Sep 10, 2023, Updated Aug 25, 2024
What are Kafta Kabobs?
These kafta kabobs (or beef kafta kebabs) are a popular Lebanese dish made of ground meat, typically beef or lamb, that is seasoned with a blend of Middle Eastern spices, herbs and other ingredients. The seasoned meat mixture is shaped into long sausage-like forms around skewers and then grilled to perfection. A combination of fresh herbs like parsley and mint, along with aromatic spices such as coriander, cumin, and cinnamon, give the kabobs a distinct and flavorful taste. Kafta Kabobs are often served as a main course with rice, salads, or wrapped in pita bread, accompanied by various dips and sauces.
Origins
The exact origin of Kafta is unclear, as it has been a part of the culinary traditions of different regions for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Levant region, encompassing modern-day Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. These countries have a long history of meat-based dishes, and Kafta is considered one of their culinary treasures.
Kabab or Kebob? The Many Different Names
The term “kabob” is an anglicized version of the Arabic word “kebab,” which itself has various spellings and pronunciations depending on the region. In English, the plural form is usually “kabobs,” with an “s” added to the end of the word. However, in its original languages (like Arabic, Persian, Turkish), the word may not follow English pluralization rules. For instance, in Arabic, the plural form is “kabāb” while in Persian, it would be “kabāb-hā.” Kafta is known by different names in various countries and regions. For example: Variations and Regional Differences: Kafta recipes can vary slightly from one region to another, with different spices, herbs, and ingredients being used. In some areas, the addition of onions, garlic, parsley, or mint is common. Additionally, regional cooking methods and preferred types of meat can also influence the taste and texture of Kafta.
Gather Your Ingredients for the Best Kafta
Before you start, make sure you have all the essential ingredients to create this delicious dish:
Flavorful and juicy: The delicious blend of fresh herbs and spices creates an unforgettable taste that will have you craving more. They are dripping with juicy flavor. Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these mouthwatering kabobs on your plate in no time.
Ground beef: The main protein source in the recipe, providing a juicy and flavorful base. You can use lean ground beef or regular. Fresh parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color to the kabobs. Fresh mint: Provides a cooling contrast to the warm spices. Grated onion: Contributes moisture and subtle sweetness to the mixture. Minced garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungent taste.
Kafta Spices
Just a few pantry spices are needed to make this flavor-packed shish kafta recipe.
Ground coriander: Offers a slightly citrusy note to complement the other spices. Ground cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy flavor to the kabobs. Cinnamon: Adds a hint of sweet warmth to the spice blend. Kosher salt: Balances and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients. Black pepper: Provides mild heat and enhances the overall taste.
How to Make a Juicy Grilled Beef Kafta Kabob: Easy Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your mouthwatering beef kafta kabobs:
Grill or grill pan: For cooking the kabobs to achieve those desirable char marks. Skewers: Optional. If you want, you can make kafta skewers, using wooden, bamboo, or metal skewers to hold the meat mixture while grilling, ensuring even cooking. Large mixing bowl: For combining the meat mixture and seasoning ingredients. No need for a food processor (as that makes it easy to over-mince the meat and make a paste). Instant-read thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the kabobs for safe consumption.
Preheat grill: Ensures even cooking and perfect searing of the kabobs. Mix ingredients: Combine all ingredients in a bowl to create a well-seasoned beef mixture. Divide mixture: Portion the mixture into equal parts for consistent sizing and cooking. Shape kabobs: Form each portion into long sausage-like shapes, either freeform or on skewers. Grill kabobs: Cook your beef kafta kababs on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until they reach the desired internal temperature. Check temperature: Ensure the kabobs are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165ºF before serving.
How Do You Keep Kafta Kebobs From Breaking?
To prevent Kofta Kebabs from falling apart, follow these 5 simple tips:
What to Serve with Kafta Kabob
Serve your juicy beef kafta kabobs like a pro with these side dishes and presentation tips:
Yummy flatbread: Wrap the kabobs in warm homemade naan or Turkish bread for a satisfying handheld meal. Dips and sauces: Accompany the kabobs with flavorful dips like Indian yogurt sauce, hummus, or tahini sauce. Garnish: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or mint over the kabobs for added freshness and color. Couscous: Serve alongside any one of these delicious Israeli Couscous recipes or a classic couscous salad with lemon dressing. Salads: A fresh tabbouleh or fattoush salad complements the flavors of the kabobs perfectly. My Indian father-in-law’s famous Cucumber Yogurt Salad would also be great. Grilled vegetables: Add some grilled eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthy and tasty side option. Air fryer eggplant would be perfect.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Ensure your Beef Kafta Kabob stays fresh and delicious with these storage tips:
Make ahead: Prepare the meat mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours when you’re ready to grill. Storing leftovers: Store cooked kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing: Freeze uncooked, shaped kabobs on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Variations and Substitutions
Customize your Kafta Kabobs with these alternative options:
Alternate protein: Swap the ground beef for ground lamb, ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile. Additional spices: Experiment with other spices like paprika, allspice, or sumac for a unique twist. Veggie kabobs: For a vegetarian version, try using a mixture of grated vegetables, like zucchini and carrots, along with breadcrumbs and an egg as a binder.
Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Beef Kafta Kabob
Master the art of Kafta Kabob-making with these expert suggestions:
Don’t overmix the kafta mixture: Overmixing ground meat mixtures like kafta can result in a denser, tougher texture. This happens due to the development of myosin, a type of protein that acts as a binding agent. When ground meat is mixed, especially if it is mixed vigorously, the myosin develops more fully. While a certain amount of mixing is necessary to distribute the seasoning and other ingredients evenly, excessive mixing can result in a rubbery texture because it makes the meat mixture too cohesive and elastic. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed to keep the meat tender and juicy. Prevent sticking: Properly preheat the grill for at least 5 minutes. Lightly oil the grill grates or grill pan before cooking the kabobs to avoid them sticking. Don’t try to turn them until they lift easily Soak wooden skewers: If you want to grill them on skewers, soaking wooden or bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes ahead of time prevents them from burning during grilling.
If You Love Ground Beef Like I Do, Try These Recipes
Ground Beef Tacos: Flavorful tacos made with ground beef, spices, and fresh ingredients for an authentic taste. Chili Con Carne: A hearty and flavorful Mexican chili made with ground beef, beans, and spices. Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef: This richly flavorful spaghetti sauce is made in the crockpot for easy and delicious weeknight cooking. Meatloaf: The best moist and tender meatloaf with a sticky, caramelized topping. Keema Naan: This recipe can easily be adapted to use ground beef filling. The naan is made from scratch and is perfectly soft and fluffy.
Next Reading: Unique Ground Beef Recipes + Ground Beef Casserole Recipes
