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Kafta Kebabs

Juicy and flavorful grilled beef kebabs made with ground beef, fresh parsley, onion, and Middle Eastern spices. Ready in 25 minutes active time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Soaking Time (passive) 30 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Lebanese, Middle Eastern
Calories: 178
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.33 pounds ground beef 80-85% lean (600 grams)
  • 1 medium yellow onion quartered
  • 1 cup fresh parsley washed and patted dry
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon seven spice pre-mixed spice blend
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne adjust to taste
  • 8-10 wooden or metal skewers soak wooden skewers 30 minutes if using

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Grill (gas or charcoal) or oven
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • Instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
  2. In the bowl of your food processor, add quartered onion and fresh parsley. Pulse in 1-second bursts 8-10 times total until finely chopped but not pureed.
  3. To a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, finely chopped parsley and onion mixture, and all of the spices. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly for 2-3 minutes until cohesive and slightly sticky.
  4. To form the kebabs, take about ⅓ cup of the mixture and mold it firmly around the skewer. The meat should be about 1 to 1½ inches thick and 5-6 inches long. Press firmly so meat adheres. Makes 8-10 kebabs total.
  5. Prepare your grill by preheating to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Place skewers on the grill. Cook one side for 4-5 minutes without moving, then flip and cook another 4-5 minutes until meat reaches 160°F internal temperature. Kebabs should be golden-brown with char marks.
  7. Remove from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving immediately.

Notes

For oven method: Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. Can also shape into patties instead of using skewers. Use ground beef with 15-20% fat content (80-85% lean) for juiciest results. Make ahead: Shape kebabs and refrigerate up to 4 hours before grilling.