Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe: Juicy Grilled Skewers to Wow Your Guests

Craving a dish that’s bursting with Middle Eastern flavors, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress your guests? Look no further than Lebanese Kafta, a mouthwatering dish of juicy, grilled meat skewers packed with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a smoky char. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, firing up the grill for a family dinner, or just looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this kafta recipe is your ticket to a flavor-packed experience. With its tender ground lamb or beef, vibrant parsley, and warm spices, kafta is a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious. Ready to dive into this culinary gem? Let’s explore how to make Lebanese kafta that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

What Is Lebanese Kafta?

Lebanese kafta (also spelled kofta or kefta) is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from ground meat—typically lamb, beef, or a mix of both—blended with finely chopped onions, fresh parsley, and a fragrant mix of spices like cumin, allspice, and cinnamon. The mixture is shaped into elongated patties or molded onto skewers, then grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky, charred exterior and a juicy, tender interior. Often served with a cooling yogurt sauce, flatbreads, and fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, kafta is a versatile dish that shines at barbecues, family feasts, or casual dinners.

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What makes kafta so special? It’s the balance of flavors—savory meat, earthy spices, and fresh herbs—combined with its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master chef to nail this recipe, and with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels exotic yet comforting. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing, making it a go-to for gatherings where food is the heart of the celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Kafta Recipe

This Lebanese kafta recipe is designed to be easy, approachable, and foolproof, even for beginners. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Bold Flavors: The combination of warming spices and fresh herbs creates a taste that’s rich, aromatic, and unforgettable.

• Quick Prep: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have kafta ready to grill in under 30 minutes.

• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish with sides, stuff it into pita for sandwiches, or add it to a mezze platter for a festive spread.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Its juicy texture and smoky grill marks make it a hit at any gathering, from casual BBQs to elegant dinners.

• Customizable: Adjust the spices or swap lamb for beef to suit your taste.

Ready to bring this Middle Eastern classic to your table? Let’s break down the ingredients and steps to make the ultimate Lebanese kafta.

Ingredients for Lebanese Kafta

To make kafta for 4–6 servings, you’ll need the following ingredients. Don’t worry—most are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store!

For the Kafta:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) ground lamb or beef (or a 50/50 mix for the best flavor)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped or grated (about 1 cup)

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 2 teaspoons ground allspice

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (to help bind and add moisture)

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 small cucumber, finely grated and drained

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon dried mint or 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped

• Pinch of salt

For Serving:

• Pita bread or flatbreads

• Sliced tomatoes

• Sliced cucumbers

• Red onion, thinly sliced

• Fresh parsley or mint for garnish

• Lemon wedges

Equipment:

• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)

• Grill (outdoor or indoor grill pan)

• Mixing bowl

• Tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lebanese Kafta

Follow these simple steps to create juicy, flavorful kafta skewers that’ll transport your taste buds to the streets of Beirut.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, finely chopped onion, parsley, allspice, cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and minced garlic (if using).

2. Drizzle in the olive oil to help bind the mixture and keep it moist.

3. Using your hands, mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the kafta dense. The mixture should be cohesive but not pasty.

Pro Tip: For the best texture, grate the onion instead of chopping it. This releases more moisture, keeping the kafta juicy.

Step 2: Shape the Kafta

1. Divide the meat mixture into 8–10 equal portions, depending on the size of your skewers.

2. Take one portion and mold it around a skewer, forming a long, sausage-like shape about 1 inch thick and 4–5 inches long. Press firmly to ensure the meat sticks to the skewer but avoid packing it too tightly.

3. Repeat with the remaining portions. If you’re not using skewers, shape the mixture into elongated patties.

Pro Tip: Wet your hands with water to prevent the meat from sticking while shaping.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stove.

2. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Kafta

1. Place the skewers (or patties) on the grill, ensuring they’re not touching.

2. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes to ensure even cooking and nice char marks. The kafta is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef or lamb.

3. Remove from the grill and let the kafta rest for 2–3 minutes to lock in the juices.

Step 5: Make the Yogurt Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, mint, and a pinch of salt.

2. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the kafta skewers on a platter with pita bread, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and lemon wedges.

2. Drizzle or serve with the yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.

3. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestion: For a full Middle Eastern feast, pair kafta with tabbouleh, hummus, and baba ganoush. It’s perfect for sharing!

Tips for Perfect Kafta Every Time

• Choose the Right Meat: A mix of lamb and beef gives the best flavor, but if you prefer one, go for 80/20 ground meat for enough fat to keep it juicy.

• Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting the kafta rest after grilling ensures the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.

• Char It Up: The smoky char from the grill is key to authentic kafta flavor. Don’t be afraid of those grill marks!

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture and shape the skewers a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to grill.

• No Grill? No Problem: Bake kafta in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, or cook in a skillet over medium heat.

Why Kafta Is Perfect for Any Occasion

Lebanese kafta is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor and togetherness. Its bold spices and fresh accompaniments make it ideal for festive gatherings, from summer barbecues to holiday feasts. The skewers are easy to serve and share, encouraging guests to dig in and create their own pita wraps or plates. Plus, the recipe is forgiving, so even novice cooks can whip up a batch that looks and tastes impressive. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet family dinner, kafta brings warmth and joy to the table.

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Conclusion

Lebanese kafta is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that combines simplicity with bold, unforgettable flavors. With its juicy grilled meat, fragrant spices, and refreshing yogurt sauce, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer BBQ or hosting a cozy family dinner, this easy kafta recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. So grab your skewers, mix up that meat, and get ready to wow your guests with a taste of the Middle East. Don’t forget to serve it with warm pita and fresh veggies for the full experience!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make kafta without a grill?Yes! You can bake kafta in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, or cook it in a skillet over medium heat for about 10–12 minutes.

2. Can I use other meats for kafta?Absolutely. While lamb and beef are traditional, you can use ground chicken or turkey. Just ensure the meat has enough fat (at least 15–20%) for juiciness.

3. How do I store leftover kafta?Store cooked kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. The raw mixture can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.

4. Can I freeze kafta?Yes! Shape the raw kafta mixture into patties or onto skewers, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

5. What sides go well with kafta?Kafta pairs beautifully with tabbouleh, fattoush salad, hummus, baba ganoush, or grilled vegetables. Serve with rice or couscous for a heartier meal.

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