KAFTA (GRILLED GROUND MEAT PATTIES)
Kafta is a classic Middle Eastern dish made from ground meat mixed with onions, fresh herbs and warming spices, then shaped into patties or logs and grilled to perfection. This single-serving version delivers the bold, savoury essence of traditional kafta in a simple and manageable portion. Made with either beef or lamb, salt, pepper, onions, parsley, cumin and allspice. These patties are aromatic, juicy and deeply satisfying. Perfect for grilling, pan-frying or air frying, kafta makes an excellent protein-packed entrée for lunch or dinner. Serve it with a fresh salad tucked in pita or rice and tahini for a complete meal. The Kafta (Grilled Ground Meat Patties) is quick to prepare, versatile and freezer-friendly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed in wraps or bowls, this kafta recipe is a compact powerhouse of flavour.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Middle Eastern
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Pan-Fry, Barbecue / Grill, Air Fryer, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Backyard BBQ, Casual Dinner, Ramadan, Family Reunion, Date Night, Summer, Fourth of July, Picnic
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Keto, High Protein, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Quick & Easy, Paleo, Whole30, Wheat/Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Hamburger
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Kafta (Grilled Ground Meat Patties):
- ¼ cup ground beef or lamb
- ½ tablespoon chopped parsley
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon onion, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 147.3 kcal
- Fat: 11.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0.7 g
- Cholesterol: 39.8 mg
- Sodium: 141.3 mg
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fibre: 0.3 g
- Sugars: 0.1 g
- Protein: 9.8 g
- Vitamin D: 0.1 mg
- Calcium: 22 mg
- Iron: 1.6 mg
- Potassium: 180.9 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Kafta (Grilled Ground Meat Patties):
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the ground meat with grated onion, parsley, allspice, cumin, salt and pepper until well blended.
- Shape the Patties: Form the mixture into a small patty or oval-shaped log, pressing it tightly to hold it together during cooking.
- Preheat the Grill or Pan: If using a grill, preheat to medium flame and oil the grates lightly. For stovetop or air fryer, heat a non-stick pan or preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the Kafta
- Grill: Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked.
- Pan-Fry: Sear in a pan with a drizzle of oil over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer: Cook for 6–7 minutes, flipping once, until cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Serve Hot: Serve the kafta warm with your choice of accompaniments like hummus, pickles, flatbread or salad.
PREP TIME
8 minutes
COOKING TIME
7 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Kafta (Grilled Ground Meat Patties):
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix until combined to keep the meat tender, not rigid.
- Grate onion Finely: This helps to bind the meat and adds moisture without large chunks.
- Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate the shaped kafta for 10 minutes to help it hold shape.
- Use Lamb for Richer Flavour: Lamb adds a slightly gamier, traditional flavour that is perfect for kafta.
- Flat Skewers: If making multiple servings, use flat skewers to prevent kafta from spinning on the grill.
VARIATIONS
- Add Garlic: A small amount of minced garlic adds depth to the flavour profile.
- Spice it Up: Mix in cayenne, paprika or chilli flakes for some heat.
- Herb Blend: Try adding mint or coriander for a fresh herbaceous twist.
- Cheese-Stuffed: For a fusion twist, stuff with a small cube of halloumi or feta before grilling.
- Low Fat Option: Use lean ground beef or turkey and adjust spices to boost flavour.
- Wrap It Up: Serve kafta wrapped in lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas for a keto-friendly wrap.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store cooked kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Freezing: Raw or cooked kafta can be frozen. Wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Meal Prep Tip: Make a batch and freeze uncooked patties, then thaw overnight before grilling or frying.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with tahini sauce, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush or stuffed grape leaves for a full mezze platter.