Beef Kafta Kebabs are tasty grilled treats made from ground beef mixed with delicious spices. These juicy kebabs are packed with flavor and perfect for any cookout or family meal.
They’re so easy to make that I often whip them up when friends pop by unexpectedly. Just shape, grill, and enjoy! Serve them with some warm pita or fresh veggies for a quick feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend of ground beef gives the best flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they might need extra spices to enhance the taste.
Onion: A small finely grated onion adds moisture and sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, you could use onion powder (about 1 tsp) instead. But fresh is always better!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work too; just use about 1/4 tsp. Remember, fresh garlic has a stronger punch!
Herbs & Spices: Fresh parsley is a must for freshness, but you could replace it with cilantro if you prefer. For spices, if you lack cumin or coriander, a bit more paprika or allspice can help enhance flavor.
Garnishes: While cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions make a great garnish, feel free to mix it up with bell peppers or radishes. They add a nice crunch and color!
How Do I Shape the Kafta Kebabs Perfectly?
Shaping teh skewers properly can be tricky if you’re new to it! Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with clean, damp hands. This helps the mixture not stick.
- Take a portion of the meat miurture (about 2-3 oz) and flatten it like a sausage on the skewer. Make sure it’s compressed well to avoid falling off while grilling.
- Keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Aim for about 1-inch thick.
Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect! They’ll still taste delicious, and practice makes perfect. Enjoy the grilling process!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For Garnish and Serving:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup hummus
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. You’ll have a tasty dinner on the table in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix it all together until well combined. Make sure everything is evenly distributed!
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Once mixed, divide the meat mixture into equal portions (about 6 to 8 portions). Take each portion and mold it onto a skewer, shaping them into flattened sausages or logs. This will help them cook evenly on the grill.
3. Prepare the Grill:
Next, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. To prevent the kebabs from sticking, brush them lightly with olive oil.
4. Grill the Kebabs:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely browned and fully cooked through. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
5. Prepare the Garnish:
While the kebabs are grilling, take a moment to prepare your garnish. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion on a serving plate. This will make your dish look colorful and fresh!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the kebabs are cooked, carefully remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay locked in. Serve the kebabs over a bed of hummus, and don’t forget to sprinkle on the crumbled feta and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Enjoy your delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so you might want to add a little more olive oil or a splash of broth to the mixture to keep the kebabs moist.
What If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No worries! If you don’t have skewers, you can shape the kebabs into patties and cook them directly on the grill or in a grill pan. Just make sure to flip them carefully to avoid breaking.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Levels?
If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. For milder flavors, you can reduce the amount of paprika or skip the cumin entirely.
How Should I Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, or microwave them until warmed through. Enjoy them in a wrap or on a salad for a delicious second meal!
