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Spiced Kefta

Savory Spiced Kefta: A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

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This Spiced Kefta recipe provides a delicious blend of spices in adaptable patties suitable for meat lovers and plant-based enthusiasts alike.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 patties
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Patties
  • 1 pack Plant-Based Meat Substitute (or Ground Meat) Use Beyond Meat for a vegetarian version or opt for ground lamb.
  • 1 medium Onion (or Scallions) Finely chopped to enhance sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Key spice for traditional flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric Infuses color and subtle bitterness.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Adds sweetness and warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Allspice or Cloves Choose based on personal preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust heat level to preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher or Sea Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper or Aleppo Pepper Adds mild fruity heat.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Toasted Cashews (or Pine Nuts)
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Dried Cranberries (or Currants) For sweetness and texture.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley, Cilantro, and Mint Mix and match as desired.
  • 1 large Egg Binds mixture together.
Additional Option for Cooking
  • 1 cup Spiced Tomato Sauce Simmer kefta in sauce for added flavor.

Equipment

  • Grill or Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spiced Kefta
  1. In a medium bowl, combine your choice of plant-based meat substitute or ground meat with finely chopped onion, ground cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and allspice. Season generously with kosher salt and black or Aleppo pepper. Mix thoroughly for about 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Fold in the chopped toasted cashews, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs. Add one large egg to bind the mixture. If crumbly, consider adding a second beaten egg.
  3. Shape the mixture into round patties, about 3 inches in diameter. Aim for consistent sizes to ensure even cooking. Yield should be 8 to 10 patties.
  4. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, adding oil if using a skillet. Ensure surface is hot enough to sizzle when patties are added.
  5. Carefully place the patties onto the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Let cooked kefta rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with fresh salads, rice, or in flatbread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pattyCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chill patties for 30 minutes before cooking for better shape retention. Adjust spices to taste preferences and ensure grill or skillet is well-oiled for crispy exteriors.

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