ready to impress? Let’s dive into the beef kafta kebabs recipe and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen! For some tips and tricks on perfecting your grilling technique, check out Serious Eats.

Ingredients for Beef Kafta Kebabs

If you're diving into the delicious world of beef kafta kebabs, you’ll want to make sure you have the right ingredients on hand. The beauty of these kebabs is in their simplicity and the mixture of flavors, making them a go-to option for gatherings or a hearty weekday dinner.

Essential Ingredients

1 pound (90%) lean ground beef: You can also use lamb if you prefer a richer flavor.
1 cup parsley: Fresh and lightly packed for that vibrant flavor.
1 yellow onion: Quartered to mix in seamlessly.
3 cloves garlic: Because who doesn't love garlic?
Spices: Toast your taste buds with:
2 teaspoons ground sumac
1 teaspoon each of kosher salt and allspice
¾ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon coriander
¼ teaspoon each of white pepper, cinnamon, and ground cloves
⅛ teaspoon each of cayenne pepper, ground cardamom, and ground nutmeg

These ingredients come together to create complex flavors in your kafta kebabs. For more tips on using spices, check out The Spice House for insights on enhancing your cooking! Ready to start prepping? Let’s go!

Step-by-step Preparation of Beef Kafta Kebabs

When it comes to preparing beef kafta kebabs, the process is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a delicious dish that everyone will love. Let’s walk through each step, so you can master these tasty kebabs.

Process the Fresh Ingredients

Start by gathering your fresh ingredients. The heart of great beef kafta kebabs lies in their vibrant flavors, which originate from fresh herbs and vegetables. You’ll need to finely chop your parsley, garlic, and onions.

Blend Fresh Ingredients: Place the parsley, quartered onion, and garlic cloves into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse the mixture until it breaks down into tiny pieces—aim for a coarse consistency.
Drain Excess Liquid: After processing, transfer this flavorful mixture to a sieve. Press it down with a silicone spatula to remove any extra liquid. This step ensures your kebabs don’t become soggy. Set the drained mixture aside as you move on to the next steps.

Pulse the Beef and Seasonings

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. The key to delicious beef kafta is in the seasoning.

Combine Ingredients in Food Processor: In the same food processor (no need to wash it yet!), add your ground beef along with all the spices: sumac, salt, allspice, cumin, coriander, white pepper, cinnamon, ground cloves, cayenne pepper, cardamom, and nutmeg.
Blend to Perfection: Pulse the beef and seasonings together until well combined, then add the drained onion mixture. Blitz it for 4-6 pulses until you achieve a slightly pasty but cohesive mixture. This texture is important for binding the kebabs together during cooking.

Shape the Kafta Kebabs

With the mixture ready, it's time to shape your beef kafta kebabs.

Form the Kebabs: Grab a handful of the kafta mixture and mold it around skewers, creating elongated shapes. If you don’t have skewers handy, freehand them into oval patties.
Prepare for Grilling: Place the shaped kebabs on a clean plate. You can typically yield about 10 pieces, perfect for sharing or meal prepping.

Cook the Kafta to Perfection

Cooking your kafta at the right temperature will enhance its flavors beautifully.

Heat Your Grill: Preheat an indoor grill pan or an outdoor grill over medium heat. Spraying the grates with high-heat oil will prevent sticking.
Grill with Care: Place the kebabs on the hot grill. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes in total, flipping them halfway through. The kebabs should be browned and cooked to your desired doneness.

Serve your flavorful beef kafta kebabs warm, paired with a refreshing Shirazi salad and fluffy Lebanese rice pilaf, or stuffed into pitas with a drizzle of homemade toum! Enjoy the rewards of your culinary efforts with friends and family. Happy grilling!

Variations on Beef Kafta Kebabs

Spicy Kafta Kebabs

If you like a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to your beef kafta kebabs mixture. You can also create a zesty marinade combining yogurt, lemon juice, and hot sauce to drizzle over the skewers before grilling. Not only will this amplify the flavor, but it will also pair beautifully with a cooling side dish like cucumber salad or a refreshing yogurt sauce.

Vegetarian-Friendly Kafta Options

For a meat-free twist, consider crafting kafta kebabs using lentils or chickpeas as the base. Blend cooked lentils with finely chopped vegetables, herbs, and spices for a protein-packed alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Grilling or baking these veggie kebabs brings out their delicious, smoky essence, making them a perfect option for meat eaters and vegetarians alike. Check out this chickpea recipe for inspiration!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Beef Kafta Kebabs

When preparing your beef kafta kebabs, remember these handy tips for a perfect outcome:

Proper Drainage: After processing your onion and parsley, draining excess moisture is essential for binding the mixture. This helps shape the kebabs without falling apart on the grill.
Flavorful Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch more cayenne can bring some heat for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Grilling Technique: If using an outdoor grill, ensure it’s preheated and oiled well. This prevents sticking and gives those beautiful char marks.

For more tips on grilling, check out this grilling guide. Enjoy your delicious beef kafta kebabs!

Serving Suggestions for Beef Kafta Kebabs

Beef kafta kebabs are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve them:

Mediterranean Plate: Pair your kebabs with Shirazi salad and Lebanese rice pilaf for a flavorful, well-rounded meal. The freshness of the salad harmonizes beautifully with the rich spices in the kebabs.
Pita Delight: Stuff the kafta kebabs into warm pitas, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and a generous drizzle of toum (Lebanese garlic sauce). It's an easy yet delicious way to enjoy them on the go.
Sided with Dips: Serve with an array of dips like tzatziki for a refreshing contrast. You could also offer a spicy harissa on the side for those who crave an extra kick.

These options not only elevate the kafta experience but also impress your guests. Are you excited to customize your next meal?

Time Breakdown for Beef Kafta Kebabs

Preparation Time
With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll be on your way to delicious beef kafta kebabs in no time! Gather your ingredients, chop your veggies, and mix the spices for a flavorful feast.

Cooking Time
The actual cooking takes only 10 minutes on the grill. It’s a quick process, allowing you to savor the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen or patio.

Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you'll have tender, spiced beef kafta kebabs ready to serve! Whether you're enjoying them with friends or family, this simple yet satisfying dish is sure to impress.

Feel free to check out some tips on grilling the perfect kebabs at Serious Eats for a deeper dive into techniques and flavor enhancements!

Nutritional Facts for Beef Kafta Kebabs

Calories

Each serving of beef kafta kebabs packs about 274 calories, making them a hearty yet lean option for a meal. Perfect for a satisfying dinner that won’t weigh you down!

Protein

With 26 grams of protein per serving, these kebabs are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Who doesn’t want a delicious way to boost their protein intake?

Total Fat

Each serving contains 16 grams of total fat, primarily from the lean ground beef. This balance helps keep the kebab juicy and flavorful, making it a delightful treat! For more details on managing dietary fats, check out resources from the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Beef Kafta Kebabs

Can I use lamb instead of beef for Kafta?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights beef kafta kebabs, ground lamb is a fantastic alternative that can bring its own unique flavor profile. Many traditional Middle Eastern recipes use lamb, which pairs beautifully with the spices in this dish. If you’re a fan of lamb, give it a try—it will still yield juicy, tender kebabs!

What sauce pairs best with Beef Kafta Kebabs?

To elevate your beef kafta kebabs, consider serving them with a homemade toum, a creamy garlic sauce that provides a zesty, bold complement. Additionally, tahini sauce or a simple yogurt cucumber dip can also add a refreshing touch. You can't go wrong with any of these options!

How do I store leftover Beef Kafta Kebabs?

If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely!), simply let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—perfect for a quick meal! Just reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through, and enjoy!

Conclusion on Beef Kafta Kebabs

Beef kafta kebabs are a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether grilled indoors or outdoors, these kebabs are sure to impress. Serve with vermicelli rice or stuffed in pitas, and enjoy the comforting taste of Lebanese cuisine in your own home!