Beef Kafta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold, aromatic flavors
• Juicy and tender with simple ingredients
• Perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking
• Great for meal prep
• Pairs well with a variety of sides
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
1 small onion, very finely grated or minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking, if pan-frying)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, allspice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the kafta tender.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into long oval logs around skewers, or form into small patties if not using skewers.
4. If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning carefully, until fully cooked and nicely browned.
5. If pan-cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Lamb Kafta: Substitute half or all of the beef with ground lamb for a richer flavor.

Spicy Kafta: Add finely chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Herb-Loaded Version: Include fresh mint or cilantro for extra freshness.

Oven-Baked Kafta: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Cheese-Stuffed Kafta: Insert a small strip of mozzarella or halloumi inside each log before cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover beef kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out.

Cooked kafta can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make beef kafta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator before cooking.

Why is my kafta falling apart?

This can happen if the mixture is too wet or not mixed enough. Make sure the onion is finely grated and excess liquid is squeezed out.

Do I need skewers?

No, skewers are traditional but optional. You can shape the mixture into patties or logs and cook them directly in a pan.

What should I serve with beef kafta?

It pairs well with rice, flatbread, hummus, yogurt sauce, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How do I keep kafta juicy?

Avoid overmixing the meat and do not overcook. Using slightly higher-fat ground beef also helps maintain moisture.

Can I cook kafta in the oven?

Yes, baking is a convenient option and works well when cooking larger batches.

Is beef kafta spicy?

Traditional beef kafta is flavorful but not typically spicy. You can adjust the heat level to your preference.

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Yes, ground turkey can be used, but the flavor and texture will be lighter. Be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out more quickly.

How do I know when it’s fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C), and the outside should be nicely browned.

Can I freeze uncooked kafta?

Yes, shape the kafta and freeze on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Beef kafta is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings warm spices and fresh herbs together in every bite. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked indoors, it’s a versatile recipe that works for weeknight meals or special gatherings. With easy preparation and bold taste, this beef kafta recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Beef Kafta Recipe

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Beef kafta is a juicy and aromatic Middle Eastern dish made with ground beef, fresh herbs, onions, and warm spices. Shaped into skewers or patties and grilled or pan-cooked, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling or Pan-Frying
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, very finely grated or minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking, if pan-frying)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, allspice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently with your hands until evenly combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into oval logs around skewers or form into patties.
4. For grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil grates. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
5. For pan-cooking: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Squeeze excess moisture from grated onion to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
• Avoid overmixing to keep the kafta tender and juicy.
• Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
• Can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
• Calories: 280 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg