Description
A straightforward recipe for authentic Lebanese Kafta, perfect for Iftar or Suhoor during Ramadan.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling/baking)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, grated onion, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper if you are using it.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly with your hands until they are just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the Kafta tough.
- Shape the mixture into small, flat patties (about 1/2 inch thick) or small sausage shapes. For make-ahead convenience, you can shape them and place them on a parchment-lined tray in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If baking, lightly grease a baking sheet.
- If grilling, brush the Kafta lightly with olive oil. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes per side until cooked through and nicely charred.
- If baking, place the patties on the prepared sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned.
- Serve hot with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tahini sauce or yogurt.
Notes
- You can prepare the Kafta mixture up to one day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Shape just before cooking.
- For Suhoor, consider making Kafta patties and cooking them slightly less, then reheating them quickly in the morning.
- This recipe uses a mix of beef and lamb for traditional flavor; you can use all ground beef if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 patties
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 32
- Cholesterol: 110