Beef Kafta Kebabs are juicy meat skewers that are packed with flavor. They are made with ground beef, herbs, and spices, making every bite deliciously tasty and satisfying!
These kebabs are perfect for grilling, and they make any BBQ a hit. I love to serve them with fresh pita and a side of yogurt sauce—it’s hard to go back once you try it this way!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they’ll be less juicy. Just remember to check cooking times, as leaner meat cooks faster.
Onion: A small onion, finely chopped gives great flavor. If you’re in a rush, using onion powder (1 teaspoon) can be a good shortcut, though fresh adds a nice texture and sweetness.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is essential for flavor. Mint is optional, but it adds a fresh twist. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried ones can be used; just reduce the amount to about a tablespoon since they’re stronger.
Spices: The mix of cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon is what makes these kebabs special. If you don’t have cumin, try using taco seasoning instead for a different flavor. You can also play with the amount of cinnamon for a more intense flavor.
Skewers: Wooden skewers should always be soaked in water to prevent burning. If you have metal skewers, they work great without soaking and can give grill marks to your kebabs.
How Do I Shape the Kebabs So They Don’t Fall Apart?
Shaping the kebabs is crucial. To ensure they hold together during cooking, follow these steps:
- Mix the beef and other ingredients thoroughly; this helps bind everything together.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions—about 1/4 pound for each kebab works well.
- Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking while rolling the mixture into an oval shape.
- Firmly press the mixture onto the skewer, making sure it’s well-shaped and covers the skewer entirely.
Cook carefully on a preheated grill, and don’t flip them too soon. This way, they develop a nice crust, holding everything in place!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
For Serving:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Hummus or tahini
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 12-15 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes to prepare and serve these tasty Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and mint if you’re using it. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together well until all the ingredients are combined nicely.
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into equal portions. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer, giving them a long, oval shape. Make sure they are tightly formed so they don’t fall apart when you cook them. Do this for all the portions.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Now it’s time to get your grill or grill pan ready! Preheat it over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill with olive oil to help prevent the kebabs from sticking.
4. Cook the Kebabs:
Lay the skewers on the grill and let them cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F. So keep an eye on them!
5. Prepare the Serving Platter:
While the kebabs grill, it’s a great time to prepare your serving platter! Spread a layer of hummus or tahini on the plate. Then arrange the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion around the edges. This makes for a beautiful presentation!
6. Let Kebabs Rest:
After grilling, take the kebabs off the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps them stay juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, place the kebabs on your platter. Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top and give them a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with extra hummus or tahini on the side, and enjoy your homemade Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Can I Use Ground Lamb or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground lamb or chicken for beef. If using chicken, consider adding a bit more seasoning or moisture since chicken can be drier. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure they reach 165°F for chicken or the desired doneness for lamb.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! Dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1 teaspoon of dried mint for the fresh counterparts. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way!
How Can I Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or you can microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
What Should I Serve With Beef Kafta Kebabs?
These kebabs go great with a side of grilled vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them in pita bread with your favorite toppings, like tahini or tzatziki for a delicious wrap!
