Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb) Recipe
Lebanese Kafta is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish made from lean ground beef or lamb mixed with fresh herbs and traditional Lebanese 7 spice. These spiced meat patties or skewers are either grilled or pan-fried to perfection, then served with sliced tomatoes and accompanied by rice, fresh salad, or wrapped in flatbread. This classic recipe captures the authentic and aromatic taste of Lebanese cuisine in a simple, easy-to-make meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 10 kafta patties 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground lamb)
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped
- 2 tsp Lebanese 7 spice
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cooking Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil (only if cooking in skillet)
- 1 large tomato or 2–3 Plum or Roma tomatoes, sliced
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or lamb) with the diced yellow onion, chopped parsley, Lebanese 7 spice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the Kafta: Divide the meat mixture into 6 to 10 patties or long, thick finger shapes depending on your preference. You may optionally thread the mixture onto skewers for grilling.
- Prepare for Cooking: If grilling, clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. If cooking in a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Kafta: For grilling, place the kafta on the grill over medium heat and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking and grill marks on all sides. For skillet cooking, brown the patties on all sides, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until thoroughly cooked.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Arrange the sliced tomatoes on the grill or in the skillet with the meat during the last few minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove the kafta and tomatoes from the heat and serve immediately. Pair with rice, fresh salad, or wrap in lavash or pita bread for a delicious traditional meal.
Notes
- Use finely diced onion to blend smoothly into the mixture for better texture.
- If grilling, turning the kafta frequently helps form a nice crust and cook evenly without drying out.
- Kafta can be served with tahini sauce, garlic yogurt, or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for added flavor.
- Using lean meat helps in keeping the patties firm and less greasy.
Keywords: Lebanese Kafta, Middle Eastern Recipe, Ground Beef Recipe, Grilled Kafta, Lamb Kafta, Lebanese 7 spice, Grilled Meat Patties
Find it online: https://annakocht.com/lebanese-kafta-beef-or-lamb-recipe/
