How to Make Middle Eastern Kibbeh in 5 Minutes

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Today, let’s dive into a delightful and traditional dish from the Middle Eastern cuisine known as Kibbeh. This recipe showcases beautifully spiced ingredients, making it a favorite among many. Kibbeh can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, and it carries a rich history filled with flavor and culture.

Image of Middle Eastern Kibbeh

Feast your eyes on this scrumptious dish, which perfectly illustrates the art of Kibbeh.

Middle Eastern Kibbeh

Ingredients

To create this mouth-watering Kibbeh, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups fine bulgur wheat
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 pound ground lamb or beef (or a mix of both)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil (for frying, if desired)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Kibbeh:

  1. Begin by soaking the bulgur wheat in cold water for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes tender. Drain excess water and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the soaked bulgur, half of the chopped onion, and half of the ground meat. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Add in the ground cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth dough-like consistency.
  4. For the filling, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the remaining onion until translucent. Add the rest of the ground meat and cook until browned. If using, add the pine nuts and stir until fragrant. Season with additional salt and pepper.
  5. To assemble the Kibbeh, take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center, then carefully shape the Kibbeh into an oval or torpedo shape, sealing the filling inside.
  6. Once formed, you can either bake the Kibbeh in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or fry them in hot oil until golden brown on all sides.
  7. After cooking, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your homemade Kibbeh hot, accompanied by yogurt or a salad.

This delicious Middle Eastern Kibbeh recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the flavors and the wonderful experience of preparing this culinary delight!