Name: Kafta (BBQ)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487896H13M26S
Total time: PT-487896H13M26S
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, grated; ½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ¼ teaspoon ground allspice; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 6 wooden or metal skewers

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Lebanese Flavor: This recipe offers an authentic Lebanese taste that will transport you to the heart of the Mediterranean. The blend of spices like cayenne, allspice, and parsley adds depth and freshness to the ground beef.
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have tender, juicy kafta skewers ready to serve. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend BBQs.
Versatile: While best enjoyed on skewers, this meat mixture is incredibly versatile and can be used for meatballs, meatloaf, burgers, and more.
Healthy and Lean: Using lean ground beef keeps the kafta flavorful without the excess fat, making it a healthier choice for a BBQ dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Kafta Mixture:

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
1 medium onion, grated
½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Grilling:

6 wooden or metal skewers

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat an outdoor grill to high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Kafta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, chopped parsley, cayenne pepper, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Mixture

Divide the mixture into 6 portions. Take each portion and press it around the end of a skewer, forming a log shape about 1 inch thick and 6 inches long.

Step 4: Grill the Kafta

Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is no longer pink and is cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the kafta from the grill and serve immediately. It can be enjoyed as is or served with flatbread, hummus, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add More Spices: Experiment with other spices like cinnamon or cumin for a different flavor profile.
Use Ground Lamb: For a more traditional variation, swap the ground beef for ground lamb for a richer flavor.
Make It Veggie-Friendly: Use plant-based ground meat or make vegetable patties with a similar spice mixture for a vegetarian option.

storage/reheating

Storing Leftovers: Store leftover kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or place on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked kafta for later. Simply wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, though it may have a slightly different texture and flavor.

Do I have to use skewers?

No, if you prefer, you can shape the kafta into patties and grill them directly on the grill without skewers.

Can I cook kafta in the oven?

Yes, you can bake kafta in the oven. Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

How do I know when kafta is done?

Kafta is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). It should no longer be pink in the center.

Can I make the kafta mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the kafta mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate it until ready to form the skewers and grill.

Can I freeze the kafta mixture?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked kafta mixture. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

Can I make this recipe with ground lamb?

Yes, ground lamb is often used in Lebanese kafta and adds a delicious richness to the dish.

Can I add vegetables to the kafta?

Yes, finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots can be mixed into the kafta for added moisture and nutrition.

How can I serve kafta?

Kafta is often served with flatbreads, pita, hummus, or a simple tabbouleh salad. It can also be paired with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Is kafta gluten-free?

Yes, the traditional kafta recipe is gluten-free, as it contains no breadcrumbs or wheat products.

Conclusion

Kafta (BBQ) is a wonderfully versatile and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at your next BBQ or dinner gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. Whether served on skewers or as patties, the rich, spiced flavor of the kafta is perfect for any occasion. Give this Lebanese classic a try, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among so many!

Kafta (BBQ)

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Author: Emma
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Description

Kafta (BBQ) is a flavorful Lebanese dish made from ground beef mixed with fragrant spices and herbs, then grilled to perfection. Served on skewers, this dish offers a smoky, savory delight that’s perfect for BBQs and gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Kafta Mixture:

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef

1 medium onion, grated

½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

¼ teaspoon ground allspice

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Grilling:

6 wooden or metal skewers

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Instructions

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.
Prepare the Kafta Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, chopped parsley, cayenne pepper, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
Shape the Mixture: Divide the mixture into 6 portions. Shape each portion into a log around the end of a skewer, about 1 inch thick and 6 inches long.
Grill the Kafta: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
Serve: Remove the kafta from the grill and serve immediately with flatbread, hummus, or a fresh salad.