Lebanese Kafta Recipe

Lebanese Kafta Recipe

Kafta is like a meatball, but flavored with favorite Lebanese seasonings and formed on a skewer, then grilled—one of the many grill recipes the Lebanese are famous for! Kafta can be made with ground lamb or beef.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef

    85/15 fat content

  • 2 tablespoons grated yellow onion
  • 1 clove garlic

    minced

  • 3 tablespoons parsley

    flat or curly, finely chopped

  • 3 tablespoons mint

    finely chopped, plus more for finishing

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon sumac
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon crushed dried mint or Mint Salt
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Few grinds black pepper

    about 1/4 teaspoon

Directions

  1. 1

    In a medium bowl, combine the beef with the onion, parsley, mint, salt, pepper, sumac, cinnamon and crushed dried mint. Chill for at least one hour and up to one day.

  2. 2

    Heat the grill to medium. Coat the grates with oil.

  3. 3

    Use 1/2 cup of the meat mixture to form an oblong football shape. Pierce lengthwise with a 12-inch or smaller skewer. Continue to shape the kafta until it is longer and thinner, about 6 inches by 2 inches, on the skewer. Repeat this process with the rest of the meat.

  4. 4

    Place the skewers crosswise on the grill grates. Lower the lid and cook for about 3 minutes, or until golden with char marks on the bottom. Turn the kafta skewers and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the meat reaches 135°F.

  5. 5

    Remove the kafta from the grill to a platter or cutting board. Brush the kafta with olive oil and dust with chopped mint. Serve immediately.

Lebanese Kafta Recipe

Lebanese Kafta Recipe

4.8(14)

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Ratings & Reviews

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Based on 14 ratings

maureenabood.com
4.8(14 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving a taste of authentic Lebanese cuisine that’s perfect for grilling season? This Lebanese Kafta recipe delivers savory, aromatic flavors in a simple, satisfying dish that's a staple in many Middle Eastern homes. It’s an ideal way to bring a new flavor profile to your weeknight rotation or your next backyard cookout.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to truly flavorful kafta lies in its distinctive spice blend and fresh herbs. The combination of bright sumac, warm cinnamon, fresh parsley, and fragrant mint, all mingled with rich ground beef, creates a harmony of tastes that is both robust and refreshing. Grilling these skewers imparts a beautiful smoky char, adding another layer of depth that sets kafta apart from a simple meatball.

What to Expect Prepare for a feast of the senses. You'll enjoy the irresistible aroma of grilling spices wafting through your kitchen or backyard. Each bite of kafta promises a juicy, tender interior, thanks to the 85/15 ground beef, bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs and the subtle tang of sumac. The texture is firm yet yielding, making it a delightful experience whether enjoyed straight off the grill or nestled in warm pita bread. This recipe makes an impressive centerpiece while being surprisingly straightforward to prepare.

Customization & Variations One of the beauties of kafta is its adaptability. While this recipe uses ground beef, you can easily swap in ground lamb for a richer, more traditional flavor, or even a combination of both. Feel free to adjust the amount of fresh mint or parsley to suit your preference, or experiment with other herbs like cilantro for a different twist. If you don't have fresh mint on hand, the crushed dried mint or Mint Salt specified in the ingredients can be a fantastic substitute, offering concentrated flavor.

Serving & Context Lebanese Kafta is wonderfully versatile. Serve these flavorful skewers as a main course with a simple side salad, rice pilaf, or warm pita bread and a dollop of yogurt sauce. They are perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or as a star attraction at your next barbecue.

Frequently Asked Questions