Mouthwatering Lebanese Kafta Recipe for Flavorful Feasts Recipe

Introduction

Lebanese Kafta is a delicious and aromatic dish made from ground meat blended with fresh herbs and warm spices. Whether grilled or pan-fried, these flavorful patties make a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Easy to prepare, they’re sure to impress at your next feast.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground beef or lamb (or a combination)
• 1 medium Grated onion, drained well
• 1/2 cup Chopped parsley (can substitute with cilantro)
• 2 cloves Minced garlic (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Allspice
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 lemon (for serving)
• 4 pieces Pita bread or cooked rice (to serve)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, cumin, allspice, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Mix thoroughly for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly sticky.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into small logs or patties about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place them on a platter with space between each.
3. Step 3: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C) or heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Step 4: Cook the kafta patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
5. Step 5: Let the kafta rest for a minute before serving. Serve with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad, and optionally drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce. Squeeze lemon juice over the top for added brightness.

Tips & Variations

• Refrigerate the mixture before shaping if it feels too loose; this helps patties hold their shape better.
• For a lighter version, use lean ground beef or lamb, or mix both meats to balance flavor and fat.
• Try adding chopped mint or sumac for extra Middle Eastern flair.
• If you prefer, cook the kafta on a hot cast-iron skillet instead of a grill for a nice sear.

Storage

Store cooked kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to retain moisture. The raw mixture can be kept covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours but is best cooked fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use only ground beef or only lamb?

Yes, you can use either ground beef or lamb based on your preference. Combining both is traditional, but using just one type works well too.

How do I prevent the patties from falling apart while cooking?

Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly so the mixture is slightly sticky. Chilling the mixture before shaping also helps the patties hold together better during cooking.

Mouthwatering Lebanese Kafta Recipe for Flavorful Feasts Recipe

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4.6 from 97 reviews

This Mouthwatering Lebanese Kafta recipe features flavorful ground beef or lamb patties infused with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and garlic. Perfectly grilled or skillet-cooked to juicy perfection, these kafta patties are a traditional Middle Eastern delight served with pita or rice and complemented by a squeeze of lemon or tahini sauce.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (4 patties) 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Patties

• 1 pound Ground Beef or Lamb (can combine both or choose leaner cuts)
• 1 medium Grated Onion (drain well to avoid excess moisture)
• 1/2 cup Chopped Parsley (can substitute with cilantro)
• 2 cloves Minced Garlic (adjust to taste or use garlic powder)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Allspice
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne (adjust for desired heat level)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for cooking)

Cooking Essentials

• 1 lemon (for added brightness)
• 4 pieces Pita or Rice (to serve alongside)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the spices: cumin, allspice, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Mix thoroughly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly sticky, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated for optimal flavor.
2. Shape the Patties: Form the meat mixture into small logs or patties about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place them spaced apart on a platter to prevent sticking and maintain shape.
3. Preheat Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C) or heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering, preparing for cooking the kafta thoroughly.
4. Cook the Kafta: Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) ensuring they are cooked through and juicy.
5. Rest and Serve: Allow the kafta to rest for a minute after cooking. Serve hot with pita bread or rice, garnish with lemon wedges, and optionally drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce for added richness and zest.

Notes

• Ensure the meat mixture is mixed well for the best flavor and texture.
• If the mixture feels too loose, refrigerate it before shaping to help it firm up and hold shape better while cooking.
• Adjust garlic and cayenne pepper according to your taste preference for milder or spicier kafta.
• Use lean meat to reduce fat content if desired, but this may affect juiciness.
• Grilling adds a smoky flavor, while skillet cooking provides a convenient stovetop option.

Keywords: Lebanese Kafta, Kafta Recipe, Ground Beef Patties, Middle Eastern Grill, Spiced Meat Patties, Lebanese Cuisine