Authentic Lebanese Beef Kafta

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Channel: Feelgoodfoodie
Host: Feelgoodfoodie
Published: Aug 17, 2025
Views: 131.8k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 15 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 8

Overview

The Authentic Lebanese Beef Kafta recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Ground beef is combined with finely chopped parsley and spices, creating a mixture that is both juicy and aromatic. The use of lean beef ensures that the kafta remains tender and flavorful, making it a perfect choice for grilling during the summer months.

One of the standout features of this recipe is the versatility of the kafta. It can be shaped into patties or skewered for grilling, allowing for a fun and interactive cooking experience. The addition of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and coriander adds depth to the flavor profile, making each bite a burst of taste.

Serving the kafta with Lebanese rice, which is often enhanced with vermicelli, creates a satisfying meal that is sure to impress family and friends. The rice absorbs the flavors of the kafta, making it a perfect accompaniment. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a meal at home, this kafta recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Overall, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of flavors and textures is truly a celebration of Lebanese cuisine, and I can’t wait for you to try it yourself!

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:36

Chop half a cup of parsley in a food processor.

00:44

Tip: Make sure to dry parsley a day before to prevent wilting.

2
01:00

Trim ends of a small onion and cut it in half.

3
01:09

Process the onion in the food processor for 30 seconds.

01:14

Tip: Chop onions and parsley by hand if you don't have a food processor.

01:22

Tip: Using a food processor makes mixing easier.

4
01:24

Transfer parsley back to the food processor and add one pound of ground beef.

5
01:47

Add two teaspoons of seven spice, half a teaspoon each of cumin, cinnamon, and coriander, and season with salt and pepper.

02:11

Tip: Avoid over mixing the meat mixture to prevent tough meat.

6
02:17

Pulse the mixture until combined, being careful not to over mix.

7
02:28

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and form it into oblong shapes.

8
03:04

Place the kefta on a grill pan to cook.

9
03:13

Fry vermicelli until browned.

03:14

Tip: Fry vermicelli until browned for better flavor.

10
03:18

Add rinsed and drained basmati rice to the pan.

11
03:21

Add half a teaspoon of salt and toast the rice with the vermicelli.

12
03:26

Add four cups of water for two cups of rice.

03:30

Tip: Rinse and drain basmati rice before cooking.

13
03:35

Cook the rice for 15 minutes.

03:35

Tip: Cook rice for 15 minutes for best results.

14
03:39

Plate the cooked kefta on top of the rice.

15
04:12

Garnish the dish with parsley.

04:12

Tip: Garnish with parsley for a fresh touch.

04:20

Tip: You can bake kafta in the oven for a juicy outcome.

Ingredients

Serves: 8
Onion1 small
Cumin0.5 tsp
Cinnamon0.5 tsp
Coriander0.5 tsp
Salt0.5 tsp
Black Pepper0.25 tsp
Vermicelli1 cup
Basmati Rice2 cups

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
30
per serving
Carbs
40
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Kefta is a traditional Lebanese dish made from ground meat, often mixed with spices and herbs.
  • Using lean ground beef helps keep the kafta juicy without the need for added eggs.
  • Kefta can be shaped into oblong patties or skewered for grilling.
  • Lebanese rice is often cooked with vermicelli for added flavor and texture.