Kafta is a traditional Lebanese dish that is simple to make and delicious to eat. It is a favorite of many Middle Eastern families and is often served during special occasions. The dish is made up of ground beef or lamb mixed with spices and shaped into small balls or patties. The meat is then grilled or baked and served with vegetables, salads, and sauces. This recipe is perfect for those who want to try making this dish at home.
Ingredients
To make the Kafta, you will need the following ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or lamb
1 onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup parsley leaves, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the delicious Kafta:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, parsley, minced garlic, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Knead the mixture well with your hands until it becomes smooth and well combined.
Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a small ball or a flat patty.
Repeat the process with the remaining mixture until all the meat is used.
Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
Brush the meatballs or patties with olive oil.
Grill or cook the Kafta for 4-5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Serve hot with your choice of vegetables, salads, and sauces.
Nutrition
This Kafta recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here is the nutritional information per serving:
Calories: 290
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 21 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 310 mg
Health Benefits of Kafta
Kafta is a protein-rich dish that is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. It is an excellent source of essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The dish is also low in sugar and sodium, making it a healthy choice for people with diabetes and high blood pressure. The spices used in the recipe, such as allspice and cinnamon, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Serving Suggestions
Kafta is best served hot with a side of hummus, pita bread, and a salad of your choice. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. If you want to add more flavor to your Kafta, you can try making a tahini sauce or a yogurt sauce to drizzle over the meatballs or patties.
Conclusion
Kafta is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you serve it with vegetables, salads, or sauces, Kafta is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not try making it at home today and experience the authentic taste of Lebanon?
