There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a juicy, well-seasoned kafta kebab. This Middle Eastern favorite combines the rich flavors of ground beef with a medley of aromatic spices and herbs, creating a taste experience that’s as delightful as any culinary journey you might undertake. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of global cuisine in your kitchen, ground beef kafta kebabs are a delicious choice that’s guaranteed to please.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Skewers
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
How to Make Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients. Finely chop the onion, parsley, and garlic. These will be mixed into the ground beef, providing both moisture and flavor that make the kebabs truly stand out. Preparation is key, so ensure everything is finely and uniformly chopped for the best texture.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the chopped onion, garlic, and parsley. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, paprika, and coriander. Don’t forget generous pinches of salt and pepper. Using your hands, mix everything until the spices are evenly distributed. The tactile nature of this step means you’ll intuitively feel when the mixture is just right.
Step 3: Shape the Kebabs
Take portions of the beef mixture and shape them around skewers to form long, cylindrical kebabs. Aim for uniformity in size so they cook evenly. A little tip: Moisten your hands with water or a touch of oil to prevent sticking as you shape the meat.
Step 4: Grill the Kebabs
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush each kebab lightly with olive oil to promote a beautiful char on the outside. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until well browned and cooked to your liking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, allow the kebabs to rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor. Serve hot with your choice of sides, like a fresh salad or warm pita bread.
How to Serve Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs pair brilliantly with a range of side dishes. Present them with a warm, soft pita, a zesty tabbouleh salad, or a creamy hummus dip. Don’t shy away from a drizzle of tahini sauce or a sprinkle of fresh lemon juice to elevate the flavors further. These kebabs are also excellent wrapped in flatbreads along with crunchy vegetables for an easy meal-in-one delight.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure you achieve the most tender and flavorful kebabs, use fresh and high-quality ground beef. Be mindful not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the kebabs dense. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning.
Protein-Packed Perfection: High-Protein Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs
If you’re looking for a protein-rich dish, Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs are an excellent choice. By using lean ground beef and minimizing additional fillers, you can create a high-protein meal perfect for an energy boost post-workout or an impressive main course at a dinner party.
Carb-Conscious Dining: Low-Carb Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs
Turn Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs into a low-carb delight by serving them alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. You can skip the bread and opt for lettuce wraps instead, making it a perfect dish for those watching their carb intake while still satisfying their taste buds.
Storage Instructions
Leftover kafta kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply reheat on a grill or in the oven for a taste that’s just as delicious as day one.
FAQs
Q: Can I make kafta kebabs in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together.
Q: What should I do if my kebabs are falling off the skewers?
A: Ensure that the mixture is not too moist by draining any excess liquid from the chopped vegetables and you can add a bit of bread crumbs if needed to bind.
Q: Is there an alternative to beef for these kebabs?
A: Certainly, you can use lamb or chicken as an alternative to beef in these kebabs for a different taste profile.
Q: Can I pan-fry kafta kebabs instead of grilling?
A: Yes, you can pan-fry them over medium heat until they’re thoroughly cooked.
Relish and Share Your Culinary Creations
These Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs are more than just a meal; they’re a culinary journey. Enjoy every bite, share the recipe with friends, and don’t forget to leave your comments below about how it turned out! Let’s transform dinner one kebab at a time.
Ground Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- small onion
- garlic
- parsley
- ground cumin
- paprika
- coriander
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare the ingredients by finely chopping the onion, garlic, and parsley.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the beef mixture around skewers into long kebabs.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill kebabs, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- Let kebabs rest before serving. Serve with pita and sides of choice.