Lebanese cuisine is a celebration of bold flavors, fragrant spices, and fresh ingredients. Among its iconic dishes, Kafta Kebabs hold a special place as a staple of Middle Eastern cooking. These skewers of seasoned ground beef, infused with parsley, onion, and a blend of aromatic spices, are perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
PrintAuthentic Lebanese Kafta Kebabs
🍢✨ Bring the flavors of the Middle East to your table with Authentic Lebanese Kafta Kebabs! 🌿🥩 Juicy, spiced ground meat mixed with fresh parsley, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices, grilled to perfection. Perfect for pairing with hummus, pita, or a fresh salad for an unforgettable feast! 😍🔥
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- Total Time: 28 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 medium yellow onion, quartered
- 1 cup fresh parsley, washed and patted dry
- 600 grams lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon seven spice blend
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Parsley and Onion
- In a food processor, combine the quartered onion and fresh parsley.
- Pulse the mixture until finely chopped, but avoid over-processing to a paste. This ensures the mixture retains its texture and doesn’t release too much moisture.
2. Mix the Kafta Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the lean ground beef.
- Incorporate the finely chopped parsley and onion mixture.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, seven spice blend, and cayenne pepper.
- Using clean hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined. This step ensures the flavors are well distributed throughout the meat.
3. Shape the Kebabs
- Take a handful of the meat mixture and mold it around a skewer.
- Shape the meat into an elongated, sausage-like form, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Ensure the meat adheres firmly to the skewer to prevent it from falling apart during grilling.
4. Grill the Kebabs
- Prepare the Grill: If using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to become hot and evenly distributed.
- Cook the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 4 minutes on one side. Flip the skewers and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and lightly charred.
- The internal temperature of the kebabs should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredient Tips:
- Use Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley is essential for the vibrant flavor and signature green flecks in the kebabs. Avoid dried parsley for this recipe.
- Lean Beef: Lean ground beef prevents excessive greasiness while maintaining the kebabs’ moist texture.
Shaping Tips:
- Chill the Mixture: If the meat mixture feels too soft or sticky, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before shaping the kebabs.
- Firm Grip: When shaping the kebabs, ensure the meat is packed firmly around the skewer to avoid crumbling during grilling.
Grilling Tips:
- Oil the Grill: A light coat of oil on the grill grates prevents sticking and helps achieve those signature grill marks.
- Keep Turning: Avoid overcooking by turning the skewers just once during grilling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
In just under 30 minutes, you can bring the flavors of Lebanon to your table with this simple yet authentic recipe. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, looking for a weeknight dinner, or simply craving a taste of something exotic, these Kafta Kebabs are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Kafta Kebabs:
- 1 medium yellow onion, quartered
- 1 cup fresh parsley, washed and patted dry
- 600 grams lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon seven spice blend
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Parsley and Onion
- In a food processor, combine the quartered onion and fresh parsley.
- Pulse the mixture until finely chopped, but avoid over-processing to a paste. This ensures the mixture retains its texture and doesn’t release too much moisture.
2. Mix the Kafta Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the lean ground beef.
- Incorporate the finely chopped parsley and onion mixture.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, seven spice blend, and cayenne pepper.
- Using clean hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined. This step ensures the flavors are well distributed throughout the meat.
3. Shape the Kebabs
- Take a handful of the meat mixture and mold it around a skewer.
- Shape the meat into an elongated, sausage-like form, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Ensure the meat adheres firmly to the skewer to prevent it from falling apart during grilling.
4. Grill the Kebabs
- Prepare the Grill: If using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to become hot and evenly distributed.
- Cook the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 4 minutes on one side. Flip the skewers and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and lightly charred.
- The internal temperature of the kebabs should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately.
Flavors, Textures, and Aromas
Kafta Kebabs boast a medley of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note, while the onion provides subtle sweetness and moisture. The seven spice blend—a cornerstone of Lebanese cooking—imbues the kebabs with warmth and depth, balancing the savory richness of the ground beef.
On the grill, the kebabs develop a slightly smoky aroma and a beautifully charred exterior, while remaining juicy and tender inside. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of spice, herb, and meat that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides.
Tips for Perfect Kafta Kebabs
Ingredient Tips:
- Use Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley is essential for the vibrant flavor and signature green flecks in the kebabs. Avoid dried parsley for this recipe.
- Lean Beef: Lean ground beef prevents excessive greasiness while maintaining the kebabs’ moist texture.
Shaping Tips:
- Chill the Mixture: If the meat mixture feels too soft or sticky, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before shaping the kebabs.
- Firm Grip: When shaping the kebabs, ensure the meat is packed firmly around the skewer to avoid crumbling during grilling.
Grilling Tips:
- Oil the Grill: A light coat of oil on the grill grates prevents sticking and helps achieve those signature grill marks.
- Keep Turning: Avoid overcooking by turning the skewers just once during grilling.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Variations:
- Ground Lamb: Substitute ground beef with lamb for a richer, more traditional flavor.
- Spice Mix Alternatives: If seven spice blend isn’t available, use a combination of allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a similar flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with a mixture of ground chickpeas and lentils for a plant-based twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Fresh Salad: Serve the kebabs alongside a fresh Lebanese salad such as tabbouleh or fattoush.
- On a Bed of Rice: Pair with fragrant basmati rice or spiced pilaf for a complete meal.
- As a Wrap: Stuff the kebabs into warm pita bread with hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables for a portable, flavor-packed wrap.
- Dips and Sides: Offer garlic sauce, tzatziki, or a tangy yogurt dip for extra creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 28 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with simple, pantry-friendly spices and fresh ingredients.
- Bold Flavors: The seven spice blend, parsley, and onion create a flavor profile that’s both earthy and refreshing.
- Versatile: Works well as a main course, in wraps, or as part of a mezze platter.
- Authentic and Homemade: Skip takeout and enjoy the satisfaction of making restaurant-quality kebabs at home.
Kafta Kebabs are more than just a dish—they’re a celebration of Lebanese culture and cuisine. With their rich history, bold flavors, and easy preparation, these kebabs are a must-try for food enthusiasts everywhere. Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will leave you craving more.
Pair your freshly grilled kebabs with your favorite sides, invite your loved ones, and enjoy a feast of flavors straight from the heart of Lebanon. 🌿🍢