Beef Kafta Kebabs

Category: Beef Recipes

Turn your grilling game up a notch with these Beef Kafta Kebabs! Made with minced beef, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, they’re perfect for summer cookouts or family dinners. These flavorful kebabs are easy to make and absolutely delicious when served with a side of tzatziki or in pita bread. Save this recipe for your next gathering and impress your guests!

Beef Kafta Kebabs are tasty and fun to make! These juicy skewers are made with ground beef mixed with fresh herbs and spices, which gives them a zesty flavor that everyone loves.

I love grilling these for a casual get-together. Just toss them on the barbecue and enjoy the yummy smell. Plus, they make a perfect pairing with pita bread and your favorite dips!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: A mix of 80/20 fat content is ideal for juicy kebabs. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind the texture may be slightly different.

Onion: Finely grated onion adds moisture and flavor. If you want a milder taste, consider using green onions instead, or even onion powder if that’s all you have. Just keep the quantity in check!

Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have any, cilantro can be a great substitute for a different flavor twist. Dried parsley can work in a pinch, but use less—about a tablespoon since it’s more concentrated.

Spices: Cumin and coriander are classic here. If you’re out of these spices, ground cinnamon and chili powder can add a warm flavor, albeit a different profile altogether. Smoked paprika is key for a smoky depth; regular paprika can be used, but you lose that smoky element.

Olive Oil: This oil is excellent for grilling. You can swap it for another oil with a high smoke point, like canola or avocado oil, if you prefer.

How Can I Ensure My Kebabs Stay Juicy and Flavorful?

Mixing well and shaping your kebabs is crucial for keeping them moist. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Use your hands to mix ingredients gently. Over-mixing can toughen the meat.
  • When shaping the mixture onto skewers, press the meat firmly but not too hard, as this will help them hold together without becoming dense.
  • Grill the kebabs on medium-high heat. This helps to brown the outside quickly while keeping the inside juicy.
  • Let them rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender.

How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to cook on the grill. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mixing the Kebabs:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and the spices: cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed for the best flavor!

2. Shaping the Kebabs:

Once the mixture is ready, divide it into equal portions, about 4 to 6, depending on how thick you want your kebabs. Take each portion and gently shape it around a skewer, forming long kebabs. Press them firmly so they hold together well while cooking.

3. Grilling the Kebabs:

Next, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F. Flip them carefully to avoid breaking.

4. Finishing Touches:

Once cooked, take the kebabs off the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve these tasty Beef Kafta Kebabs on a plate with sides like hummus, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. If you like, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch.

Enjoy your flavorful Beef Kafta Kebabs!

Can I Use Ground Lamb or Chicken Instead of Beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground lamb or chicken for the beef. Keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor slightly, so you might want to adjust the spices to complement the new protein. For chicken, ensure it cooks to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?

No worries! Dried parsley can be used in a pinch. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley instead of the 1/4 cup of fresh. Alternatively, you could use other fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a different, but still delicious, flavor!

Can I Make These Kebabs Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the kebabs and shape them on the skewers, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, take them out of the fridge about 15-20 minutes beforehand to bring them to room temperature.

How Should I Store Leftover Kebabs?

Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. Enjoy them as is or chop them up to add to salads or wraps!

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