Kefta

Transform your dinner table with the bold and aromatic flavors of Kefta, a traditional Middle Eastern dish that's bursting with herbs and spices. This recipe combines succulent ground beef or lamb with finely diced onion, fresh parsley, and mint, then layers on an irresistible blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and smoked paprika for a perfectly spiced bite. Whether shaped into oval patties or skewered, these juicy morsels are quick to make, requiring just 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time. Kefta can be grilled, pan-fried, or cooked over a skillet, making it versatile for any kitchen setup. Serve these savory delights with warm pita bread, creamy hummus, and a crisp salad for a complete meal that transports you straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this recipe serves 4 and will quickly become a family favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground beef or lamb
• 1 medium, finely diced onion
• 0.5 cup, chopped fresh parsley
• 0.25 cup, chopped fresh mint
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with finely diced onion, fresh parsley, and fresh mint. Mix until well combined.

Step 2

Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture.

Step 3

Using your hands, mix the spices and herbs thoroughly into the meat, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4

Once combined, divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into an oval patty or form around skewers for easier grilling.

Step 5

Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Cook the kefta for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness and are nicely browned.

Step 7

Remove the kefta from the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Step 8

Serve the kefta hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs, with sides like warm pita bread, hummus, and a salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(734.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1621.8

Total Fat 129.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 44.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 400mg	0%
Sodium 2766.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 25.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 6.4g	0%
Total Sugars 7.8g
Protein 89.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 250.5mg	0%
Iron 18.6mg	0%
Potassium 2044.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 71.7%

Protein: 22.0%

Carbs: 6.3%