If you love Middle Eastern cuisine and crave a crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside fried kibbeh, you’re in the right place! This fried kibbeh recipe is easy to make and will leave everyone wanting more. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Fried Kibbeh:
- 11 oz Ground beef or lamb;
- 1 cup (125g) bulgur wheat (for kibbeh);
- 1 medium finely chopped onion;
- 2 minced garlic cloves;
- 1 tsp ground cumin;
- Salt to taste;
- Pepper to taste;
- Oil for frying.
How to Make Fried Kibbeh:
- Soak the bulgur wheat for at least 2 hours;
- Drain the wheat and mix with ground meat, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl;
- Knead the mixture thoroughly with your hands until it’s smooth and cohesive;
- Shape the kibbeh into your desired form;
- Heat oil in a deep pan until fully covered and very hot;
- Fry the kibbeh carefully until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes per side;
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil;
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and enjoy!
Healthy Alternative:
For a healthier option, bake the kibbeh instead! Place them on an oiled baking sheet and preheat oven to 392°F (200°C). Bake for 30 minutes or until golden.
A Little About Kibbeh History:
Kibbeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made of bulgur wheat and spiced meat (often lamb or beef), sometimes mixed with herbs. The name comes from the Arabic word “kubbeh,” meaning “ball.” Syrian and Lebanese immigrants brought this recipe to South America, where it became popular in Brazil. Today, you can find it in bakeries, cafes, and restaurants worldwide (Source: Wikipedia).
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