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Beef Kafta Kebabs Recipe

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Beef Kafta Kebabs feature finely chopped beef mixed with fragrant Middle Eastern spices, onions, parsley, and mint formed around skewers for juicy, charred patties. Serve with pita, tzatziki, and tabbouleh for authentic Mediterranean feast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 small yellow onion, grated & liquid squeezed
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground allspice
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
  • Serving:
  • Warm pita bread
  • Tzatziki or tahini sauce
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  • 1. Soak 8-10 wooden skewers in water 30 minutes (prevents burning). Grate onion, squeeze dry using clean towel.
  • 2. In large bowl, combine beef, onion, parsley, mint, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, allspice, salt, pepper. Mix gently with hands until evenly combined (don’t overwork).
  • 3. Divide into 8-10 portions (about 2 oz each). Mold each firmly around skewer into 4-inch sausage shape, about 1-inch thick. Press grooves using fingers for classic look. Place on parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate 30 minutes (firms for grilling).
  • 4. Preheat grill to medium-high (400-450°F). Brush kebabs lightly with olive oil.
  • 5. Grill 10-12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes until charred and internal temp reaches 160°F for medium. Rest 5 minutes.
  • 6. Serve immediately with pita, tzatziki, lemon wedges.

Notes

  • 80/20 beef ratio essential fat keeps kebabs juicy.
  • Grated onion blends better than diced; squeeze moisture prevents steaming.
  • Chill shaped kebabs prevents falling off skewers.
  • Broiler alternative: 6 inches from heat, 10 minutes total.
  • Make ahead: refrigerate raw up to 24 hours or freeze 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef kafta kebabs, kofta skewers, middle eastern beef patties

Find it online: https://dishfoody.com/beef-kafta-kebabs-lebanese-skewers-recipe/