Heart-Healthy Lebanese Kafta

Savor the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this Heart-Healthy Lebanese Kafta recipe, a wholesome twist on a traditional favorite. Made with lean ground turkey, freshly chopped parsley, and aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, these juicy patties are a lighter yet satisfying choice. Cooked to golden perfection in heart-friendly olive oil, the kafta is served inside warm whole wheat pita bread, garnished with refreshing mint leaves and a squeeze of zesty lemon. Perfect for a nourishing weeknight dinner, this dish is not only packed with protein but also brimming with bold, authentic Lebanese flavors. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a flavorful, nutritious option for those looking to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine with a healthy spin.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams lean ground turkey
• 0.5 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 pieces whole wheat pita bread, for serving
• 0.25 cup fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• 1 whole lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped parsley, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, sea salt, and black pepper.

Step 2

Using your hands, mix the ingredients until well combined, making sure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the turkey mixture.

Step 3

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a long sausage-like patty (about the length of your thumb).

Step 4

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Step 5

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the turkey patties into the skillet. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and nicely browned.

Step 6

Remove the kafta from the skillet and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Step 7

Warm the whole wheat pita bread either in a toaster or on a skillet for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 8

To serve, place two turkey kafta inside each pita bread, garnished with fresh mint leaves and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the kafta.

Step 9

Enjoy your heart-healthy Lebanese Kafta while warm!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1142.4 grams (1142.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1776

Total Fat 72.00g	92%
Saturated Fat 14.80g	74%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 357mg	119%
Sodium 4006mg	174%
Total Carbohydrate 177.70g	65%
Dietary Fiber 30.00g	107%
Total Sugars 13.60g
Protein 132.60g	265%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 674mg	52%
Iron 28mg	154%
Potassium 3250mg	69%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.3%

Protein: 28.1%

Carbs: 37.6%