Beef Kafta Kebabs are tasty skewers of juicy ground beef mixed with herbs and spices. They’re perfect for grilling and will make your next barbecue a hit!
These kebabs are so easy to make and fun to eat! I love serving them with a side of fresh salad. You can’t go wrong with food on a stick, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80% lean beef gives juicy kebabs. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but the texture will be less rich. I personally love sticking with beef for that classic kafta flavor!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness to the mixture. If you don’t have onions on hand, shallots are a great alternative. They work well and provide a milder flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley brightens the dish. If you’re looking for a different flavor, cilantro can be a nice substitute. Just be mindful that it changes the overall taste a bit!
Spices: Cumin and coriander are key for that authentic flavor. If you’re out of ground coriander, a little extra cumin or even garam masala can add a unique twist. I always add a pinch more paprika for extra color and flavor.
Olive Oil: This is used for grilling. If you want to try something different, avocado oil also has a high smoke point and adds a subtle flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Kebabs Stay Moist and Flavorful?
Getting juicy, flavorful kebabs can be tricky. Here are some key tips to ensure your kafta doesn’t dry out:
- Use fatty cuts of meat; the 80% lean beef helps keep them moist.
- Avoid over-mixing your meat; gently combine ingredients for better texture.
- Shape the mixture around the skewers but don’t pack them too tight; this allows them to cook evenly.
- Preheat your grill properly, and don’t flip them too often; let them brown nicely before turning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 160°F for ground beef.
Following these tips can help you achieve beautifully grilled kafta kebabs every time!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For Serving:
- 2 cups hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12 minutes to grill. All in all, you’ll spend about 30 minutes making these delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs to share with your friends or family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Add in the cumin, coriander, paprika, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. It should be a nice, seasoned mixture!
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Divide the beef mixture into equal portions, about the size of your fist. Now, shape each portion into long oval patties or logs around your skewers. Take your time to get them nice and even. This will give you perfect kebabs once grilled!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it over medium-high heat. To make flipping easier and to prevent sticking, brush the grill with olive oil. This will also help give the kebabs a nice sear!
4. Grill the Kebabs:
Carefully place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to be browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside. The smell will be amazing!
5. Prepare the Serving Platter:
While the kebabs are grilling, grab a serving platter. Spread the hummus evenly across the bottom—this gives a wonderful base for your kebabs!
6. Assemble and Garnish:
Once the kebabs are done, arrange them neatly on top of the hummus. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese around the kebabs. Lovely colors and textures!
7. Enjoy:
To finish, garnish with a little extra parsley for that fresh flair. Serve your Beef Kafta Kebabs with lemon wedges on the side if you like a bit of tanginess. Enjoy this delicious meal with friends and family!
Can I Use Ground Lamb Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground lamb will add a delicious flavor to the kafta kebabs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as lamb may cook a bit faster than beef, and keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through.
What Other Herbs Can I Use in This Recipe?
If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with fresh cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile. Dried herbs can also work, but use them sparingly—about one tablespoon should suffice since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover kafta kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a grill pan over low heat. Just add a splash of water if they seem dry to keep them moist!
Can I Make Kafta Kebabs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it covered until you’re ready to use it. You can also shape the kebabs on skewers ahead of time, just cover them and keep in the fridge until grilling. This makes for a super easy and quick cooking process on the day of serving!
