Kafta kebab, also known as kofta or shish kafta, is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground meat like beef or lamb mixed with finely chopped onions, parsley, garlic, and spices such as cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. "Shish" means skewer in Arabic, so shish kafta refers to the meat mixture molded onto skewers and grilled. It's juicy, flavorful, and versatile—serve it with pita bread, yogurt sauce, or tabbouleh salad. To prepare at home, mix 1 lb ground meat with 1/2 cup chopped parsley, 1 small onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1 tsp each cumin and coriander, and salt to taste. Shape into logs around soaked wooden skewers, then grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through (internal temp 160°F). This yields 4 servings and takes about 30 minutes total. (98 words)

Are kafta kebabs gluten-free?

Yes, traditional kafta kebabs are naturally gluten-free because they use no flour, breadcrumbs, or wheat-based binders. The recipe relies on fresh ingredients like ground beef or lamb, onions, parsley, garlic, and spices, which bind together during mixing and grilling. Always check labels on store-bought spices or pre-ground meat for hidden gluten additives. For safe home prep: Use 100% lean ground beef, fresh herbs, and gluten-free certified spices. Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Grill or bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Pair with gluten-free sides like rice, grilled veggies, or hummus. This keeps the dish under 5g carbs per serving, perfect for celiac diets. Double-check cross-contamination if using shared grills. (112 words)

Are kafta kebabs healthy?

Kafta kebabs can be a healthy choice when made with lean ground beef (90% lean or higher), providing about 25g protein per 4-oz serving, plus iron (15% DV), zinc, and B vitamins like B12 for energy and red blood cell production. Fat content stays low at 10-15g per serving with lean meat, and calories hover around 250 without heavy sauces. Skip extra oil by grilling instead of frying. Actionable tip: Choose grass-fed beef for more omega-3s, add extra veggies like grated zucchini to the mix for moisture and fiber (boosts to 3g fiber/serving). Bake on a rack for even less fat drainage. Balance with a salad for a full meal under 500 calories. Consult a doctor for personalized nutrition advice. (118 words)

Are kafta kebabs low carb?

Yes, kafta kebabs are low carb, with roughly 2-4g net carbs per serving from onions and parsley alone—no grains or starches needed. This fits keto (under 5g carbs), Atkins, or low-carb plans perfectly. Use this base recipe: 1 lb 90% lean ground beef, 1/4 cup onion (2g carbs), 1/2 cup parsley (

How do you grill kafta kebabs?

Grilling kafta kebabs gives them smoky flavor and perfect char. Start with chilled meat mixture (firmer for skewering). Prep: Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F), oil grates lightly. Skewer 2-3 oz portions into 4-inch logs using soaked bamboo or metal skewers. Grill 10-12 minutes total: 4 minutes per side, turning twice for even cooking. Check internal temp reaches 160°F for beef. Rest 2 minutes before serving. Tips for success: Don't press down on patties—keeps juices in. Brush with olive oil halfway for crisp exterior. Indoor option: Broil 6 inches from heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping once. Serve with tzatziki, lemon wedges, and chopped tomatoes. Makes juicy results every time; scale up for parties. (108 words)

Kafta Kebabs Recipe: Juicy Grilled Middle Eastern Skewers

Name: Kafta Kebabs
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: – 600 grams lean ground beef Base protein for juicy kafta kebabs; – 1 medium yellow onion, quartered Adds sweetness and moisture to the mix; – 1 cup fresh parsley, washed and dried Fresh herb flavor and aroma; – 1 teaspoon salt Brings out the meat and spice flavors; – 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds mild heat and depth; – 1/4 teaspoon seven spice blend Traditional Middle Eastern seasoning (warm, aromatic notes); – 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) Adds gentle heat for grilled Middle Eastern skewers

Ingredients

– 600 grams lean ground beef Base protein for juicy kafta kebabs

– 1 medium yellow onion, quartered Adds sweetness and moisture to the mix

– 1 cup fresh parsley, washed and dried Fresh herb flavor and aroma

– 1 teaspoon salt Brings out the meat and spice flavors

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds mild heat and depth

– 1/4 teaspoon seven spice blend Traditional Middle Eastern seasoning (warm, aromatic notes)

– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) Adds gentle heat for grilled Middle Eastern skewers

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1-First Step: Soak wooden skewers (if using). Soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to help prevent burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip soaking.

2-Second Step: Chop onion and parsley finely. Finely chop the quartered onion and parsley in a food processor. A fine chop helps the mixture hold together and gives more even flavor in every bite.

3-Third Step: Mix the beef with herbs and spices. In a large bowl, combine the 600 grams lean ground beef, chopped onions and parsley, and all spices. Mix thoroughly by hand until the seasoning is evenly distributed.

4-Fourth Step: Shape the kafta. Shape the mixture around skewers into 1- to 1 1/2-inch thick kebabs. Or form 1-inch thick patties without skewers if you prefer a burger-like shape or want an easier bake.

5-Final Step: Cook until just done and juicy. Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high. If using a gas grill, oil the grates lightly. Grill skewers for 4 minutes per side until cooked but juicy. For oven-baking: bake the patties at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes, checking thicker ones for doneness. Bake time can vary based on patty thickness.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

🍖 Choose ground beef with some fat content for juicier, more flavorful kebabs.
🧨 Soak wooden skewers in water beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.
🌿 Seven spice blend adds authentic Middle Eastern flavor; substitute with allspice if unavailable.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Skewer Soak: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilled
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, High-Protein

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 kebabs
Calories: 178 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 554mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 74mg