Description
Succulent ground beef kebabs from Lebanon blend aromatic spices with grilled meat perfection. Served with warm pita and tangy tzatziki, you’ll savor authentic Middle Eastern flavors in each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Metal skewers
- Wooden skewers (if using, soak in water before grilling)
Instructions
- Meat Preparation: Blend ground beef with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Drizzle olive oil and gently fold ingredients to maintain meat’s delicate texture without overworking.
- Skewering: Divide seasoned meat into uniform portions, molding each into elongated cylinders around skewers. Apply light pressure to secure meat without compressing densely.
- Grill Setup: Heat outdoor or indoor grill to medium-high, creating a surface for optimal charring. Lightly oil grates to prevent sticking and enhance grill marks.
- Cooking Process: Place kebabs on heated grill, rotating periodically to develop even caramelization and golden-brown coloration. Ensure uniform heat distribution and consistent cooking.
- Temperature Check: Grill until internal temperature reaches 160°F, typically requiring 10-12 minutes. This guarantees safe consumption while maintaining succulent texture.
- Serving Presentation: Rest kebabs briefly to redistribute juices, then plate with Mediterranean accompaniments like tzatziki, hummus, flatbread, or crisp salad for a complete culinary experience.
Notes
- Meat Mixing Technique: Handle ground beef gently to keep the texture tender and prevent dense, tough kebabs. Fold ingredients lightly to maintain a light, airy consistency.
- Skewering Pro Tip: Shape meat evenly around skewers with light pressure, ensuring uniform cooking and preventing meat from falling off during grilling.
- Temperature Control: Cook kebabs to exactly 160°F for food safety while maintaining juiciness. Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness and avoid overcooking.
- Versatility Adaptation: Swap ground beef with ground lamb, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences. Adjust spice levels to suit different taste profiles and nutritional needs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg