Beef Kafta Kebabs are juicy and delicious skewers made with ground beef mixed with tasty spices like parsley, onion, and cumin. They’re perfect for grilling any day of the week!
My favorite part is how easy they are to make! Just mix the ingredients, shape them onto skewers, and cook. Serve them with warm pita and some sauce for a tasty meal that pleases everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is best for making kafta, as it holds shape while grilling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. They have lighter flavors but can work well with the spices.
Onion: Grated onion adds moisture and sweetness. If you’re not a fan of onion, you could use shallots for a milder taste or even some chopped green onions.
Herbs (Parsley & Mint): Fresh parsley is essential for flavor, while mint adds a unique freshness. If you can’t find fresh mint, you can skip it or use a pinch of dried mint instead, but fresh gives the best taste!
Spices: The spices like cumin and coriander are key in defining the flavor. If you need a simple substitute, try a pre-made spice blend like Lebanese seven spice for a different twist.
Skewers: If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal ones work well too. Just remember to oil them a bit to prevent sticking during grilling.
How Can I Ensure My Kebabs Hold Together While Cooking?
Getting the kebab mixture to stick on the skewer right can be tricky. Here are some tips to ensure your kebabs hold together perfectly:
- Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly. The fat from the beef helps bind everything together.
- When shaping the kebabs, press the meat firmly around the skewer. This helps them stick while cooking.
- Soaking wooden skewers in water (for at least 30 minutes) prevents them from burning on the grill.
With these techniques, you’ll be sure to have delicious, juicy kebabs that stay intact while grilling! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
For Serving:
- Hummus
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Pita bread (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious meal. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes before you can enjoy your Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mint (if you’re using it), cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until all the ingredients are nicely blended together.
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Divide the meat mixture into equal portions, around 1/4 pound each. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer, pressing firmly to make sure it sticks. This helps your kebabs hold their shape while cooking.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it on medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to do this safely.
4. Cook the Kebabs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely browned and cooked through, so keep an eye on them! You can check if they’re done by cutting one in the middle; it should no longer be pink.
5. Prepare the Serving Plate:
While your kebabs are grilling, get your serving plate ready. Spread some hummus on the plate and arrange the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion around it. Sprinkle feta cheese on top to add a nice touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the kebabs are cooked, carefully remove them from the grill and place them over your prepared plate. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley for flavor. If you like, serve everything with pita bread on the side for a complete meal.
Now dig in and enjoy your delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that these meats may require slightly less seasoning than beef due to their milder flavor, so you might want to adjust spices accordingly. They can also cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them while grilling!
How Can I Make These Kebabs Gluten-Free?
To ensure your Beef Kafta Kebabs are gluten-free, just check your spices and make sure to use gluten-free pita bread or skip it altogether. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on a grill pan to maintain their flavor and texture. If freezing, wrap them tightly and they can last for up to 3 months—just thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Grill These Kebabs Indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even a broiler in your oven. Just preheat the pan or broiler and cook the kebabs, turning them occasionally until they’re nicely browned and cooked through, similar to outdoor grilling!
