Beef Kafta Kebabs are juicy ground beef mixed with tasty spices and herbs, all formed into flavorful skewers. They’re perfect for grilling and easy to make for any gathering!
These kebabs are so delicious, they often disappear in minutes. I love eating them with a side of garlic sauce—it just makes everything better. Trust me, you need to try these! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean beef for juicy kebabs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. Just note that they may be a little drier, so add an extra tablespoon of olive oil or an egg to help bind them.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and moisture. If you’re not a fan of onion or want a milder flavor, try using shallots or green onions instead.
Spices: The blend of cumin, coriander, allspice, and cinnamon gives these kebabs a warm flavor. You can shake things up with a bit of smoked paprika or turmeric for a slightly different taste. Just remember to adjust the amounts to your liking!
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds freshness. If you don’t have it, fresh cilantro works well too. Dried herbs are okay in a pinch, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Brushing your kebabs with olive oil before grilling can enhance their flavor and help prevent sticking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip it, but keep an eye on the grill to avoid sticking.
How Can You Grill Perfectly Shaped Kebabs?
Forming kebabs can be tricky, but it’s all about keeping your mixture consistent and compact. Here’s how to do it right:
- After mixing all your ingredients, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Take equal portions (about 1/4 cup) of the meat mixture and roll them into oval shapes.
- Make sure to press the meat tightly around the skewer. This helps it hold together while cooking.
Once you have the kebabs shaped, ensure to give them enough space on the grill. This way, they can cook evenly and develop nice grill marks. Happy grilling!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for grilling)
- Wooden or metal skewers
For Serving:
- 1 cup hummus
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients, plus around 10-12 minutes to grill the kebabs. Allow a little extra time for soaking wooden skewers if you’re using them. In total, you can enjoy this delicious dish in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, allspice, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly using your hands or a spatula until all the ingredients are well combined.
2. Preparing the Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This step will prevent them from burning on the grill.
3. Shaping the Kebabs:
Next, divide the beef mixture into equal portions, about the size of a golf ball. Shape each portion into long, oval-shaped kebabs, roughly 1 inch thick. Carefully insert a skewer into each kebab, pressing it tightly to keep its shape intact.
4. Grilling the Kebabs:
If you’d like, brush the kebabs lightly with olive oil to help avoid sticking. Place them on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on your grill.
5. Resting and Serving:
Once the kebabs are cooked through, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. To serve, add a generous scoop of hummus to the bottom of a serving bowl. Arrange the kebabs on top and garnish with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra pop of flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your flavorful Beef Kafta Kebabs with warm pita bread or alongside rice or a refreshing salad. Enjoy this tasty meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so you might want to add a splash of broth or a bit more olive oil to keep the kebabs moist.
How Do I Soak Wooden Skewers Properly?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re short on time, even a quick soak will help, but longer is always better for a more reliable skewer.
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to form the kebabs and grill. This will also help enhance the flavors as they meld together.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a pan over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick warm-up. Add a drizzle of olive oil if they seem dry!
