If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine, this Lebanese Kafta Recipe is absolutely a must-try. Juicy, aromatic, and packed with fresh herbs and spices, these kafta patties or kebabs offer a delicious balance of savory meat and zesty seasoning that will delight your taste buds. Whether you grill them or pan-fry them, the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients make this dish a staple you’ll want on repeat in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Lebanese Kafta Recipe is wonderfully straightforward, yet every element is essential to capture the authentic taste and texture. The freshness of the parsley and the punch of the Lebanese 7 spice blend, combined with finely grated onion, all work together to create those unforgettable flavors and juicy consistency.
- Ground beef or lamb: Provides a rich and hearty base, choose beef for a milder flavor or lamb for a more traditional taste.
- Medium onion, finely grated: Adds moisture and sweetness while keeping the kafta tender—be sure to squeeze out excess liquid to avoid it falling apart.
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Delivers a burst of herbal freshness and beautiful green flecks throughout the meat.
- Lebanese 7 spice blend: This signature spice mix infuses the kafta with warm, aromatic notes that define the dish.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the meat and spices perfectly.
- Black pepper: A subtle heat that balances the other seasonings.
- Olive oil: Essential for grilling or frying, it adds a light richness and prevents sticking.
- Optional sliced tomatoes: Grilled alongside the kafta, they provide a juicy, smoky complement.
How to Make Lebanese Kafta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by placing your ground beef or lamb into a large mixing bowl. Add the finely grated onion (don’t forget to squeeze out that excess liquid!), freshly chopped parsley, Lebanese 7 spice blend, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the meat. This step is crucial because it builds the flavorful, juicy foundation of your kafta.
Step 2: Shape the Kafta
Once the mixture is well combined, divide it into equal portions. You can shape each portion into oval patties using your hands, or if you prefer kebabs, mold the meat mixture tightly around skewers. The key here is to press firmly enough so the kafta holds together during cooking but not so hard that the texture becomes dense.
Step 3: Cook the Kafta
If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the kafta lightly with olive oil so they won’t stick to the grates. Place the patties or skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have those lovely char marks that add extra flavor.
Step 4: Pan-Frying Option
Alternatively, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kafta and let them cook for roughly 5 minutes per side, or until browned beautifully and cooked through. This method is great when weather or equipment limits outdoor grilling.
Step 5: Optional Grilled Tomatoes
If you want to add another layer of flavor, slice some tomatoes and place them on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking your kafta. The slight charring and softened texture create a wonderful contrast to the juicy meat.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the kafta from heat and serve hot. Whether you prefer them on their own, accompanied by a fresh salad, wrapped in soft flatbread, or served alongside fluffy rice, this Lebanese Kafta Recipe shines with every bite.
How to Serve Lebanese Kafta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Lebanese Kafta Recipe beautifully. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or mint leaves over the top for added color and a refreshing burst. A dollop of creamy tahini sauce or a drizzle of zesty lemon juice also pairs wonderfully to brighten the meat’s rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like fragrant basmati rice, fattoush salad, or creamy hummus complement the kafta perfectly. For some extra crunch, serve alongside pickled vegetables or crispy pita chips. These sides provide balance, texture, and additional freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit adventurous? Try serving the kafta in pita pockets with fresh veggies and garlic sauce for a casual sandwich experience. Alternatively, arrange the patties over a bed of couscous with grilled vegetables for an elegant presentation. The Lebanese Kafta Recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative with your plating and sides.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover kafta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the grilled tomatoes separate if possible to maintain their texture. When ready to enjoy again, just reheat gently to preserve tenderness and flavor.
Freezing
This Lebanese Kafta Recipe freezes beautifully. After shaping the kafta, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer into a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months. When you want a quick meal, simply thaw and cook from frozen or slightly thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, use a medium skillet over low heat to warm the kafta gently without drying them out. Alternatively, warming briefly in the oven works great too. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and a less appealing texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef or lamb?
Absolutely! While traditional Lebanese Kafta Recipe typically uses beef or lamb, ground chicken or turkey can work too. Just be mindful that poultry tends to be leaner, so adding a small amount of olive oil or a bit more onion can help keep the kafta moist and flavorful.
What is Lebanese 7 spice blend?
Lebanese 7 spice is a fragrant, warm blend of spices commonly used in Lebanese cooking. It usually contains cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, black pepper, cumin, and coriander. This mix brings a distinctive flavor profile that sets kafta apart from other meat dishes.
Can I bake the kafta instead of grilling or pan-frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative if you want a hands-off cooking method. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the kafta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
How do I prevent the kafta from falling apart while cooking?
Key tips include squeezing out excess onion liquid, firmly mixing the meat mixture, and shaping the patties or kebabs tightly. Also, handling the meat gently during cooking and using some olive oil to prevent sticking helps keep everything together.
What can I serve with Lebanese Kafta Recipe for a complete meal?
A well-rounded meal can include Lebanese favorites like rice pilaf, tabbouleh salad, grilled vegetables, or creamy yogurt-based dips. These sides complement the robust flavors of kafta wonderfully and create a balanced dining experience.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Lebanese Kafta Recipe enough if you’re craving something truly satisfying, full of fresh herbs and warming spices. It’s a dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become one of your favorite go-to meals.
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Lebanese Kafta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
- Diet: Halal
Description
Lebanese Kafta is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from ground beef or lamb mixed with fresh parsley, onion, and aromatic Lebanese 7 spice blend. The meat is shaped into oval patties or skewered and cooked by grilling or pan-frying. It’s typically served hot alongside rice, salad, or wrapped in flatbread, often accompanied by grilled tomatoes for added flavor.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely grated and excess liquid squeezed out
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lebanese 7 spice blend
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or frying)
- Optional: Sliced tomatoes for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, grated onion, chopped parsley, Lebanese 7 spice blend, kosher salt, and black pepper. Combine thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring the mixture is evenly seasoned and holds together well.
- Shape the Kafta: Divide the meat mixture into equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval patty or mold around skewers if you prefer kebabs. Make sure the shapes are compact so they hold during cooking.
- Cook the Kafta – Grilling Option: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the kafta with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill each kafta on each side for about 5 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked and has a nice charred exterior.
- Cook the Kafta – Pan-Frying Option: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kafta patties and cook for approximately 5 minutes on each side, allowing them to brown nicely and cook through completely.
- Optional – Grill Tomatoes: If desired, place sliced tomatoes on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking the kafta. Grill until tomatoes are slightly charred and softened, adding a smoky sweetness to accompany the dish.
- Serve: Serve the kafta hot with your choice of rice, fresh salad, or wrapped in flatbread. Include the grilled tomatoes if prepared for an authentic Lebanese dining experience.
Notes
- Ensure to squeeze out excess onion liquid to prevent the meat mixture from being too wet, which helps the kafta hold its shape better.
- Lebanese 7 spice blend typically includes allspice, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, coriander, cumin, and black pepper for authentic flavor.
- Skewering the kafta allows even cooking and makes for a traditional presentation.
- Adjust grilling or cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the kafta patties.
- Serve with fresh herbs or tangy tahini sauce for extra flavor enhancement.
