Beef Kafta is quick to prepare, packed with aromatic spices, and incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for grilling season, but can also be cooked indoors in a pan or oven. With its juicy interior and slightly charred exterior, kafta makes an impressive dish that’s both hearty and healthy. It’s also naturally gluten-free and easy to make in bulk for meal prep or gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
Onion, finely grated or minced
Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Ground allspice
Ground cinnamon
Ground black pepper
Salt
Paprika (optional)
Cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional for heat)
Skewers (optional for grilling)
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, parsley, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, pepper, salt, and any optional spices.
Mix thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until fully combined and sticky.
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into logs, patties, or onto skewers.
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
Cook kafta for 4–5 minutes per side, or until browned on the outside and fully cooked through inside.
Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve with warm pita, garlic sauce, hummus, or a side of rice and salad.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cook time, totaling 25 minutes.
Variations
Kafta Kebabs: Shape onto skewers for a traditional presentation and easy grilling.
Kafta Burgers: Shape into patties and serve in buns with Mediterranean toppings.
Lamb or Chicken: Substitute beef with ground lamb for a richer flavor, or chicken for a leaner option.
Oven-Baked Kafta: Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Stuffed Kafta: Add a cube of mozzarella or feta inside each kafta for a cheesy surprise.
Storage/Reheating
Store cooked kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven until hot. You can also microwave in short intervals. Freeze uncooked kafta shapes on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
FAQs
What is the difference between kafta and kebab?
Kafta typically refers to ground meat mixed with spices and herbs, shaped into logs or patties. Kebab can refer to any type of grilled meat, often chunks rather than ground.
Can I use lean ground beef?
Yes, but a little fat (like 80/20 beef) helps keep the kafta juicy. Leaner beef may result in a drier texture.
How do I keep kafta from falling apart?
Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together well. Don’t skip the onion, as its moisture helps bind the mixture.
Can I prepare kafta ahead of time?
Yes, shape and store the kafta in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Is kafta spicy?
Traditional kafta is flavorful but not spicy. You can add cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat if desired.
Can I cook kafta in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What should I serve with beef kafta?
Kafta pairs well with rice pilaf, pita bread, hummus, garlic sauce, tzatziki, or chopped salads.
Can I grill kafta indoors?
Yes, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for great results.
What herbs are essential in kafta?
Fresh parsley is key. You can also add mint or cilantro for added depth, but parsley is traditional.
Can I freeze kafta?
Yes, freeze shaped raw kafta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Conclusion
Beef Kafta is a deliciously seasoned, easy-to-make dish that brings Middle Eastern flair to your table. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-cooked, its juicy texture and rich spices make it a satisfying favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, kafta is a versatile recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Beef Kafta is a Middle Eastern dish made with ground beef, herbs, and warm spices, shaped into logs or patties and grilled to perfection. Juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, it’s a versatile dish that’s great for quick dinners or festive gatherings.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Grilling
Cuisine:Middle Eastern
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
1 small onion, finely grated or minced
½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground allspice
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Skewers (optional, for grilling)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, parsley, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, pepper, salt, and any optional spices.
Mix thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until fully combined and slightly sticky in texture.
Divide the mixture and shape into logs, patties, or onto skewers as desired.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
Cook the kafta for 4–5 minutes per side until browned on the outside and cooked through inside.
Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm with pita, hummus, garlic sauce, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Mix the beef mixture thoroughly to help bind and prevent crumbling during cooking.Shape kafta onto skewers for traditional presentation and easy grilling.Use ground lamb or chicken for variation in flavor or fat content.To bake instead of grill, cook at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.Leftover kafta is great in wraps, bowls, or salads the next day.
