Kafta Beisinieh (Lebanese Meat Loaf)(The Same Meat Mix Can Be Used For Kabobs.)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Kafta Beisinieh is a flavorful Lebanese meat loaf with aromatic spices, topped with potatoes and tomatoes, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It offers savory, spiced goodness with a hearty texture.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground lamb or beef
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 4 medium potatoes, cooked
  • 2 tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup cracker crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon allspice

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly mix all ingredients except tomato sauce, water, potatoes, and tomatoes.
  2. Knead until fluffy.
  3. Place the meat mixture into a 9-inch round cake pan, spreading about 3/4-inch thick and higher at the sides.
  4. Cut the cooked potatoes and arrange them attractively on top of the meat.
  5. Slice the tomatoes and lay them on top of the potatoes.
  6. Mix water and tomato sauce, then pour over and around the meat.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of cracker crumbs. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture can elevate the dish. Make sure to knead the mixture well for a fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This kafta beisinieh pairs beautifully with a refreshing cucumber salad or Mediterranean recipes like Venetian Salad. Serve with warm pita bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a tangy yogurt sauce to enhance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kafta in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Kafta Beisinieh (Lebanese Meat Loaf)(The Same Meat Mix Can Be Used For Kabobs.) contains roughly 554 calories, with 20g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1444mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).

554 kcal 28% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.7g 39% DV
Total Fat 25.4g 33% DV
Carbs 61.8g 22% DV
Fiber 3.4g 12% DV
Sugar 6.9g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1444mg 63% DV
Potassium 1002.5mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 153.9mg 51% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 63.3mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 50.1mg 56% DV
Calcium 151.8mg 12% DV
Iron 3mg 16% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze kafta beisinieh?

Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as instructed. This allows for better texture and flavor retention.

What can I use instead of ground lamb?

If you're not a fan of lamb, ground beef is a great alternative that works well in this recipe. For a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can also be used, although they may result in a slightly different flavor. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. You could also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce or sprinkle some crushed chili on top before serving. This will enhance the flavor while giving it a nice kick.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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