Kibbeh Recipe

There’s something truly magical about gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories and delectable dishes that warm the heart. One such dish that never fails to amaze is Kibbeh. This traditional Middle Eastern delicacy, with its perfectly shaped, golden brown exterior and flavorful filling, brings people together in the most delightful way. Imagine biting into the crispy shell, releasing the aromatic, spiced filling – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, Kibbeh is the perfect choice to bring a touch of creativity and tradition to your table.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 1 cup fine bulgur wheat</
• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Rinse the bulgur wheat under cold water, then soak in enough water to cover for about 20 minutes. Drain well by squeezing out the excess water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the drained bulgur wheat, half of the ground meat, half of the chopped onion, cumin, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
3. To make the filling, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the remaining onions and sauté until translucent.
4. Add the remaining ground meat to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in the pine nuts, fresh mint, and fresh parsley. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
5. To shape the Kibbeh, take a handful of the bulgur mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and shape it into a ball. Gently press your thumb in the center to form a hollow. Place a spoonful of the filling into the hollow and carefully reshape the mixture to enclose the filling completely, forming a pointed oval shape.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the Kibbeh to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve the Kibbeh hot with a side of fresh salad and a small bowl of tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Helpful Tips

• For beginners, shaping the Kibbeh can take practice – be patient and keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking.
• To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground meat with finely chopped cooked mushrooms and lentils.
• If you’re short on time, you can bake the shaped Kibbeh in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Kibbeh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy texture.

Pairings

Kibbeh pairs wonderfully with a fresh Fattoush salad and a side of hummus. For drinks, a refreshing glass of mint lemonade or a warm cup of spiced tea complements the flavors beautifully.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, one recipe at a time. We hope this Kibbeh recipe inspires you to try something new and share the experience with your loved ones. We’d love to see your creations, so be sure to tag us on social media and use the hashtag #ZynahzKitchen.

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