Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe

If you’re looking to bring a taste of the Middle East to your dinner table, this Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe is the flavorful answer. Juicy, herb-packed ground beef is blended with onions, fresh parsley, and a bouquet of spices, then shaped into savory logs or patties and grilled or baked to perfection. Kafta is your ticket to a quick, family-friendly meal that’s wonderful with simple sides or stuffed into warm pita. Whether you’re new to Lebanese cooking or just craving a classic, this recipe makes it effortless to whip up authentic flavors in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for kafta is wonderfully straightforward. Each component brings out the vibrant, signature taste and texture that makes this dish so iconic—nothing fancy, just honest flavors working together beautifully.

• Ground Beef or Lamb: Pick a blend with a bit of fat for juicy, tender kafta; lamb adds rich flavor, while beef keeps it classic and light.
• Onion: Finely grated onion melts into the meat, adding moisture and subtle sweetness.
• Fresh Parsley: Don’t skimp—parsley brings brightness and that unmistakable Mediterranean green fleck throughout.
• Fresh Garlic: Just enough to give the kafta aromatic depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Ground Allspice: Adds the warm, subtly sweet undertone typical of Lebanese spice blends.
• Ground Cinnamon: A surprising pinch gives kafta its signature Middle Eastern aroma.
• Ground Black Pepper: Enhances all the savory notes, giving a gentle kick.
• Salt: Brings out the flavors in each ingredient and seasons the meat perfectly.

How to Make Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely mincing (or better yet, grating) your onion and chopping your parsley as finely as you can. The more finely chopped, the better they’ll integrate into the meat, helping to keep each bite tender and flavorful. If you have a food processor, a quick blitz works beautifully here.

Step 2: Mix the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your ground beef or lamb with the onion, parsley, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Use your hands to gently but thoroughly mix until everything is evenly distributed. Don’t rush this step: well-blended mixture means the spices shine in every bite without overworking the meat and making it tough.

Step 3: Shape the Kafta

Take small portions of the mixture and form them into oval logs about four inches long or shape them into small patties. If you’re feeling traditional, you can thread them onto skewers for a grill-ready Mediterranean experience, but patties work perfectly for an everyday meal, too.

Step 4: Cook the Kafta

Heat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat, brushing lightly with oil. Cook the kafta for 3–4 minutes on each side until deeply browned and cooked through. Baking is also a hands-off option: line a baking tray with parchment and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, let the kafta rest for a couple of minutes—this keeps the juices inside and ensures every bite is as succulent as possible. Serve hot immediately with your favorite accompaniments (and a squeeze of lemon is always a winning touch!).

How to Serve Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe

Garnishes

Top your kafta with chopped fresh parsley, a scattering of sumac, or a few pomegranate seeds for pop and color. A dollop of creamy tahini or a swirl of garlicky yogurt adds coolness and tang that complements the spiced meat beautifully.

Side Dishes

Lebanese kafta loves company! Pair it with warm pita bread, a crisp cucumber-tomato salad, classic hummus, or a heap of fluffy rice. These sides soak up all the delicious juices and round out the meal with freshness and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try mini kafta sliders on bite-sized buns with pickled vegetables, or serve kafta tucked into pita wraps with greens and sauces. You can even create a vibrant dinner platter by layering kafta with grilled vegetables and drizzling with zesty sauces. The Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe is incredibly versatile whether you’re serving family style or setting out for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the leftovers almost better the next day, especially tucked into a quick sandwich or tossed into a salad.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, kafta freezes beautifully. Arrange shaped, uncooked kafta on a tray and place in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months. You can cook straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes on the grill or in the oven.

Reheating

To bring leftover kafta back to life, gently reheat in a covered skillet with a splash of water or broth, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Microwaving works too, just take care not to overcook and dry them out.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe with ground chicken or turkey?

Absolutely! While beef and lamb are traditional, ground chicken or turkey work well—just choose a blend with a bit of fat for best flavor and moisture.

Do I need special spices to make kafta taste authentic?

The simple combination of allspice and cinnamon is key to that classic Lebanese taste, but you can also add a pinch of cumin or coriander if you like extra warmth.

Can I cook kafta in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, baking is a great hands-off method. Lay your shaped kafta on a parchment-lined tray and bake at 400°F (200°C), turning halfway for even browning.

What’s the difference between kofta and kafta?

Kofta is a broader term used across the Middle East and South Asia for spiced meatballs or logs, while kafta refers to the distinctive Lebanese-style version in this Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Definitely. Mixing the ingredients several hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together. Keep the mixture chilled and shape just before cooking for best results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple, soul-satisfying meal, the Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe is a must-try. It brings a feast of flavor to your home with minimal fuss and maximum reward. Give it a go—you just might discover your new favorite way to enjoy ground meat, Lebanese-style!

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