Lebanese Beef Kafta with Rice Pilaf is a classic Middle Eastern dish that’s full of flavor, aromatic spices, and satisfying textures. Kafta, made from seasoned ground beef mixed with fresh herbs and onions, is shaped into skewers or patties and grilled or baked to perfection. Paired with a fragrant rice pilaf, infused with sautéed onions, garlic, and subtle spices, this dish offers a harmonious balance of flavors and a true taste of Lebanese cuisine..

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together bold Middle Eastern flavors in a simple, approachable way. The kafta is juicy, aromatic, and full of spices, while the rice pilaf adds a comforting, slightly nutty element that complements the beef perfectly. It’s a dish that feels celebratory yet is easy enough for weeknight cooking.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Authentic flavor: Classic Lebanese herbs and spices give it a true Middle Eastern taste.
• Balanced meal: Protein-rich beef and flavorful rice in one plate.
• Versatile: Can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried; rice can be customized with nuts or raisins.
• Impressive yet easy: Looks and tastes like a restaurant dish but is simple to make at home.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: Lebanese / Middle Eastern

Ingredients

For the Kafta:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (preferably 15% fat)
• 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground sumac (optional, for authenticity)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing if grilling or baking)

For the Rice Pilaf:

• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine)
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• ¼ tsp ground allspice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional: yogurt or tahini sauce

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Kafta Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, allspice, cinnamon, and sumac (if using).
2. Mix gently until well combined, avoiding overmixing to keep kafta tender.

Step 2: Shape the Kafta

1. Divide the mixture into 8–10 equal portions.
2. Shape each portion into oval patties or form onto skewers if grilling.
3. Brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Kafta

• Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill kafta for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through.
• Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place kafta on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Pan-Frying: Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook kafta for 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Prepare the Rice Pilaf

1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear; drain.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant.
4. Add rice and stir to coat with butter and spices for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in broth, season with salt, pepper, and allspice.
6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
7. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in toasted pine nuts or almonds if using.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

• Serve kafta atop or alongside the rice pilaf.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Optionally, serve with yogurt or tahini sauce for extra richness.

How to Serve

• Plate rice pilaf first, then lay kafta on top.
• Add lemon wedges on the side.
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and nuts for texture.
• Can be accompanied by a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Tender Kafta: Avoid overmixing; gentle mixing keeps beef light and juicy.
• Spice Balance: Adjust cinnamon and allspice to your preference; these spices add warmth.
• Rice Texture: Rinse rice thoroughly to prevent stickiness.
• Make Ahead: You can shape kafta patties ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Variations

1. Lamb Kafta: Use ground lamb instead of beef for a richer flavor.
2. Herb Variations: Add fresh mint or cilantro for a fragrant twist.
3. Vegetarian Version: Use seasoned chickpea or lentil patties with the same spice blend.
4. Stuffed Kafta: Fill patties with a small cube of cheese or pine nuts for a surprise center.
5. Pilaf Add-ins: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor in the rice.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate cooked kafta and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked kafta patties in a single layer on a tray for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Rice is best made fresh.
• Reheating: Reheat kafta in a skillet or oven; gently warm rice on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet, grill, or baking sheet
• Medium saucepan for rice
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork for fluffing rice

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?

• Yes, ensure rice pilaf is made without any flour-containing ingredients; kafta is naturally gluten-free.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

• Yes, but the flavor will be milder; add extra herbs and spices for richness.

Q3: Can I cook kafta in the oven instead of grilling?

• Absolutely; bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q4: Can I prepare kafta ahead of time?

• Yes, shape patties or skewers and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q5: Can rice pilaf be made with brown rice?

• Yes, adjust cooking time to 35–40 minutes and use slightly more broth.

Conclusion

Lebanese Beef Kafta with Rice Pilaf is a flavorful, aromatic, and hearty dish that brings Middle Eastern cuisine into your home. Juicy, spiced kafta paired with fragrant rice makes a balanced and satisfying meal for any occasion. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite for family dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prep. With its blend of herbs, spices, and textures, this dish delivers both comfort and elegance on every plate.