Beef Kafta Kebabs are juicy and flavorful ground beef skewers mixed with herbs and spices. They’re great for grilling and perfect for a tasty barbecue night!
These kebabs are so easy to make—I just mix the meat with some parsley and spices, shape them onto skewers, and toss them on the grill. Yum! 🍢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal for juicy kebabs. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though the texture will change slightly.
Onion: Finely grated onion adds moisture and sweetness. If you’re onion-averse, try using shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives an aromatic punch. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder (1/4 tsp per clove) can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh parsley brightens the flavor. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried will work—just use about 1 tablespoon. For herbs, add mint if you want a twist!
Wooden Skewers: Soaking prevents burning on the grill. If you prefer, you can use metal skewers, which are reusable and don’t need soaking.
How Do I Shape the Perfect Kebabs?
Shaping kebabs can feel tricky at first, but it’s all about the right technique. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Start with clean, damp hands—they help prevent sticking.
- Take about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture. Roll it into a ball and then gently elongate it into an oval shape.
- Press the meat onto the skewer, making sure it’s well adhered. Don’t pack it too tightly; this ensures even cooking and juiciness.
- For extra flair, try flattening the kebabs slightly or shaping them in a spiral around the skewer for a unique look.
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
For Serving (Optional):
- Pita bread
- Hummus
- Fresh cucumber, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion slices
- Feta cheese, crumbled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will require about 15 minutes of cooking time. So, set aside around 30 minutes total to have delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely grated onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Then, add in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground allspice, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together until well combined. This is where all those delicious flavors come together!
2. Shaping the Kebabs:
Next, divide the beef mixture into equal parts, about 1/4 cup each. Take each portion and mold it around the soaked wooden skewers, shaping them into long, oval-shaped kebabs. Make sure they’re not too thick, so they cook evenly on the grill.
3. Grilling the Kebabs:
Now it’s time to grill! Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, lightly brush the kebabs with olive oil to help them brown nicely. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them nicely browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
4. Serving the Kebabs:
Once your kebabs are cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes—this helps keep them juicy! Serve the kebabs on a platter with optional sides like pita bread, hummus, and fresh veggies. Don’t forget to sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top and garnish with extra chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy your flavorful Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil to keep the kebabs moist. If using ground turkey, aim for a mix that includes dark meat for added flavor.
Can I Prep the Kebabs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the kebab mixture in advance! Shape the kebabs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling. Just remember to soak the skewers in water if you’re using wooden ones, and be sure to bring the kebabs to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Adding a sprinkle of water can help keep them moist while reheating!
Can I Use Different Spices?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can experiment with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or add some chili powder for heat. Just ensure you keep balance in flavor by not overwhelming with strong spices!
