What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Lebanese Kafta with Yogurt Sauce brings a taste of the Middle East right to your kitchen, combining rich flavors with a touch of creamy freshness. You’ll love how simple it is to make, using everyday ingredients that come together beautifully. The juicy, spiced kafta pairs perfectly with the tangy, cool yogurt sauce, creating a balance that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that works for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, always leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe
Lebanese Kafta with Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines spiced ground meat with a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. This traditional recipe is perfect for a hearty meal, offering a balance of rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
For the Kafta:
- 500g ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into small, oval-shaped patties or skewer them onto wooden sticks.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the kafta for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- For the yogurt sauce, mix the yogurt, minced garlic, mint, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Serve the kafta hot, accompanied by the yogurt sauce and your choice of sides like rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, use lean ground meat or substitute with ground chicken.
- Let the kafta rest for 10 minutes after cooking to retain juiciness.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: ~350 per serving
Cuisine: Lebanese
Equipment
To prepare Lebanese Kafta with Yogurt Sauce, gather the necessary kitchen tools for efficient cooking. Having the right equipment guarantees a smooth preparation process.
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Skewers or kebab sticks
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or fork
- Serving platter
Nutrition
This Lebanese Kafta with Yogurt Sauce is a nutritious dish, rich in protein and essential vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Calcium | 200mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing Lebanese kafta with warm pita bread and a fresh tabbouleh salad for a complete meal. A chilled glass of mint lemonade or a light red wine complements the flavors perfectly. Don’t forget a side of hummus or baba ghanoush for extra dipping fun!
Side Dishes
When I’m serving Lebanese kafta, I love pairing it with sides that balance its rich, savory flavors. A crisp fattoush salad adds freshness, while garlicky hummus and warm pita make it hearty. Roasted veggies, like eggplant or zucchini, bring sweetness, and fluffy rice pilaf soaks up the yogurt sauce. Don’t forget tangy pickles or olives for a salty bite—they’re perfect alongside!
Beverage Pairings
Since Lebanese kafta’s bold spices and creamy yogurt sauce pack so much flavor, you’ll want drinks that complement without overpowering. I love pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer. For non-alcoholic options, try mint lemonade or a chilled glass of ayran, a yogurt-based drink. These choices balance the richness and spices, making every bite and sip feel just right.
