Name: Kafta Kebabs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or lamb; 1 small onion, finely grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp olive oil; Wooden or metal skewers

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Kafta Kebabs are a beloved Middle Eastern classic, made with ground beef or lamb seasoned with aromatic herbs and warming spices. Grilled to perfection on skewers, these juicy, flavorful kebabs are a staple at Eid celebrations, family feasts, and mezze platters. Whether served in warm pita, over rice, or with vibrant salads, they offer a beautifully spiced and deeply satisfying taste of Levantine tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kafta Kebabs are as easy to make as they are flavorful. Using common spices and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers a deeply seasoned and juicy result without the need for marinades or long resting times. The mixture can be prepared in advance, shaped onto skewers, and quickly grilled, making it ideal for entertaining or festive gatherings like Eid. These kebabs also adapt well to both outdoor grills and indoor grill pans.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef or lamb
1 small onion, finely grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, and all spices.
Add the olive oil and mix everything thoroughly using your hands until the mixture is cohesive and holds together well.
Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions. Shape each one around a skewer, forming it into a long, sausage-like kebab.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the kebabs for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and fully cooked through.
Serve hot with warm pita bread, fresh salad, rice, and a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce or tahini.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 290 kcal

Variations

Use different herbs: Substitute cilantro for parsley, or add dill for a more Mediterranean twist.
Add bulgur: For texture, mix in 2 tbsp of soaked fine bulgur.
Spicy kafta: Increase cayenne or add finely chopped chili for extra heat.
Oven-baked version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Cheese-stuffed: Wrap the meat around a piece of feta or mozzarella before shaping on skewers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze raw shaped kebabs on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook directly from frozen or thaw before grilling.
Reheating: Reheat in a covered skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make Kafta Kebabs without skewers?

Yes. Simply shape the meat mixture into patties or small logs and cook them in a skillet or bake them in the oven.

Is it better to use beef or lamb?

Both work well. Lamb offers a more traditional and rich flavor, while beef is leaner and milder.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried parsley and mint in a pinch, though fresh herbs give the best aroma and taste.

How do I prevent the kebabs from falling apart?

Mix the meat well until sticky and cohesive. Grated onion and garlic help bind the mixture, as does a short rest before grilling.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, the mixture can be made and shaped up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to grill.

What’s the best side dish to serve with kafta?

They pair beautifully with hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, rice pilaf, or simple cucumber yogurt sauce.

Can I make them spicier?

Certainly. Adjust the cayenne to your heat preference or add a chopped green chili to the mix.

How do I keep them moist?

Use meat with a little fat content (at least 15–20%) and avoid overcooking. Olive oil also helps lock in moisture.

Can I grill them indoors?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan works well. Just ensure proper ventilation and oil the grates lightly.

Are Kafta Kebabs gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Avoid adding fillers like breadcrumbs if gluten is a concern.

Conclusion

Kafta Kebabs are a timeless Middle Eastern favorite that brings together the essence of fresh herbs and warm spices in every bite. Quick to prepare, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect for grilling, they are a delicious choice for Eid festivities or any time you’re craving bold, authentic cuisine. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.

Kafta Kebabs

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Kafta Kebabs are flavorful Middle Eastern skewers made with ground beef or lamb mixed with herbs and warm spices, grilled until juicy and aromatic—perfect for Eid feasts, mezze platters, or wrapped in pita with tahini sauce.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Diet: Halal

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Use your hands to mix thoroughly until well combined and the mixture holds together.
Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a skewer into a long sausage-like form.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
Grill kebabs for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
Serve hot with warm pita, fresh salad, or rice, and a side of garlic sauce or tahini.