Beef Kafta Kebabs are juicy and flavorful skewers made with ground beef mixed with herbs and spices. They grill up beautifully and are perfect for summer barbecues!
Trust me, once you taste these kebabs, you’ll want to make them every week. I love serving them with a fresh salad—it’s a hearty and tasty meal that’s also fun to eat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead, but those will be leaner, so they may need a bit of oil added in.
Onion: A small onion, finely grated, adds sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have fresh onion, use 1 teaspoon of onion powder as an alternative.
Herbs (Parsley & Mint): Both add freshness. If mint isn’t available, feel free to substitute with basil or omit it entirely. Dried herbs can work too; about 1 tablespoon of dried mint can replace fresh mint.
Spices: Cumin, coriander, and cinnamon are key for flavoring. If you’re out of ground coriander, you can use an equal amount of additional cumin or try ground fennel for a different twist.
Salt & Pepper: Always adjust according to taste. For a deeper flavor, some like to add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
How Do You Keep Kebabs from Falling Apart on the Grill?
The trick to keeping your Beef Kafta Kebabs intact is all in the mixing and molding. Make sure to blend the ingredients really well to help them bind together. Here’s how:
- Mix everything thoroughly in a bowl—this helps distribute moisture and flavor evenly.
- When shaping the meat around the skewer, press firmly. This ensures it holds together as it cooks.
- Oiling the grill grates is crucial! It prevents sticking, allowing your kebabs to turn easily.
- Let them rest briefly after grilling—this helps the juices set and keeps them juicy.
How to Make Beef Kafta Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 12 minutes to grill the kebabs. Overall, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious Beef Kafta Kebabs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and add the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until all the ingredients are well blended. Don’t rush this part; it’s important to ensure every bite is flavorful!
2. Shape the Kebabs:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into equal portions, about the size of a small egg. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer, pressing firmly to make sure it sticks well. Aim for an even shape, so they cook uniformly!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, remember to lightly oil the grates to help prevent the kebabs from sticking. This step can make a big difference!
4. Brush with Olive Oil:
Before you place the kebabs on the grill, take a brush and coat them with olive oil on all sides. This will add flavor and help achieve that perfect grilled look!
5. Grill the Kebabs:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the kebabs on the hot grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly and are cooked through. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F, so go ahead and check that with a meat thermometer if you have one!
6. Let Them Rest:
After removing the kebabs from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute, making your kebabs more flavorful and juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, it’s time to enjoy your Beef Kafta Kebabs! Serve them over a bed of hummus and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion rings, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh parsley. For a complete meal, offer some pita bread on the side. Dig in and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in kafta kebabs. Just note that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a little extra minced onion to keep them moist.
How Should I Soak Wooden Skewers Properly?
To prevent wooden skewers from burning on the grill, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This helps to create a protective barrier, allowing them to withstand the heat better while grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
Can I Make the Meat Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, shape and grill as directed!
