Authentic Middle Eastern Kafta Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs of ground lamb or beef
  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped
  • 6 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil for grilling

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onions, minced garlic, and fresh parsley.
  2. Add the ground coriander, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Shape the meat mixture into long, thin kebabs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. Preheat your grill or broiler. Lightly brush the kafta kebabs with olive oil.
  5. Grill or broil the kebabs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
  6. Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  7. Enjoy your homemade kafta with fresh bread, a side salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use ground chicken or turkey instead of lamb or beef for a lighter option.
  • Add finely chopped mint leaves to the meat mixture for an extra burst of freshness.
  • Experiment with different spices such as paprika, chili powder, or sumac to customize the flavor profile.
  • Make vegetarian kafta by substituting the meat with cooked and mashed chickpeas or lentils.
  • Add grated cheese, such as feta or Parmesan, to the meat mixture for added richness.
  • Include finely diced bell peppers or grated zucchini to incorporate more vegetables into the kafta.
  • Wrap the meat mixture around skewers and grill them as kebabs for a fun presentation.
  • Serve the kafta in pita bread with tahini sauce, fresh tomatoes, and lettuce for a delicious kafta sandwich.

Recipe overview

This recipe guide will walk you through the process of making Kafta, a popular Middle Eastern dish that's perfect for those who love flavorful and juicy grilled meat. Kafta is a type of kebab made from a delicious blend of ground lamb or beef, onions, and a mix of aromatic spices. The result is a mouthwatering meat skewer that's packed with flavor and perfect for any barbecue or family gathering. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it suitable for cooks of all levels. In just a few simple steps, and with a handful of ingredients, you'll be able to create a unique and tasty dish that's sure to impress your guests. Plus, the versatility of Kafta allows you to pair it with fresh bread, a side salad, or your favorite dipping sauce, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Enjoy the process and the delicious end result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use ground chicken instead of lamb or beef? Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for the lamb or beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the kafta will be slightly different.
  2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? To make a vegetarian version of kafta, you can replace the ground meat with a combination of cooked lentils and finely chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Adjust the seasonings accordingly.
  3. Can I prepare the kebabs in advance? Yes, you can prepare the kebabs in advance. Once shaped, you can refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling. This can be convenient for meal prep or when hosting guests.
  4. Can I cook kafta on a stovetop instead of grilling or broiling? Absolutely! If you don't have access to a grill or broiler, you can cook the kafta kebabs on a stovetop grill pan or even a regular non-stick frying pan. Cook them over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
  5. What are some serving suggestions for kafta? Kafta is often served with pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, and a side salad. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or in a wrap with your favorite toppings.
  6. Can I freeze leftover kafta? Yes, you can freeze leftover cooked kafta. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill or Broiler - A grill or broiler is needed to cook the kafta kebabs.
  • Mixing Bowl - A large mixing bowl is required to combine the ground meat and other ingredients.
  • Knife - A knife is needed to finely chop the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board is necessary for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons are helpful for accurately measuring the ground coriander, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
  • Grill Brush - A grill brush is useful for cleaning the grill grates before and after cooking the kebabs.
  • Skewers - If you prefer skewered kafta kebabs, metal or bamboo skewers can be used to thread the meat mixture.
  • Basting Brush - A basting brush is handy for brushing olive oil onto the kebabs before grilling or broiling.

Origin stories

Kafta, a delightful dish that has been savored for centuries, traces its roots back to the Middle East. This tantalizing cuisine is known by various names in different cultures, from "kefta" in Turkey to "kofta" in South Asia. It's said that nomadic tribes, living in harsh desert conditions, first dreamed up the idea of mincing the meat to make it last longer, hence the birth of Kafta. The simplicity of its preparation and the depth of its flavors are a true testament to the ingenuity of those ancient cooks. Today, whether it's enjoyed in the bustling food bazaars of Lebanon or the comfort of a home kitchen, Kafta continues to unite people across borders with its irresistible allure.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.