These Classic Beef Kafta Kabobs are tasty and fun! Made with ground beef mixed with spices and herbs, they’re perfect for grilling. Just shape the meat onto skewers and cook until juicy!
I love serving these with fresh veggies and some warm pita. Honestly, what’s better than a juicy kabob? They’re always a hit at cookouts. Make extra—you’ll want to snack on them! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (90/10) is ideal for juicy kabobs. If you’re looking for a substitute, consider ground lamb or turkey for a twist. For a healthier option, ground chicken can work, but may require extra spices to enhance flavor.
Onion: Grated onion adds moisture and sweetness. If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder in a pinch – about 1 tablespoon can suffice. However, fresh is always best for taste!
Parsley: Fresh parsley gives a vibrant flavor and bright color. If you don’t have it, try fresh cilantro for a different herbaceous touch, or you can use dried parsley but reduce the quantity as it’s more concentrated.
Spices: Cumin, oregano, sumac, and cinnamon contribute to the unique flavor of Kafta. If you can’t find sumac, a squeeze of lemon can offer a similar tang. For those who prefer milder flavors, use less cumin and cinnamon.
How Do You Shape Kabobs for Even Cooking?
Shaping the kabobs correctly is key for even cooking and delicious results. Here’s how you can do it effectively:
- Take a handful of the meat mixture and form it into a long oval shape around the skewer. Press firmly to ensure it sticks but don’t compress too much.
- Make sure that the meat mixture is evenly packed along the skewer, which helps it cook evenly and prevents it from falling apart during grilling.
- Add a bit of extra parsley or onions to the outside for a fresh, flavorful crust when grilling.
Also, remember to soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps them from burning and helps with clean-up later!
How to Make Classic Beef Kafta Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10 is best)
- 1 medium onion, grated
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp sumac
- 1/3 tsp cinnamon
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, plus an additional 30 minutes if you’re using wooden skewers that need soaking. In total, you can enjoy these delicious kabobs in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, sea salt, cumin, oregano, sumac, and cinnamon. Use your hands to mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. It should feel well combined and slightly sticky.
2. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in a bowl of water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning while grilling. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step!
3. Shape the Kabobs:
Take a handful of the meat mixture and form it around each skewer, shaping it into long oval cylinders. Make sure the meat is tightly packed along the skewer to help it hold its shape while cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill:
While your skewers are shaping up, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, lightly grease the grill grates with a bit of oil to prevent the kabobs from sticking.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice brown color. The kabobs should be cooked through when they feel firm to the touch.
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve them warm with your favorite dips, fresh salads, or flatbreads. Enjoy your delicious Beef Kafta Kabobs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be mindful that the cook time may vary slightly, and these meats can be a bit drier, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an egg to the mixture to help retain moisture.
How Can I Make These Kabobs Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the meat mixture and form the kabobs a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply remove them from the fridge and grill as directed. This also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick fix, ensuring they’re heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Kabobs?
Definitely! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini make great additions. Just make sure the vegetables are cut to a similar size and thickness for even cooking. You can alternate meat and veggies on the skewers for a colorful and tasty presentation!
