Kafta Kebabs Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with savory spices, fresh herbs, and a smoky aroma, look no further than this Kafta Kebabs Recipe! These skewers hold a special place in my heart—juicy ground beef is mixed with onions, parsley, and warm Middle Eastern spices, then pressed onto skewers and flame-kissed to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want to add some flair to dinner, this Kafta Kebabs Recipe will win you over, bite after succulent bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Kafta Kebabs Recipe is in its simplicity – each ingredient is a star player, coming together to create an irresistible medley of flavor, texture, and color. Gather your fresh and pantry staples for a meal that tastes every bit as special as it looks.

• Yellow onion (1 medium, quartered): Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the kebabs, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
• Fresh parsley (1 cup, washed and patted dry): Lends a vibrant green color and a bright, herby freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the beef.
• Lean ground beef (600 grams): The heart of the Kafta Kebabs Recipe, offering delicious flavor and tender texture without excess grease.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out the layered flavors of the filling and seasoning the meat all the way through.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a gentle warmth and depth to the kebabs.
• Seven spice (¼ teaspoon): This aromatic blend brings classic Middle Eastern flavor; pre-mixed blends make it easy but you can always tweak the amount to taste.
• Cayenne (⅛ teaspoon, more to taste): Just a hint of heat to kick things up—adjust depending on how spicy you like it!

How to Make Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Step 1: Chop Onion and Parsley

First things first, let’s get the base of our Kafta Kebabs Recipe ready. Place your quartered onion and fresh parsley into the bowl of your food processor. Pulse a few times until both are finely chopped—you’re looking for a uniform mix that almost resembles a coarse paste but still has a bit of texture. This is key for even flavor and moisture throughout every skewer.

Step 2: Mix Together the Meat and Spices

Now, grab a large mixing bowl. Add your lean ground beef, the onion-parsley mixture, and all the seasonings. Don’t be shy—using your hands really is the best way! Gently but thoroughly mix it all together so every bit of beef is well-coated with those wonderful spices and herbs. This tactile step is actually kind of fun, and it guarantees maximum flavor in each bite.

Step 3: Shape the Kebabs

Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to form the kebabs. Take a handful of the seasoned meat and shape it around a skewer, using your palms to press it into an oblong sausage shape. Aim for about an inch to an inch and a half thick along the skewer. If the mixture feels sticky, dampen your hands with a bit of water. Consistent sizing helps everything cook evenly—and makes for that beautiful, classic look!

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Prepare your grill—charcoal lends the best smoky flavor, but a preheated gas grill on medium-high works beautifully too. Brush the grates with a bit of oil so nothing sticks. Lay out your skewers, leaving a touch of space between each. Grill for about 4 minutes on the first side, then flip and grill the other side for another 4 minutes (or until fully cooked and caramelized). That sizzle and aroma? Utterly irresistible!

Step 5: Serve Immediately

When they’re hot off the grill, remove the skewers and arrange them on your serving platter. The Kafta Kebabs Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, with the juices still glistening and all those flavors at their peak. Don’t wait—these deserve to be savored right away!

How to Serve Kafta Kebabs Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing takes these kebabs from wonderful to wow! I love scattering a handful of chopped parsley or mint over the top, along with a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness. A sprinkle of sumac adds a pop of color and tartness, while thinly sliced red onions give a pleasant bite. All these little touches make your Kafta Kebabs Recipe look as amazing as it tastes.

Side Dishes

No skewer is complete without some stellar sides. Wrap the kebabs in warm pita, alongside creamy hummus or garlicky toum. Lebanese rice pilaf or tabbouleh are fantastic for something more substantial, while a simple cucumber-yogurt salad keeps things extra refreshing. Let your cravings (and your fridge) lead the way!

Creative Ways to Present

For special gatherings, try threading the cooked Kafta Kebabs Recipe onto a bed of jeweled rice on a big platter, scattering pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs for a show-stopping centerpiece. Or, serve individual skewers upright in a tall glass with dipping sauces for a fun party snack. However you serve them, don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Kafta Kebabs Recipe (lucky you!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days.

Freezing

Want to stock up for future feasts? You absolutely can! Shape the raw kebabs and freeze them flat on a tray lined with parchment. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months—just defrost in the fridge before grilling or cooking as usual.

Reheating

To bring your Kafta Kebabs Recipe back to life, reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, or pop them into the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If you’re microwaving, wrap them in a damp paper towel so they don’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I use lamb instead of beef in this Kafta Kebabs Recipe?

Absolutely! Lamb is a classic choice as well and adds a deliciously rich flavor. You can use all lamb or a mix of lamb and beef depending on your preference.

What is seven spice, and can I make it at home?

Seven spice is a traditional Middle Eastern blend typically including allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, coriander, cumin, cloves, and nutmeg. If you can’t find it, there are plenty of homemade recipes online—it’s fun to experiment until you find your favorite combo!

Can I cook the kebabs without a grill?

Definitely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the kebabs under the broiler in your oven or in a grill pan on the stove. Just keep the heat high and cook until browned and cooked through.

How do I prevent the meat from falling off the skewers?

The trick is to mix the meat really well with the onions, parsley, and spices until it holds together—if it feels a bit too loose, you can add a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to help bind it. Also, pressing the meat firmly onto flat (not round) metal skewers helps!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, the Kafta Kebabs Recipe contains no gluten. Just be sure your seven spice mix and any sides you serve are also gluten-free if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Kafta Kebabs Recipe as I am to share it with you! It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that always sparks conversation and brings smiles to the table. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready for your new favorite meal—happy grilling!

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