Lebanese Kibbeh Pies

⏳ Time

50 minutes

🥕 Ingredients

🍽️ Servings

Description

Kibbeh, deep-fried patties made from bulgur and minced meat, are popular throughout the Middle East. However, in Syria and Lebanon, there is a special regard for this dish: a woman's skill in making kibbeh was often seen as a reflection of her prowess as a homemaker. Kibbeh must be flavorful, incorporating spices such as pepper, cinnamon, and even fresh mint. Part of the minced meat is mixed with bulgur and spices to form the base, while another portion is sautéed with onions and used as a filling. The finer the bulgur, the easier it will be to prepare.

Ingredients

Pork Mince - 15.9 oz
Bulgur - 7.8 oz
Fresh Mint - 0.4 oz
Onion - 2 heads
Pistachios - 2.5 oz
Spices - 1 tablespoon
Ground Cumin - ½ spoons
Ground Cinnamon - ½ spoons
Olive Oil - 1 fl oz
Vegetable Oil - 1 qt
Salt - to taste
Ground Black Pepper - to taste

Step by Step guide

Step 1

Soak the fine bulgur in cold water for 30 minutes. Then drain the water and squeeze it through a towel to remove any excess moisture.

Step 2

In a skillet, sauté finely chopped onion in olive oil.

Step 3

Add half of the minced meat, mix it in, breaking it up with a spatula.

Step 4

Add the toasted pine nuts, ground allspice, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 5

Combine the bulgur with the remaining minced meat, coarsely chopped onion, and mint.

Step 6

Add a teaspoon of salt and pepper, and blend until the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, you can add an ice cube to the blender.

Step 7

With hands dampened in cold water, take a piece of bulgur dough the size of an egg, roll it into a ball, and then press your finger into the center to create a indentation. Place the filling into the indentation, carefully seal the opening, and shape the pastry into an elongated form that resembles a lemon.