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
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.
Notes
Substitute ground turkey for leaner kafta.
Use ground lamb for a traditional variation.
For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas or tofu with similar spices.
Try adding finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the mixture for added moisture and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
