Mouthwatering Lebanese Kafta Recipe for Flavorful Feasts Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
