Nut-Free Kefta

Experience the bold and aromatic flavors of the Middle East with this Nut-Free Kefta recipe, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfectly seasoned with a medley of spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, these juicy ground lamb or beef patties are bound to become a family favorite. Fresh parsley, garlic, and onion bring a vibrant depth to every bite, while a hint of cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of heat. These kefta are pan-seared to golden perfection in olive oil, making them tender on the inside and beautifully crisp on the outside—all within just 35 minutes from start to finish. With no nuts in sight, this dish is an ideal option for those with dietary restrictions. Serve them hot with a side of couscous, a refreshing salad, or warm pita bread for a satisfying and allergen-friendly meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium onion
• 2 large garlic cloves
• 30 grams fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince or press the garlic cloves. Finely chop the parsley leaves and discard the stems.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.

Step 3

Add cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture.

Step 4

Using your hands, mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Do not overmix, as this can make the meat tough.

Step 5

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into oval patties or logs about 2 cm thick.

Step 6

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 7

Once the oil is hot, place the kefta patties in the skillet. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until they are browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside.

Step 8

Transfer the cooked kefta to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 9

Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as couscous, salad, or pita bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	734.2 grams (734.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1624

Total Fat 129.90g	167%
Saturated Fat 44.60g	223%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 400mg	133%
Sodium 2742mg	119%
Total Carbohydrate 25.50g	9%
Dietary Fiber 5.70g	20%
Total Sugars 7.80g
Protein 89.90g	180%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 192mg	15%
Iron 13mg	71%
Potassium 1940mg	41%

*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: 71.7%

Protein: 22.1%

Carbs: 6.3%