Description
Lebanese Kafta (Beef or Lamb) is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from ground beef or lamb, blended with fresh parsley, grated onion, and Lebanese 7 spice. Perfect for grilling or pan-frying, this flavorful dish is often served with rice, salad, or wrapped in flatbread. Enjoy a taste of Lebanon with this easy-to-make, healthy, and versatile recipe.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely grated and excess liquid squeezed out
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lebanese 7 spice blend
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or frying)
- Optional: Sliced tomatoes for grilling
Instructions
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, grated onion, chopped parsley, Lebanese 7 spice blend, salt, and black pepper. Combine well until fully incorporated. -
Shape the Kafta:
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into an oval patty or mold around skewers for kebabs. -
Cook the Kafta:
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the kafta with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill for about 5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kafta and cook for about 5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
-
Optional – Grill Tomatoes:
If desired, place sliced tomatoes on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking the kafta. Grill until slightly charred and softened. -
Serve:
Serve the kafta hot with rice, salad, or wrapped in flatbread. Serve with grilled tomatoes if prepared.
Notes
- Variations include making spicy kafta by adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes, or cheesy kafta by incorporating crumbled feta or mozzarella.
- For a vegan alternative, use mashed chickpeas or lentils with the same spices.
- To store, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Lebanese
