If you are craving something deeply flavorful yet refreshingly simple, this Lebanese Kafta Recipe will become your new kitchen favorite. Ground meat infused with fragrant Lebanese 7 spice, fresh parsley, and onion comes together in a dish that is juicy, aromatic, and packed with character. Whether you grill it or pan-fry it, this recipe offers a perfect balance of spices and freshness that transports you straight to the heart of Lebanese cuisine, perfect for a family dinner or an impressive yet easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Lebanese Kafta Recipe is delightfully straightforward, yet each component plays a vital role. From the freshness of herbs to the warmth of spices, each ingredient layers texture and flavor that make kafta so irresistible.
- Ground beef or lamb: Choose quality meat for moist and flavorful kafta; lamb adds authentic richness.
- Medium onion: Finely grated, this adds natural sweetness and moisture to keep the mixture tender.
- Fresh parsley: Acts as the herbaceous backbone, lending vibrant color and freshness.
- Lebanese 7 spice blend: A fragrant mix that defines the unique Middle Eastern flavor profile.
- Kosher salt: Brings out all the natural flavors in the meat and spices.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to enhance the overall taste.
- Olive oil: Used during cooking to create a perfect sear and keep kafta juicy.
- Optional sliced tomatoes: Great for grilling alongside to add a smoky sweetness that complements the kafta.
How to Make Lebanese Kafta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by gently combining your ground meat with finely grated onion, ensuring you’ve squeezed out excess liquid to avoid sogginess. Add the chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle in the Lebanese 7 spice blend for that signature aromatic punch. Don’t forget the kosher salt and black pepper to elevate every bite. Mix everything thoroughly, letting the spices and herbs infuse the meat evenly.
Step 2: Shape the Kafta
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into equal portions. You can mold these into oval patties if pan-frying or form them around skewers if you plan on grilling kebabs. This shaping step is simple yet crucial for even cooking and the perfect texture.
Step 3: Cook the Kafta
If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high and brush each kafta with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place them carefully on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop beautiful grill marks and are thoroughly cooked. This method imparts a lovely smoky flavor that enhances the spices.
Step 4: Pan-Frying Alternative
For those who prefer stove-top cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kafta patties and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This method gives you a deliciously crispy exterior with a juicy interior.
Step 5: Optional – Grill Tomatoes
If you want to add a delightful burst of acidity and sweetness, slice some tomatoes and toss them on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking your kafta. Allow them to soften and develop slight char marks—this adds a fresh, smoky side that balances the richness of the meat.
Step 6: Serve Your Kafta
Plate your kafta while hot, pairing it with your favorite sides or wrapping it in warm flatbread. Whether served with rice, salad, or alongside the grilled tomatoes, this Lebanese Kafta Recipe never fails to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.
How to Serve Lebanese Kafta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate your kafta to restaurant-quality meals. Think chopped parsley or mint leaves scattered on top, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, and perhaps a drizzle of tahini sauce to add creamy tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the spices.
Side Dishes
The best companions for your Lebanese Kafta Recipe are simple yet flavorful. Serve it alongside fluffy rice pilaf, a crisp fattoush salad, or creamy hummus for a balanced and vibrant meal. Each side adds different textures and notes that complement the rich meat and herbs perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your kafta dinner into an experience by serving mini kafta sliders topped with pickled onions and fresh veggies or assemble a mezze platter featuring kafta skewers, assorted dips, olives, and warm pita bread. These ideas bring excitement and versatility to your Lebanese Kafta Recipe celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked, store any leftover kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick meals or lunches during a busy week.
Freezing
To enjoy Lebanese Kafta Recipe later, freeze shaped but uncooked patties or skewers. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and cooked directly from frozen with a few extra minutes of cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain juiciness, or warm them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can dry out the kafta and dull the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other meats besides beef or lamb for this Lebanese Kafta Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef and lamb are traditional, you can experiment with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option, though keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
What is Lebanese 7 spice blend?
Lebanese 7 spice is a fragrant mix of ground allspice, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, nutmeg, coriander, and cumin. It gives kafta its signature warm and aromatic flavor profile.
Do I have to grill the kafta or can I bake it?
Baking is certainly possible. Place shaped kafta patties on a lined baking sheet and cook in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Can I make the kafta mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking. This allows the flavors to meld even further.
What are some traditional accompaniments for Lebanese Kafta Recipe?
Traditional sides include tabbouleh, hummus, baba ghanoush, rice pilaf, and fresh pita bread. These sides highlight different textures and add balance to the meal.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve discovered this wonderfully simple yet soul-satisfying Lebanese Kafta Recipe, I hope you feel inspired to make it at home. It’s a dish that effortlessly brings people together around the table, bursting with flavors that tell a story of heritage and hospitality. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Lebanese Kafta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Description
Lebanese Kafta is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring ground beef or lamb seasoned with aromatic Lebanese 7 spice, fresh parsley, and onions. Perfectly shaped into oval patties or kebabs, these kaftas can be grilled or pan-fried to juicy perfection. Served hot with rice, salad, or wrapped in flatbread, sometimes accompanied by grilled tomatoes, this dish offers a delicious and authentic taste of Lebanese cuisine.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely grated and excess liquid squeezed out
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lebanese 7 spice blend
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or frying)
- Optional: Sliced tomatoes for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, finely grated onion, chopped parsley, Lebanese 7 spice blend, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring the flavors meld together.
- Shape the Kafta: Divide the meat mixture into equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval patty or mold it firmly around skewers if making kebabs, ensuring they hold their shape during cooking.
- Cook the Kafta – Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush each kafta with olive oil to prevent sticking and place them on the grill. Cook for approximately 5 minutes on each side until the meat is fully cooked, juicy, and has appealing grill marks.
- Cook the Kafta – Pan-Frying Method: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kafta patties and cook for about 5 minutes per side, turning once, until they are well browned and cooked through to a safe temperature.
- Optional – Grill Tomatoes: If desired, place sliced tomatoes on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking the kafta. Grill the tomatoes until slightly charred and softened to add a smoky, juicy complement to the dish.
- Serve: Serve the kafta hot alongside rice, fresh salad, or wrapped in flatbread. Add the grilled tomatoes on the side if prepared, for a complete and delicious meal experience.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh parsley for vibrant flavor。
- Make sure to squeeze out excess liquid from the grated onion to avoid soggy kafta.
- The Lebanese 7 spice blend typically includes cinnamon, allspice, cloves, pepper, cumin, nutmeg, and coriander.
- If using skewers, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Kafta can be cooked either grilled or pan-fried based on preference and available equipment.
- Leftover kafta can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
