Kafta Kabob Recipe

Entrees

1. 1

   Prepare the kafta mixture

   In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, and ground allspice. Season with salt and black pepper. Add breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and olive oil. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined; avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to help the mixture bind.

2. 2

   Shape onto skewers

   Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. With wet hands, divide the mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each around a soaked skewer, forming a long sausage-like kebab with even thickness.

3. 3

   Grill or broil the kebabs

   Oil the grill grates lightly. Grill the kafta kebabs for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temperature ~160°F / 71°C). If using an oven broiler, place on a rack and broil 4-5 minutes per side, watching closely.

4. 4

   Make yogurt sauce

   In a small bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, 1 teaspoon minced garlic for yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice for yogurt, and salt to taste. Chill for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld.

5. 5

   Serve

   Let kebabs rest for 2 minutes, then remove from skewers onto plates. Serve with the yogurt sauce, lemon wedges, warm flatbread or rice, and a simple cucumber-tan salad if desired.