Description
Enjoy the bold flavors of the Middle East with this Easy Lebanese Beef Kafta recipe! Juicy, spiced beef skewers are grilled to perfection and served with a creamy yogurt sauce. Ready in just 23 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick dinner or a flavorful gathering. Serve with rice, salad, or pita for a complete meal!
Ingredients
For the Kafta
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb, chicken, turkey)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely minced
- 2 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp allspice
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- Bamboo or metal skewers
For the Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ lemon, juiced and zested
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
For Serving (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
- Mini cucumbers, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- White or brown rice, cooked
- Pita bread
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 2: Make the Kafta Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, onion, parsley, coriander, cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Kafta
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions.
- Shape each portion around a skewer into a 3–4 inch long log.
Step 4: Preheat & Grill
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (or use a skillet).
- Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Make the Yogurt Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice & zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve kafta with yogurt sauce, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges.
- For a bowl-style meal, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, and tomatoes with olive oil, then serve with rice and kafta skewers.
- Optionally, wrap in pita bread for a delicious sandwich.
Notes
⭐ Alternative Proteins: Swap beef for lamb, chicken, or turkey.
⭐ Extra Herbs: Add fresh mint or cilantro for more flavor.
⭐ Spice Adjustments: Increase cumin or allspice for deeper warmth.
⭐ Serving Ideas: Wrap in pita or serve over greens for a lighter option.
⭐ Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese, Middle Eastern
Keywords: Lebanese beef kafta, grilled kafta skewers, easy kafta recipe, Middle Eastern beef kebabs, kafta with yogurt sauce