Beef Kafta Kebabs are juicy and tasty skewers made with ground beef mixed with herbs and spices. They’re perfectly grilled to make a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Grilling these kebabs is so much fun, and they smell amazing while cooking. Seriously, even your neighbors might come over for a taste! I like to serve them with fresh pita and a side salad for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Aim for an 80/20 beef blend for juicy kebabs. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but it may be less juicy. Ground lamb or turkey can also be used for a different flavor.
Onion: A small yellow onion is perfect since it adds a sweet flavor when cooked. You could swap it with shallots for a more delicate taste, or even skip it if you’re in a hurry.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness, while mint offers a refreshing hint. If you don’t have mint, try using cilantro or just skip it. If using dried herbs, remember to reduce the amount as they’re more potent!
Spices: Cumin and allspice are key for flavor. If you don’t have allspice, try mixing a little cinnamon with nutmeg instead. Paprika adds color, so use smoked paprika for a unique twist!
Wooden Skewers: Soaking skewers prevents burning. If you want, use metal skewers instead; they require no prep work, and they’re great for reusing!
How Do You Properly Form and Grill Kebabs?
Getting your kebabs just right can be tricky, but it’s all about the prep and cooking method. Here’s how to mold and grill them effectively:
- Combine the beef and ingredients in a bowl until mixed, but don’t overwork it; this keeps them tender.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions for uniform cooking. Mold each portion around a skewer, pressing firmly to adhere, but leave some space at the bottom for handling.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps get that nice char.
- Brush the kebabs with olive oil just before placing them on the grill. This keeps them from sticking.
- Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Enjoy your perfect kafta kebabs every time!
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Kebabs:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 12 minutes to grill, so you can have delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs ready in just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kafta Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and mint (if you chose to use it). Add in the cumin, allspice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. This is the flavorful base of your kebabs!
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Next, divide the beef mixture into equal portions. Depending on the size you want for your kebabs, you can make about 4-6 portions. Take each portion and mold it around a wooden skewer, flattening it slightly to form a long kebab shape. Make sure they are well packed so they hold together while grilling!
3. Grill the Kebabs:
Now it’s time to grill! Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the prepared kebabs with olive oil to prevent them from sticking. Grill the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to be cooked through and nicely charred on the outside—this is where the flavor really develops!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the kebabs are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a platter. You can serve them with sides of hummus, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. If you like, sprinkle some feta cheese on top for an extra treat. Feel free to garnish with more parsley and mint.
Enjoy your Beef Kafta Kebabs with warm pita bread or over a bed of rice or a fresh salad. Happy grilling!
Can I Use Different Ground Meat for Kafta Kebabs?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground lamb, turkey, or even chicken if you prefer. Just keep in mind that lean meats, like turkey or chicken, may benefit from a bit of added fat (like olive oil) to ensure juiciness.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh parsley or mint, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about one teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for. That said, fresh herbs provide a better flavor and aroma, so use them if possible!
How Do I 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 grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which will help retain their flavor and texture.
Can I Make These Kebabs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the kebab mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just mold them onto skewers just before grilling. If you want to freeze them, assemble the kebabs and freeze them uncooked, then grill directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
