Kibbeh, a popular Middle Eastern dish, has been delighting taste buds for centuries. Made with ground meat and bulgur, this savory pastry can be cooked in a variety of ways – baked, fried, or even raw. But what really sets kibbeh apart is its versatility: it can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even dessert! In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious kibbeh recipes from around the world, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile. From classic Lebanese baked kibbeh to vegan mushroom and walnut versions, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Read on to discover how you can elevate your cooking game and impress your friends with these mouth-watering kibbeh recipes!
Classic Lebanese Baked Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic baked version is a staple of Lebanese cuisine, packed with the rich flavors of spices, herbs, and ground meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, parsley, onion, garlic, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Shape the mixture into a log or a round shape, about 1 inch thick.
5. Place the kibbeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Beef and Pine Nut Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a popular dish in the Middle East, typically made with ground meat and bulgur. This recipe gives it a spicy kick by adding beef and pine nuts to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked bulgur
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked bulgur, parsley, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
6. Place kibbeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each patty.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Crispy Fried Kibbeh Balls
Crispy Fried Kibbeh Balls: A Delicious Twist on a Middle Eastern Classic
These crispy fried kibbeh balls are a flavorful and addictive twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dish. Made with ground meat, bulgur, and spices, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup bulgur
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon allspice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bulgur, chopped onion, egg, salt, black pepper, and allspice. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 kibbeh balls.
4. Fry the kibbeh balls in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil and Bulgur Kibbeh
This Middle Eastern-inspired dish combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the comforting warmth of lentils, all wrapped up in a crispy exterior. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, cumin, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lentils, bulgur, breadcrumbs, parsley, carrot, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Shape mixture into patties or small balls.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkish Raw Kibbeh with Pomegranate Molasses
This traditional Turkish dish combines the flavors of bulgur, spices, and pomegranate molasses to create a delicious and refreshing appetizer or snack. The raw kibbeh is light and crumbly, while the pomegranate molasses adds a sweet and tangy twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fine bulgur
– 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup finely chopped mint
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bulgur, parsley, mint, onion, and feta cheese (if using).
2. Mix well with your hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, and mix until the mixture is crumbly and slightly sticky.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, drizzle pomegranate molasses over the kibbeh.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Kibbeh
This recipe puts a sweet spin on traditional kibbeh by using oven-baked sweet potatoes instead of bulgur. The result is a crispy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for game day or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Let sweet potatoes cool, then mash in a bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, and cumin.
5. Add the egg to the breadcrumb mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Fold the breadcrumb mixture into the mashed sweet potatoes until well combined.
7. Shape into patties or small balls.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Middle Eastern Lamb and Mint Kibbeh
A classic Middle Eastern dish, kibbeh is a flavorful mixture of lamb, mint, and spices, formed into patties or balls and fried to perfection. This recipe offers a twist on the traditional version by adding fresh mint for an added burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine lamb, mint, onion, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
2. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the mixture forms a cohesive ball.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty or ball.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the kibbeh for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes per batch, depending on size and number of kibbeh.
Cheesy Spinach and Feta Stuffed Kibbeh
A Middle Eastern twist on traditional stuffed kibbeh, this recipe combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and warm spices to create a delicious and savory appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– All-purpose flour, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, onion, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Persian Saffron-Infused Kibbeh
This recipe combines the rich flavors of saffron with the traditional Persian kibbeh to create a unique and aromatic dish. Perfect for special occasions or as an appetizer, this Persian Saffron-Infused Kibbeh is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated beef (or lamb)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bulgur, onion, beef (or lamb), flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the saffron mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Knead the mixture for about 5 minutes until it forms a smooth dough.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the kibbeh balls for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Gluten-Free Quinoa Kibbeh
Kibbeh, a Middle Eastern favorite, gets a gluten-free twist with this quinoa-based recipe. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped onion, parsley, cilantro, salt, pepper, and cumin.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Gradually add the gluten-free flour, mixing until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the kibbeh for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lebanese Yogurt-Marinated Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dish, typically made with ground meat and bulgur. In this recipe, we’re giving it a tangy twist by marinating the mixture in yogurt and spices before grilling to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1/2 cup fine bulgur
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bulgur, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Form kibbeh mixture into small patties.
4. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Harissa and Lamb Kibbeh
This recipe combines the bold flavors of North African cuisine with the warmth of lamb, resulting in a deliciously spicy and savory dish perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons harissa paste (spicy chili pepper paste)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a ball or oval shape.
4. Place the kibbeh balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and brush with harissa paste. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Walnut Kibbeh
This recipe combines the richness of roasted eggplant with the nutty flavor of walnuts, all wrapped up in crispy kibbeh. The result is a deliciously unique side dish or main course that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 onion, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted eggplant, parsley, walnuts, breadcrumbs, and chopped onion.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Shape mixture into small patties or balls.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before reheating.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes (including roasting time).
Syrian Pomegranate-Glazed Kibbeh
This traditional Middle Eastern dish combines the flavors of crispy kibbeh balls with a tangy pomegranate glaze, perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground meat (beef, lamb, or combination)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Pomegranate glaze (see below)
– Fresh pomegranate seeds for garnish
Pomegranate Glaze:
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. While kibbeh is baking, prepare the pomegranate glaze by whisking together pomegranate juice, honey, and lemon juice.
6. Remove kibbeh from oven and brush with pomegranate glaze.
7. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Pistachio Kibbeh
This recipe combines the flavors of tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and crunchy pistachios to create a unique and delicious kibbeh dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup pistachio meal
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cooked rice, parsley, cilantro, olive oil, onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Add pistachio meal and mix until just combined.
4. Shape into small patties or logs.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Kibbeh with Dates
This recipe combines the classic Middle Eastern dish of kibbeh (ground meat and bulgur) with the natural sweetness of dates, all wrapped up in a fragrant Moroccan spice blend. The result is a unique and aromatic appetizer or snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground lamb
– 1/2 cup cooked bulgur
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 6 dates, pitted
– Olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, bulgur, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Shape into small patties, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
7. Serve warm with chopped parsley and pitted dates.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Armenian Bulgur and Lamb Kibbeh
This traditional Armenian dish combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the savory taste of lamb, all wrapped up in a crispy kibbeh shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine bulgur, lamb, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add the beaten egg to the mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Fry the kibbeh in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Seafood Kibbeh
This Mediterranean-inspired kibbeh recipe combines the freshness of seafood with the warmth of aromatic spices, perfect for a satisfying appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, seafood, parsley, cilantro, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into 6-8 small patties or kibbeh balls.
4. Place the kibbeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Mushroom and Walnut Kibbeh
This Middle Eastern-inspired kibbeh is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian option, packed with sautéed mushrooms, toasted walnuts, and fragrant spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked mushrooms to the rice mixture and stir well.
5. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
6. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
7. Place the kibbeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with remaining olive oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lebanese Stuffed Grape Leaves Kibbeh
This classic Lebanese dish is a flavorful and nutritious delight, perfect for any occasion. Fresh grape leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of rice, meat, and spices make for a delicious and memorable meal.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 fresh grape leaves
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon allspice
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the grape leaves: Blanch fresh grape leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds to remove bitterness. Then, rinse with cold water and set aside.
2. Mix cooked rice, ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, allspice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface, with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the leaf into a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining grape leaves and filling. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the kibbeh for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of kibbeh with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic Lebanese baked kibbeh to Turkish raw kibbeh with pomegranate molasses, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at crispy fried kibbeh balls or savory vegetarian lentil and bulgur kibbeh. Spice up your life with spicy beef and pine nut kibbeh or Moroccan spiced kibbeh with dates. Explore the flavors of the Middle East with lamb and mint kibbeh, cheese-stuffed kibbeh, or Mediterranean seafood kibbeh. Whether you’re a meat-lover or vegan, there’s a kibbeh recipe for you!
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