Beef Kafta

This Beef Kafta recipe combines ground beef with aromatic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and 7 spice, creating a flavorful dish perfect for grilling. The mixture is formed into patties or skewers and grilled to perfection, offering a savory, juicy meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or family gatherings, Beef Kafta can be served with various sides like hummus, rice, or grilled vegetables. Easy to make and packed with Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a delicious, hearty meal. Perfect for meal prep or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 1 small yellow onion, quartered
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons 7 spice blend
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

1. Place the parsley in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same food processor bowl, add the quartered onion and pulse until finely chopped. Drain any excess moisture from the onions.
3. Return the chopped parsley to the food processor with the onions. Add the ground beef and all the spices (7 spice, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper). Pulse a few times until the ingredients are well combined into a paste-like mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture into a large bowl. Form the kafta into oval-shaped patties, about 1 inch thick. You can shape them on wooden skewers or without, depending on preference.
5. Preheat a gas grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat. Grease the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
6. Place the kafta on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
7. Serve hot off the grill with your favorite sides.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef kafta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines ground beef with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. The blend of cumin, cinnamon, coriander, and 7 spice creates a unique, savory flavor that will have everyone asking for more. It’s a versatile recipe that can be grilled on an outdoor barbecue or in an indoor grill pan, making it perfect for any occasion.

Tips

• Grill temperature: Make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the kafta on it. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice sear.
• Moisture control: After chopping the onion, drain any excess moisture to prevent the kafta mixture from becoming too wet, which could make it harder to shape.
• Forming kafta: If you prefer, you can shape the kafta on skewers for a more traditional presentation, or you can form them into patties for easier handling.

Variations and Substitutions

• Ground meat options: While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute ground lamb, chicken, or turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Spice variations: If you don’t have 7 spice, you can make your own by combining black pepper, allspice, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, cloves, and nutmeg. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
• Add-ins: You can mix in finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make the kafta ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the kafta mixture a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.

Can I cook kafta on a stovetop? Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook the kafta in a hot skillet or grill pan on the stovetop. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat until they’re browned and cooked through.

How can I check for doneness? The best way to ensure the kafta is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.

Serving

Beef kafta can be served with a variety of sides, such as hummus, tabbouleh, grilled vegetables, or pita bread. Pair it with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Suggestions

For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle the kafta with a tangy yogurt sauce or tahini dressing. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables or olives for added texture and flavor.