Lebanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of Lebanese cuisine, combining the rich flavors of spiced ground meat (kafta) with the refreshing taste of tabbouleh, a traditional salad made from parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. This dish is popular not only for its delicious flavor profile but also for its nutritional benefits, making it a favorite among health-conscious food lovers. Kafta typically includes a blend of aromatic spices, which enhances the taste and adds a unique twist to the meal. As noted in culinary sources, the fusion of kafta and tabbouleh offers a perfect balance of protein and fresh vegetables, appealing to a wide range of palates.” The combination of these two iconic dishes showcases the vibrant food culture of Lebanon, making Kafta Wa Tabbouleh a staple in both casual and festive dining settings.

Preparation of Lebanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh

Lebanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh is a beloved dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Lebanon. Kafta consists of spiced ground meat, typically lamb or beef, shaped into patties or skewers, while tabbouleh is a refreshing parsley-based salad. Together, they create a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that embodies the essence of Lebanese cuisine. This dish has origins that date back centuries, reflecting the agricultural bounty and cultural influences of the region.

Ingredients

For the Kafta:

  • 500g ground lamb or beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Skewers (if grilling)

For the Tabbouleh:

  • 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
  • 2 cups fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Kafta

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, parsley, cumin, allspice, black pepper, and salt.
  2. Mix the ingredients well with your hands until fully incorporated.
  3. Shape the mixture into oval patties or mold onto skewers for grilling.
  4. Drizzle with olive oil and set aside to marinate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Tabbouleh

  1. Rinse the bulgur wheat under cold water, then soak it in warm water for about 20-30 minutes until it softens. Drain any excess water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the soaked bulgur, chopped parsley, mint, diced tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the bulgur and vegetables, and mix thoroughly to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Kafta

  1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. If using skewers, thread the kafta onto them.
  3. Grill the kafta for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and browned.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Place the grilled kafta on a serving platter alongside the tabbouleh.
  2. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges as desired.
  3. Enjoy your Lebanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh warm with pita bread or alone!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh?

Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh is a popular Middle Eastern dish that combines seasoned ground meat skewers (kafta) with a fresh parsley and bulgur salad (tabbouleh).

What ingredients are in Kafta?

Kafta typically includes ground beef or lamb, onions, parsley, garlic, and a blend of spices such as cumin and allspice.

What is the main ingredient in Tabbouleh?

The main ingredient in tabbouleh is parsley, along with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, mint, and a dressing of olive oil and lemon juice.

How is Kafta cooked?

Kafta is usually grilled or baked on skewers until it is well-cooked and slightly charred.

Is Tabbouleh vegan?

Yes, tabbouleh is typically vegan, containing fresh vegetables, herbs, and grains without any animal products.

Can I make Labanese Kafta with chicken?

Yes, you can use ground chicken instead of beef or lamb to make a lighter version of Labanese Kafta.

What can I serve with Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh?

You can serve it with pita bread, hummus, or yogurt sauce to enhance the flavors of Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh.

How long does it take to prepare Tabbouleh?

Preparation for tabbouleh takes about 15-20 minutes, especially if you have the bulgur pre-soaked.

Can I make Kafta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Kafta in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and grill it when ready to serve.

What is the nutritional value of Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh?

Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh is rich in protein and fiber, providing a balanced meal with vitamins from fresh vegetables.

How should I store leftovers of Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Can I customize the ingredients in Tabbouleh?

Yes, you can customize tabbouleh by adding ingredients like cucumber or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.

Is Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh gluten-free?

Labanese Kafta Wa Tabbouleh is not gluten-free due to bulgur wheat in tabbouleh, but you can use quinoa as a substitute for a gluten-free option.

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