Description
Authentic Middle Eastern beef kebabs that are quick to prepare, incredibly juicy, and packed with fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs (900g) Ground Beef (15-20% fat content)
- 1 large Yellow Onion, finely minced
- 1 cup Fresh Parsley, packed and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Fresh Mint, packed and finely chopped (optional)
- 3–4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional)
- 1/4 tsp Baking Soda
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- Wooden or Metal Skewers
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using.
- Finely mince the onion, garlic, parsley, and mint. Avoid turning them into a paste.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, minced onion, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, baking soda, and vegetable oil.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly by hand or with a mixer for 2-3 minutes until the meat becomes sticky and cohesive.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours) to firm up the fat and allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
- Shape the meat mixture into long, thin logs around the skewers, pressing firmly to remove air pockets. Yield approximately 8-10 kebabs.
- Grill kebabs for 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Keep the meat mixture cold to ensure juicy kebabs. Do not overcrowd the grill to allow for proper charring. If the meat is too sticky to handle, wet your hands with cold water. Baking soda helps tenderize the meat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 kebabs per servi
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
Keywords: beef kafta, grilled kebabs, middle eastern recipe, summer grilling, easy dinner, gluten-free