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Lebanese Kafta Recipe

Lebanese Kafta Recipe

Enjoy an authentic Lebanese Kafta recipe featuring juicy, spiced meat skewers infused with fresh parsley and traditional Middle Eastern spices. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare, this dish brings the rich flavors of Lebanese cuisine to your home, ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or grilling occasions.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 skewers 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, grated or finely minced
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • Olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: Combine ground beef with finely chopped parsley, grated onion, minced garlic (if using), ground allspice, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together without being overworked.
  2. Shape the Kafta Skewers: Divide the meat mixture into equal portions based on your preferred size. Moisten your hands to prevent sticking, then mold each portion around a skewer into a long, flat cylinder, pressing firmly to ensure it adheres well.
  3. Preheat the Grill or Pan: Heat your grill to medium-high or place a heavy-duty grill pan over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
  4. Cook the Kafta: Place skewers on the grill or pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning gently to brown all sides evenly. Cook until the meat is fully cooked yet still tender and juicy.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the kafta from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes to lock in juices. Serve hot with your favorite sides, garnishes, or sauces.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality ground beef or lamb for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Keep your hands wet while shaping kafta to prevent meat from sticking.
  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, which can make the kafta dense.
  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
  • Adjust seasoning by frying a small portion of the mixture to taste before shaping all skewers.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Lebanese
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 skewer
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Lebanese Kafta, Middle Eastern meat skewers, grilled kafta, spiced beef skewers, traditional Lebanese recipe