Beef Kafta Kebabs are tender and juicy ground beef mixed with herbs and spices, shaped into delicious skewers. They’re perfect for grilling and bring a great party vibe!
Who can resist the smell of these kebabs sizzling on the barbecue? I love serving them with warm pita bread and a side of fresh salad. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80% lean beef gives the kebabs a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try ground turkey or chicken, though the texture might be slightly different.
Onion and Garlic: Grated onion adds moisture and sweetness to the mix, while minced garlic brings a punch of flavor. If you want a milder onion taste, use shallots instead. For a shortcut, onion powder works too!
Herbs: Fresh parsley is essential for that vibrant taste, and cilantro adds a wonderful touch if you like its flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, just double the parsley or use fresh mint for a different twist.
Spices: Cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon create a flavorful blend. If you want some heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a smokier flavor, smoked paprika is a fun substitute.
Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them to avoid burning. If you have metal skewers, they’re perfect and no soaking is needed. They also challenge you to make kebabs without the fear of them falling apart!
How Do I Shape the Perfect Kebabs?
Shaping kebabs can feel tricky, but it’s all about your technique. A little practice will help you get the shape just right.
- Start with a handful of your beef mixture. Make sure it’s well mixed, so all flavors are evenly distributed.
- Mold it around the skewer using your hands, forming a long, oval shape that’s not too thick (about the width of a golf ball).
- Leave space at the ends of the skewer, so they’re easier to handle. If they’re slipping, wet your hands slightly for easier shaping.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the skewers; this will help them cook evenly and develop that delicious char on the grill.
Enjoy these tips and happy grilling! Your Beef Kafta Kebabs will impress everyone at the table!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For Garnishing:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Hummus (for serving)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy and perfect for a delicious meal any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro (if using), cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to blend everything together until it’s well combined.
2. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to stop them from burning on the grill.
3. Mold the Kebabs:
Take a handful of the beef mixture and form it around a skewer, shaping it into a long, oval kebab. Make sure it sticks well to the skewer. Repeat this step until you’ve made about 6 to 8 kebabs.
4. Brush with Olive Oil:
Lightly brush the shaped kebabs with olive oil. This helps them not stick to the grill and gives them a nice, golden color.
5. Grill the Kebabs:
Place the kebabs on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to get an even char on all sides. Make sure they are cooked all the way through.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once the kebabs are grilled, take them off the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
7. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, place the kebabs over a generous spread of hummus on a platter. Garnish with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese for a fresh and tasty presentation.
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs with extra hummus on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. Keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil or an egg to help bind the mixture together and keep it moist during grilling.
Can I Prepare the Kebabs in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the kebabs a day ahead! Simply form them on the skewers and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just brush with olive oil right before grilling!
How to Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option but may lead to a softer texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Hummus for Serving?
If you don’t have hummus, you can try tzatziki sauce, yogurt, or even a tahini sauce for a delicious alternative. These dips complement the flavors of the kebabs beautifully, adding creaminess and a burst of additional taste!
