Description
Lebanese Kafta is a quick and flavorful Middle Eastern classic made with ground beef or lamb, fresh parsley, garlic, and warm spices. These juicy patties are grilled or pan-seared to perfection and served with pita, rice, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a simple yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients
For the Kafta Patties:
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1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
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1 medium onion, grated and well drained
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1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp allspice
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
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1 medium lemon (for serving)
For Serving:
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4 pieces pita bread or cooked rice
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, grated and drained onion, parsley, garlic, cumin, allspice, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
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Mix thoroughly for 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly sticky.
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Shape into logs or patties about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick.
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Preheat grill to medium-high (375°F / 190°C) OR heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Grill or pan-sear kafta for 4–5 minutes per side, until browned and internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
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Let rest for 1–2 minutes before serving.
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Serve with pita or rice and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Notes
Drain the grated onion well to prevent excess moisture.
For extra flavor, use a mix of beef and lamb.
If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before shaping.
Do not overcook, as kafta can dry out quickly.
Serve with tahini or yogurt sauce for added richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Lebanese / Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2 patties)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg