Kefta is minced meat seasoned with herbs and spices, shaped into balls, patties or around a skewer before grilling. It is found, under similar names, from the Maghreb to the Middle East, and from Turkey to India.
In this article, discover where its name comes from, its main variations, the key steps for a good kefta and how it appears on the Quantum Isoraka menu, in Isoraka, Antananarivo.
On this page: Origins · Variations · Key steps · At Quantum Isoraka · 3-question quiz
Where does kefta come from?
The name comes from the Persian kufta, linked to a verb meaning « to pound, to grind »: originally, the meat was pounded before being shaped. The word travelled with the dish and took similar forms in different languages: kefta, kafta, köfte, kofta.
Kefta is traditionally made with lamb, mutton or beef, sometimes mixed. Onion, parsley, coriander and spices such as cumin or paprika give it its character.
One preparation, many variations
| Region | Common name | How it is often served |
|---|---|---|
| Maghreb | Kefta | Grilled on skewers, or as meatballs simmered in a tagine with tomato sauce |
| Middle East | Kafta | Grilled on a skewer, served with bread, raw vegetables or a tahini sauce |
| Turkey | Köfte | Grilled or pan-fried, as meatballs or patties |
| India | Kofta | As balls cooked in a spiced sauce; vegetarian koftas also exist |
The tahini sauce that often comes with kafta in the Middle East is covered in our article on tahini.
Key steps for a good kefta
Without going into a recipe with quantities, here are the main steps:
- The meat: minced meat with a little fat stays more tender when cooked.
- The seasoning: grated onion, chopped fresh herbs and spices are mixed into the meat, then kneaded into an even mixture.
- Resting: a spell in the fridge firms up the mixture and makes it easier to shape.
- Shaping: balls, patties or logs pressed around a skewer, with slightly damp hands.
- Cooking: on a hot grill, turning regularly, until the meat is cooked through.
Kefta at Quantum Isoraka
On our menu, kefta is listed among the starters, described as minced meat skewers with Middle Eastern herbs and spices.
For more Mediterranean flavours, explore our overview of Mediterranean cuisine.
Test your knowledge
Three questions to recap the essentials. Your answers are not saved.
Kefta in Isoraka
Quantum Isoraka welcomes you in Isoraka, Antananarivo, to share kefta and other Mediterranean flavours with family, friends or colleagues.
Book a table at Quantum Isoraka.
