Kafta is a Middle Eastern lamb and beef dish that is typically served as kebobs, but this version takes the skewers out of the equation for a more versatile approach. Combining ground lamb and Italian sausage, these flavorful meatballs can be served over fragrant Jasmine rice, peppery arugula, and fresh...

Ingredients
Kafta
- ground lamb1/2lb
- ground Italian sausage1/2lb
- almond flour1tbsp
- egg1
- Moore's original1tbsp
- Parmesan cheese, shredded1/4cup
- green olives, chopped1/3cup
- red onion, diced1/4cup
- allspice1tsp
- garlic, minced1tbsp
- lemon squeezed1/4
- pepper1tsp
- Olive oil
Tzatziki Sauce
- plain Greek yogurt, or sour cream1/2cup
- cucumber diced1/2
- lemon squeezed1/4
- dried dill1tsp
- salt1tsp
To Serve
- Jasmine rice, cooked
- Arugula, washed
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
336.4kcal (16.82%)
Protein
22.2g (44.36%)
Carbs
7.3g (2.67%)
Sugars
2.0g (4.1%)
Healthy Fat
12.2g
Unhealthy Fat
10.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Unkebobed Kafta
Kafta
- Step 1
Combine all ingredients except olive oil and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Step 2
Remove from fridge and roll into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Step 3
Bring a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add meatballs and brown on both sides.
- Step 4
Reduce heat to medium-low and add water to steam. Cover for 2 minutes.
- Step 5
Uncover and turn meatballs to brown evenly. Remove when water has evaporated.
Tzatziki Sauce
- Step 1
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
To Serve
- Step 1
Serve Kafta over Jasmine rice and arugula, drizzled with tzatziki sauce.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
336.4kcal (16.82%)
Protein
22.2g (44.36%)
Carbs
7.3g (2.67%)
Sugars
2.0g (4.1%)
Healthy Fat
12.2g
Unhealthy Fat
10.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Refrigerating the kafta mixture helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to shape into meatballs.
For a low-carb option, skip the rice and serve the kafta over a bed of greens with extra tzatziki.
These meatballs freeze well. Store them in freezer bags for an easy meal later.
Try crumbling the kafta over pita chips with feta, olives, onions, and tzatziki for a creative Greek nacho dish.
The flavors develop overnight, so leftovers taste even better the next day.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of meat for the kafta?
Yes, you can substitute the lamb or Italian sausage with ground beef, turkey, or chicken, but the flavor profile may change.
What is Moore's original?
Moore's original is a marinade or sauce that adds flavor. You can substitute it with Worcestershire sauce or a similar seasoning.
Can I bake the kafta instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
How do I make Jasmine rice fragrant and fluffy?
Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Cook it with a 1:1.5 rice-to-water ratio for fluffy, fragrant results.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
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Shea Goldstein
(@dixiechikcooks)
A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia