Beef Kafta Kebabs are tasty and packed with flavor! These kebabs are made from ground beef mixed with herbs and spices, perfectly grilled on skewers.
They’re great for a family BBQ or a quick dinner. I love serving them with warm pita bread and a yogurt sauce. Trust me, they’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy result. If you want a leaner option, go for 90/10, but it might be less flavorful. Ground lamb or turkey can also work well if you’re looking for a different taste!
Onion: The grated onion adds moisture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of onion, consider using shallots or even green onions for a milder taste.
Parsley and Cilantro: Fresh herbs are key for brightness. If you can’t find fresh cilantro, you can skip it entirely or use fresh mint for a unique twist.
Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika to match your taste. You can also add a pinch of chili powder for some heat!
Olive Oil: Brushing with olive oil helps the kebabs cook without sticking. If you prefer, you can use melted butter or another oil with a high smoke point, like avocado oil.
How Do You Shape Kebabs Without Them Falling Apart?
Shaping the beef mixture onto skewers can be tricky! Here’s how to get perfect kebabs:
- First, wet your hands with water. This prevents the meat from sticking.
- Press the meat firmly around the skewer, shaping it into a long log. Make sure it’s tightly packed.
- Use a bit of olive oil on your hands if needed for extra slip.
Grill them for even cooking. Give them a few turns during grilling to ensure they brown nicely without falling apart!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Wooden or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 12 minutes for grilling. In total, you can have these delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs ready in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and optional cilantro. Also, add the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until the ingredients are well blended. This will give the kebabs lots of flavor!
2. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it over medium-high heat. This helps create a nice sear on your kebabs, locking in the juicy flavors.
3. Form the Kebabs:
Divide the beef mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions, depending on how big you want your kebabs. Take one portion and shape it into a long oval or log shape around a skewer, pressing it firmly so it sticks well. Repeat this for each portion until you have your kebabs ready to grill.
4. Brush with Olive Oil:
To prevent sticking and to promote a nice char, brush the formed kebabs with olive oil evenly on all sides. This step is quick and helps achieve that perfect grill finish.
5. Grill the Kebabs:
Place the kebabs on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally so they brown evenly on all sides. You want to make sure they are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re done grilling, carefully remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices. Serve the kebabs over a nice bed of hummus, and add garnishes like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese if you like. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Ground Lamb or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes! You can definitely substitute ground lamb or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that lamb will impart a richer flavor, while chicken will be lighter. If using chicken, ensure it’s well-seasoned to compensate for its milder taste.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh parsley or cilantro, you can use dried herbs. A general rule of thumb is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, you could also use a store-bought spice blend that includes some of these flavors!
How to Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and shape it onto skewers up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
