Print

Grilled Kafta Kebabs

Grilled Kafta Kebabs
Print Recipe

Grilled Kafta Kebabs are juicy, flavorful Middle Eastern skewers made from ground beef or lamb mixed with fresh herbs and warm spices. Perfect for BBQs and gatherings, they offer a smoky, tender, and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and customize.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb (80/20 mix recommended)
  • 1 medium onion, finely grated
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Skewers (metal or wooden, soaked if wooden)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with finely grated onion, chopped parsley, ground cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil and gently mix everything together with your hands until well combined but not overworked. This ensures the kebabs stay tender.
  2. Shape the Kebabs: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them around skewers, forming long, oval-shaped logs about ¾ inch thick. Press firmly so the meat adheres well to the skewers, which helps prevent falling apart on the grill.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to avoid sticking.
  4. Grill the Kafta Kebabs: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully to achieve even grilling and nice grill marks. The kebabs should be cooked through and juicy, with a slightly charred exterior.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.

Notes

  • Choose the right meat: Ground beef or lamb with enough fat content keeps your kebabs juicy and flavorful.
  • Don’t skip the onion: The moisture from grated onion is key to tenderness and helps prevent dryness.
  • Chill before grilling: Refrigerating the shaped kebabs for 30 minutes helps them hold together better on the grill.
  • Use a thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure proper cooking.
  • Turn gently: Use tongs to flip the kebabs carefully, preserving their shape throughout grilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: kafta kebabs, grilled kebabs, Middle Eastern skewers, ground beef kebabs, lamb kebabs, BBQ kebabs, gluten free kebabs

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/grilled-kafta-kebabs/