Authentic Moroccan Kefta: A Detailed Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of ground lamb or beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup of fresh coriander, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the ground meat in a large bowl. Add the finely chopped onion, parsley, and coriander.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the bowl.
  3. Now add the spices - cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Allow the mixture to rest for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  5. After resting, shape the mixture into small patties or sausage shapes.
  6. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
  7. Add the shaped meat to the pan. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until browned and fully cooked.
  8. Remove the cooked kefta from the pan and drain on paper towels.
  9. Repeat the process with the remaining meat mixture.
  10. Serve the kefta hot with a side of salad or bread.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - for mixing the ground meat and other ingredients
  • Frying pan - to cook the kefta patties
  • Knife - for finely chopping the onion, parsley, and coriander
  • Cutting board - to provide a surface for chopping the ingredients
  • Measuring cups - to accurately measure the required amounts of parsley, coriander, and olive oil
  • Measuring spoons - for precise measurements of spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper
  • Spatula - for flipping the kefta patties while cooking
  • Paper towels - to drain the cooked kefta and remove excess oil

Recipe variations

  • Use ground chicken or turkey instead of lamb or beef for a lighter option.
  • Add a tablespoon of harissa paste to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Replace the ground meat with a combination of lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
  • Add grated cheese such as feta or Parmesan to the meat mixture for added flavor.
  • Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the meat mixture for a burst of tangy sweetness.
  • Wrap the kefta mixture around skewers and grill them for a smoky flavor.
  • Serve the kefta with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus for dipping.
  • Sprinkle some za'atar seasoning on top of the kefta before cooking for a Middle Eastern twist.
  • Instead of frying, bake the kefta in the oven for a healthier option.
  • Make mini-sized kefta and serve them as appetizers or finger food.

Recipe overview

Kefta, a traditional Middle Eastern dish, is the perfect mix of savory and spice. Made of either ground lamb or beef, and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, this recipe offers bite-sized delights that are power-packed with flavor. Once shaped into small patties or sausages, they are pan-fried to perfection, resulting in a dish that's crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. Enjoyed hot off the pan, these can be served as appetizers, or as part of a main meal with salad or bread. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it perfect for home cooks interested in exploring Middle Eastern cuisine. Indulge in the richness of kefta and let your palate explore the wonder that is Middle Eastern flavors.

Common questions

  1. Can I use ground beef instead of ground lamb?
    Yes, you can use either ground lamb or ground beef for this recipe.
  2. Can I substitute the fresh herbs with dried herbs?
    While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs as a substitute if needed. However, the flavor may be slightly different.
  3. How long should I let the mixture rest?
    Allow the mixture to rest for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  4. Can I grill the kefta instead of pan-frying?
    Absolutely! You can grill the kefta over medium heat until cooked through. Cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  5. What can I serve with kefta?
    Kefta pairs well with various sides such as rice, couscous, salad, or pita bread. You can also serve it alongside tzatziki sauce or yogurt for dipping.
  6. Can I make the kefta mixture in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the kefta mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook. Just make sure to shape and cook the kefta within 1-2 days for the best results.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix and combine the ground meat and other ingredients.
  • Frying Pan - A pan to cook the kefta patties or sausage shapes.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion, parsley, and coriander.
  • Cutting Board - To chop the vegetables and herbs.
  • Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  • Garlic Press - To mince the garlic cloves.
  • Spatula - To flip and remove the cooked kefta from the pan.
  • Paper Towels - To drain the cooked kefta and remove excess oil.

Origin stories

Kefta, a dish savored across the Middle East and North Africa, has roots that reach far into the annals of culinary history. Its creation is attributed to the Medieval Arab cookbooks where meat was pounded and mixed with fruits, spices, bread crumbs, and nuts to create a variety of meatball dishes. The word 'kefta' itself is derived from the Persian 'kuftan', meaning 'to grind', aptly describing the process of preparing the meat. What makes kefta truly fascinating is its variation across regions. Each country, each city, and indeed, each household, brings its unique twist to this beloved dish, a testament to its versatility. Enjoying a plate of kefta is not just a gastronomic delight but a journey through centuries of culinary tradition and innovation.

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.