Name: Authentic Lebanese Kafta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio); ½ lb (225g) ground lamb (80/20 fat ratio, optional, can use all beef); 1 medium onion, grated or very finely diced; ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground allspice; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); Optional: ¼ cup finely minced red bell pepper or tomato for extra moisture; Wooden or metal skewers (if grilling/baking on skewers); Olive oil for cooking

Description

Master the art of Lebanese Kafta with this easy-to-follow recipe, guaranteeing juicy, flavorful skewers or patties every time. Perfect for a taste of the Middle East at home.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
½ lb (225g) ground lamb (80/20 fat ratio, optional, can use all beef)
1 medium onion, grated or very finely diced
½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground allspice
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
Optional: ¼ cup finely minced red bell pepper or tomato for extra moisture
Wooden or metal skewers (if grilling/baking on skewers)
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Prepare Aromatics: Grate or very finely dice the onion. Finely chop the fresh parsley and mince the garlic. If grating onion, gently squeeze out any excess liquid.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground lamb (if using), prepared onion, parsley, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Add optional bell pepper/tomato if desired.
3. Mix Gently: Using your hands, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the kafta tough.
4. Shape Kafta: If using skewers, take about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture and firmly mold it around each skewer into an even cylinder. If not using skewers, form into small, elongated patties (about 1/2 inch thick and 3-4 inches long). Wetting your hands can help prevent sticking.
5. Cook Kafta (Choose one method):
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F/200°C). Lightly oil grates. Cook 3-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (160°F/71°C internal temp).
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place kafta on a lined baking sheet. Bake 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through.
- Pan-Fry: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve: Serve hot with classic Lebanese sides like hummus, tabbouleh, yogurt sauce, pita bread, and pickles.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins