Moroccan Kefta Kebab Recipe

The origins of Moroccan cuisine can be traced back to the indigenous Berber people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. Their diet consisted of grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, which formed the foundation of Moroccan cuisine today!

Over the centuries, Morocco has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Arabs, Romans, and Andalusians. These influences brought new ingredients, spices, and cooking techniques, resulting in a unique and vibrant culinary landscape. That being said, let’s dive in on how to make one of the most famous recipes in Morocco, today; Kefta Kebab!

Moroccan Kefta Kebab Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Resting Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Moroccan

Servings 4 People

Calories 120 kcal

Moroccan cuisine is a celebration of flavors, spices, and culinary traditions that have stood the test of time. The Moroccan Kefta Kebab recipe is a testament to the rich and vibrant culinary heritage of the country.

Kitchen equipment list

• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 Outdoor grill

Ingredients

  

123

• ▢ 2 lb 1 lb ground lamb & 1 lb ground beef - Ground Meat: Typically, beef or lamb is used for kefta kebabs. The fat content in the meat adds moisture and flavor to the kebabs.
• ▢ 1 tsp Fresh ground cumin - My favorite spice 🙂
• ▢ 1 medium Onions finely chopped - Onions are added to the kefta mixture to enhance the juiciness and add a subtle sweetness.
• ▢ 3 cloves Garlic finely chopped - A staple in Moroccan cooking, garlic adds a pungent and savory note to the kebabs.
• ▢ ½ tsp Salt - To season the kefta mixture and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• ▢ ½ tsp Pepper - To season the kefta mixture and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• ▢ 1 tbsp Hot Crispy Oil (Optional) - If you like Kefta with a spicy Kick to it, I highly recommend adding Hot Spicy Oil to the mixture...
• ▢ ⅓ cup Fresh parsley chopped - Fresh herbs help to lighten the overall flavor and provide a vibrant green color.
• ▢ 1 tsp Fresh mint chopped - Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add a burst of freshness to the kebabs.
• ▢ 24 apprx Bamboo skewers (I prefer bamboo over metal because it's natural!)
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Paprika
• ▢ ¼ tsp Cinnamon

Instructions 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onions, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. Mix well using your hands to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Add the spices - cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper - to the meat mixture. Again, use your hands to thoroughly mix the spices into the meat.
• Once the mixture is well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to firm up, making it easier to shape the kebabs.
• After chilling, take a handful of the kefta mixture and shape it into a long, cylindrical kebab.
• Wrap the Kefta around the bamboo skewers
• Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.
• If grilling outdoors, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If cooking indoors, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the grill or pan is hot, lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Place the kebabs on the grill or pan, leaving some space between each kebab.
• Cook the kebabs for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are charred on the outside and cooked through. Be sure to turn the kebabs gently to prevent them from falling apart.
• Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill or pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Kefta Kebab Recipe

To ensure that your Moroccan Kefta Kebabs turn out perfect every time, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

1. Use good quality meat: Choose fresh, high-quality meat for the best flavor and texture. Lean ground beef or lamb with a bit of fat is ideal for juicy and flavorful kebabs.
2. Don't overmix the kefta mixture: When combining the ingredients, mix them gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough and dense kebabs.
3. Let the mixture rest: Allowing the kefta mixture to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors to meld together and the meat to firm up, making it easier to shape the kebabs.
4. Soak the skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
5. Preheat the grill or pan: Make sure the grill or pan is properly preheated before adding the kebabs. This will ensure a nice sear and prevent the kebabs from sticking.
6. Cook to the right temperature: Ground meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the kebabs.

Nutrition

Serving: 60 gCalories: 120 kcalProtein: 11 gFat: 8 g

Keyword Kebab, Moroccan Kefta

Tried this recipe? Mention @KitchenChaosUnlocked or tag #KitchenChaosUnlocked!

Shaping and Grilling the Kefta Kebabs

1. To shape the kebabs, take a handful of the kefta mixture and mold it around a skewer or metal skewer. Gently press and shape the meat to form a long, thin kebab. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.
2. If grilling outdoors, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If cooking indoors, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Once the grill or pan is hot, lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Place the kebabs on the grill or pan, leaving some space between each kebab.
4. Cook the kebabs for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are charred on the outside and cooked through. Be sure to turn the kebabs gently to prevent them from falling apart.
5. Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill or pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Traditional Moroccan Side Dishes and Accompaniments

No Moroccan meal is complete without a selection of flavorful side dishes and accompaniments. Here are a few traditional Moroccan dishes that pair perfectly with Moroccan Kefta Kebabs:

1. Moroccan Couscous: A staple in Moroccan cuisine, couscous is a versatile and flavorful grain dish. Made from semolina, couscous is light and fluffy, providing a perfect base for the kebabs.
2. Moroccan Salad: A refreshing mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and aromatic spices, Moroccan salad adds a burst of color and freshness to the meal. It typically includes tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Hot crispy oil: A spicy and crispy oil that adds a fiery kick to the kebabs. An all natural unique blend of fresh fried shallots, fresh garlic and a proprietary blend of three different chili peppers. Highly addictive.
4. Made from roasted red peppers, chili peppers, garlic, and spices, it can be served on the side or drizzled over the kebabs.
5. Moroccan Mint Tea: To complement the bold flavors of the kebabs, a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea is the perfect accompaniment. Made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and sugar, it is a refreshing and aromatic beverage.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to serving Moroccan Kefta Kebabs, presentation is key. Here are some serving suggestions and presentation ideas to elevate your kebab experience:

1. Serve the kebabs on a bed of fluffy Moroccan couscous and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.
2. Create a vibrant platter by arranging the kebabs alongside a colorful Moroccan salad. The contrasting colors and flavors will make the dish visually appealing.
3. If you’re hosting a Moroccan-themed dinner party, serve the kebabs on a decorative Moroccan serving platter. Add some Moroccan-inspired tableware and decorations to create an immersive dining experience.
4. Drizzle the kebabs with a tangy and creamy yogurt sauce. Simply mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt for a delightful accompaniment.
5. For a touch of sweetness, serve the kebabs with a side of Moroccan preserved lemons. These preserved lemons have a unique flavor and add a tangy and slightly bitter note to the dish.

Variations and Flavor Profiles of Moroccan Kefta Kebabs

While the traditional Moroccan Kefta Kebab recipe is a culinary masterpiece on its own, you can also experiment with different variations and flavor profiles. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Lamb Kefta Kebabs: Instead of using beef, try making kebabs using ground lamb. Lamb has a rich and distinct flavor that pairs well with the Moroccan spice blend.
2. Vegetarian Kefta Kebabs: For those who prefer a plant-based option, you can substitute the meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas. Season the mixture with the same spices and herbs for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
3. Spicy Kefta Kebabs: If you enjoy a fiery kick, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the kefta mixture. This will give the kebabs an extra level of heat and spice.
4. Moroccan Kefta Burger: Shape the kefta mixture into patties instead of kebabs and serve them in a burger bun. Top it with your favorite burger toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and onion, for a Moroccan twist on a classic favorite.

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Kefta Kebab Recipe

To ensure that your Moroccan Kefta Kebabs turn out perfect every time, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

1. Use good quality meat: Choose fresh, high-quality meat for the best flavor and texture. Lean ground beef or lamb with a bit of fat is ideal for juicy and flavorful kebabs.
2. Don’t overmix the kefta mixture: When combining the ingredients, mix them gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough and dense kebabs.
3. Let the mixture rest: Allowing the kefta mixture to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors to meld together and the meat to firm up, making it easier to shape the kebabs.
4. Soak the skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
5. Preheat the grill or pan: Make sure the grill or pan is properly preheated before adding the kebabs. This will ensure a nice sear and prevent the kebabs from sticking.
6. Cook to the right temperature: Ground meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the kebabs.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Moroccan Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine is a celebration of flavors, spices, and culinary traditions that have stood the test of time. The Moroccan Kefta Kebab recipe is a testament to the rich and vibrant culinary heritage of the country.

By following this recipe and exploring different variations, you can bring the taste of Morocco to your own kitchen and experience the magic of Moroccan cuisine. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or heat up the pan, and embark on a flavorful adventure with this delectable Moroccan Kefta Kebab recipe. Get ready to savor the rich flavors and transport yourself to the colorful streets of Morocco.