Lebanese Kafta: Juicy Herb-Infused Patties You’ll Love Recipe
Introduction
Lebanese Kafta are juicy, herb-infused patties that bring vibrant Middle Eastern flavors to your table. Made with a fragrant blend of ground meat, fresh herbs, and spices, these patties are perfect grilled or pan-seared for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef or Lamb (Can mix both for richer flavor or substitute with lean ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 medium Grated Onion (Drain well to prevent excess moisture from affecting the mixture)
- 1 cup Chopped Parsley (Cilantro can be used as a substitute)
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Adjust quantity based on preference or use garlic powder)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1 tsp Salt (Essential for enhancing flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Pepper (Adjust to preference)
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne (Optional for added heat)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Ideal for cooking)
- 1 medium Lemon (For added brightness)
- 4 pieces Pita or Rice (Delicious side for the kafta meal)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, cumin, allspice, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Mix well until the mixture is sticky and evenly combined, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 2: Form the mixture into logs or patties about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Arrange them neatly on a platter, ready for cooking.
- Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C) or heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 4: Grill or pan-sear the kafta patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Step 5: Let the kafta rest for a minute before serving. Serve with pita or rice and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for extra brightness. Optionally, drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce for added flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Drain the grated onion well to avoid adding excess moisture that can make the patties fall apart.
- Mixing beef and lamb adds richness, but lean turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
- Use cilantro instead of parsley for a different herbaceous note.
- Serve with a side of fresh salad, pickled vegetables, or your favorite Middle Eastern dips.
Storage
Store any leftover cooked kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to keep them juicy. The raw mixture can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze kafta patties?
Yes, you can freeze both raw and cooked kafta patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
What can I serve with kafta?
Kafta pairs wonderfully with pita bread, rice, fresh salads like tabbouleh, and sauces such as tahini, yogurt garlic sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Print
Lebanese Kafta: Juicy Herb-Infused Patties You’ll Love Recipe
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Lebanese Kafta are juicy, herb-infused patties made from ground beef or lamb combined with fresh parsley, aromatic spices, and grated onion. Perfectly grilled or pan-seared to golden perfection, these flavorful patties are delicious served with pita bread or rice and complemented by tangy lemon and creamy sauces like tahini or yogurt.
Ingredients
Meat and Herbs
- 1 lb Ground Beef or Lamb (can mix both for richer flavor or substitute with lean ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 medium Grated Onion (drained well to prevent excess moisture)
- 1 cup Chopped Parsley (cilantro can be used as a substitute)
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic (adjust quantity based on preference or use garlic powder)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1 tsp Salt (essential for flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Pepper (adjust to preference)
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne (optional for added heat)
Cooking and Serving
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for grilling or pan-searing)
- 1 medium Lemon (for added brightness)
- 4 pieces Pita or Rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather and prepare all ingredients including grating the onion and chopping the parsley to be ready for mixing.
- Mixing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, cumin, allspice, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Mix thoroughly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is sticky and well combined.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into logs or patties about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Arrange them neatly on a platter, ready for cooking.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C) or heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
- Cook Kafta: Grill or pan-sear the patties for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully to achieve even browning and an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Let the kafta rest for a minute after cooking. Serve with warm pita bread or rice, and drizzle with lemon juice and optionally tahini or yogurt sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Drain the grated onion thoroughly to prevent excess moisture which can affect the texture of the patties.
- Substitute cilantro for parsley if preferred, or mix both for a unique flavor.
- Adjust garlic and cayenne levels according to taste preference.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure kafta reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Serve kafta with fresh lemon wedges, pita bread, rice, and optional sauces like tahini or yogurt to enhance the meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Keywords: Lebanese Kafta, Kafta recipe, herb patties, ground beef patties, grilled Kafta, Middle Eastern meat patties, parsley kafta, allspice kafta
