Lebanese Kafta Easy (Printable)

Flavorful spiced meat skewers with warm Middle Eastern spices, fresh herbs, and onions. Ready in 35 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1.1 pounds ground lamb or beef (or a mix)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 1/2 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped

→ Spices & Seasoning

04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon ground allspice
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne or chili flakes (optional)

→ To Serve (optional)

11 - Lemon wedges
12 - Chopped fresh parsley
13 - Pita bread
14 - Tahini sauce

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, parsley, garlic, allspice, cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
02 - Mix thoroughly with your hands until fully combined and sticky.
03 - Divide the mixture into 8–10 portions. Shape each into an oval patty or around a skewer for kebabs.
04 - Preheat grill, grill pan, or oven broiler to medium-high heat.
05 - Grill or broil kafta for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
06 - Serve hot with pita bread, lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and tahini sauce, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The spice blend hits that perfect balance of warming and fresh flavors that keeps everyone guessing
  • They cook fast and reheat beautifully for lunch the next day
02 -
  • Do not overmix the meat once you add the spices or the kebabs can turn tough
  • Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before using or they will burn on the grill
03 -
  • Let the meat come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking
  • Squeeze fresh lemon right before eating to wake up all the spices

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