Description
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines spiced, juicy beef kefta with creamy homemade hummus and a fresh tomato cucumber salad. It’s a well-balanced meal full of Middle Eastern-inspired flavors that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
- For the Beef Kefta:
Ground beef (80% lean), small onion (finely chopped), garlic cloves (minced), ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper (optional), salt and pepper, fresh parsley (chopped), fresh mint (chopped) - For the Hummus:
Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed), tahini, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic clove (minced), salt, water (to adjust consistency) - For the Tomato Cucumber Salad:
Cherry tomatoes (halved), cucumber (diced), red onion (finely chopped), fresh parsley (chopped), olive oil, vinegar of choice, salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preparing the Beef Kefta: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, parsley, and mint. Mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into 2-3 inch elongated meatballs or patties.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the kefta for 4-5 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Making the Hummus: In a food processor, blend chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt until smooth.
- Add water, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve creamy consistency.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice to taste.
- Assembling the Tomato Cucumber Salad: Combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, then toss well.
- Final Assembly: Arrange the beef kefta, a generous scoop of hummus, and the tomato cucumber salad on a serving platter. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for lamb or turkey for different flavor profiles.
- Add a sprinkle of sumac or za’atar to the salad for an extra Middle Eastern touch.
- Serve with warm pita bread or flatbreads to make it a fuller meal.
- Include roasted eggplant or grilled vegetables as additional sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
