Authentic Kibbeh Recipe – Lebanese Crispy Meat-Stuffed Bulgur Balls
Kibbeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with bulgur wheat, spiced ground meat, and aromatic herbs. Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these deep-fried delights are perfect as an appetizer or main course!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🥩 Crispy & Juicy – Golden-fried shell with a flavorful, spiced meat filling.
🌿 Authentic Flavors – A perfect blend of Middle Eastern spices and herbs.
⏳ Make Ahead Friendly – Prep in advance and freeze for quick meals.
🍽️ Versatile – Enjoy as an appetizer, main dish, or in wraps.
What Is Kibbeh?
Kibbeh is a classic Middle Eastern dish made from ground meat (lamb or beef), bulgur wheat, onions, and warm spices. It can be fried, baked, or served raw (kibbeh nayyeh). The most popular version is deep-fried kibbeh, which has a crispy outer shell and a flavorful spiced meat filling.
Ingredients
For the Kibbeh Shell:
✅ 1 ½ cups fine bulgur wheat
✅ 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef
✅ 1 small onion (grated)
✅ 1 tsp salt
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ ½ tsp ground cinnamon
✅ ½ tsp ground allspice
✅ ¼ cup cold water (if needed, for binding)
For the Filling:
✅ ½ lb (225g) ground lamb or beef
✅ 1 small onion (finely chopped)
✅ 2 tbsp pine nuts (optional)
✅ 1 tsp ground allspice
✅ ½ tsp cinnamon
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ 1 tbsp olive oil
For Frying:
✅ Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
HOW TO MAKE KIBBEH (STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE)
🔸 Prepare the Bulgur Dough
Soak the bulgur wheat in warm water for 15 minutes, then drain. In a food processor, blend bulgur, grated onion, ground meat, salt, and spices until a smooth dough forms. Add water if needed for binding.
🔸 Make the Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion until golden. Add the ground meat, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Stir in the pine nuts and let the filling cool.
🔸 Shape the Kibbeh
Take a small ball of the bulgur mixture, flatten it in your hand, and fill it with a spoonful of the meat mixture. Seal the edges and shape into an oval or football shape.
🔸 Fry Until Golden
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry kibbeh in batches until crispy and golden brown (about 4-5 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
🔸 Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm with tahini sauce, yogurt dip, or fresh lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
🥗 With Tabbouleh Salad – A refreshing side with herbs and lemon.
🥙 In a Pita Wrap – Serve with hummus, lettuce, and pickles.
🧄 With Garlic Yogurt Sauce – A creamy dip to enhance the flavors.
Pro Tips for the Best Kibbeh
✔️ Use fine bulgur wheat for the best texture.
✔️ Keep your hands wet when shaping kibbeh to prevent sticking.
✔️ Chill before frying to help them hold their shape.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
🔹 Can I Bake Kibbeh Instead of Frying?
Yes! Brush with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
🔹 Can I Freeze Kibbeh?
Absolutely! Freeze raw kibbeh on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Fry or bake from frozen.
🔹 What Meat is Best for Kibbeh?
Lamb is traditional, but beef works well too.
Final Thoughts 🥙
Kibbeh is a crispy, flavorful, and authentic Middle Eastern delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, this golden-fried treat is a must-try! Make a batch today and enjoy homemade kibbeh with your favorite dips!
Want More?
Can't get enough of hearty, meaty classics? Explore more recipes in our Meat Delights section for rich and satisfying flavors!
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