Kafta Food Recipe

Last night, my kids and I had an absolute blast making kafta for dinner. We rolled up the juicy, flavorful kafta in some fresh pita bread, topped it with all the delicious fixings, and added a big, satisfying dollop of hummus. It was sooo good. Kafta is one of those dishes that makes you feel like a kitchen superstar, even if it’s super easy to whip up.

Kafta is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from seasoned ground meat, typically beef or lamb. It can be shaped into meatballs, patties, or skewers and is often grilled, baked, or pan fried. The beauty of kafta lies in its versatility, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.

Method

Preparing the Mixture

To start, gather all your ingredients and tools in one place. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely shredded or chopped onion, freshly chopped parsley, the aromatic 7 spices, a hint of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything thoroughly. Be gentle but firm to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the meat, which can make it tough.

Shaping the Kafta

Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape the kafta. You can form the mixture into small patties if you prefer a burger-like style or roll it into meatballs for a bite-sized version. If you’re planning to grill, shape the mixture around skewers for easy handling and that traditional grilled kafta look. Make sure each piece is evenly sized for consistent cooking.

Cooking the Kafta

If you’re grilling the kafta, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers or patties on the hot grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. If baking, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking tray and arrange the patties or skewers in a single layer. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve a nice, even browning. Check that the internal temperature has reached at least 71°C (160°F) to ensure the meat is cooked through.

Serving

Once the kafta is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a minute. Serve it hot, wrapped in a soft, fluffy pita bread, and add your favorite toppings like hummus, chopped salad, pickles, and a drizzle of tahini or garlic sauce. Alternatively, pair it with rice and roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Necessary Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Grater or food processor (for the onion)
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring spoons
• Skewers (if grilling)
• Baking tray or grill pan

Serving Suggestions

Kafta is perfect in a sandwich wrapped with pita bread, hummus, and fresh veggies. You can also serve it as a main dish with rice, grilled veggies, or roasted potatoes. A side of garlic sauce or tzatziki takes the flavor to the next level.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the word “kafta” comes from the Arabic word for ground meat? In different cultures, it goes by various names, like “kofta” in South Asia and “kefta” in Morocco.

Conclusion

Kafta is one of those dishes that never disappoints. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family meals. Whether you’re grilling it outdoors or baking it in the oven, the aroma alone will have everyone gathering around. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out. Enjoy your homemade kafta.