Kibbee

Kibbee Recipe from Kuwait: Ground Lamb, Bulgar, Onion, and Cream Cheese with Cinnamon and Salt

Region / culture: Kuwait | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kibbee is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with ground lamb, bulgur wheat, and a variety of spices. It is a popular dish in countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, and is often served as a main course or appetizer.

History

Kibbee has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated in Lebanon and has since spread to other countries in the region. The dish has evolved over time, with different regions adding their own unique twists and flavors to the recipe.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground lamb
1 cup fine bulgur (fine wheat)
1 medium onion
0.25 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp salt
4 oz (113 g) cream cheese
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Cut the onion and puree it in a blender.
Add a small amount of water to make blending easier.
Place the meat into a mixing bowl and add all the ingredients.
Drain the water from the bulgur and squeeze out any excess water, then add it to the mixture.
When finished mixing, take out a portion of the mixture about the size of a large meatball and shape it into a football shape, approximately 4 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Poke a finger into one end of the football shape and widen it about 0.75 of the way, then place a chunk of cream cheese (approximately 2 inches by 1 inch) into the hole.
Close the top of the football shape and reshape it to look like a football.
Bake in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground lamb with cooked lentils or chickpeas.
You can also add chopped nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, to the mixture for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the bulgur wheat thoroughly before adding it to the mixture to prevent the kibbee from becoming too soggy.

- For a more flavorful dish, consider adding additional spices such as allspice, cumin, or mint.

- To ensure the kibbee stays moist while baking, you can brush it with a little olive oil before placing it in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Kibbee can be served with a side of yogurt, hummus, or a fresh salad. It can also be enjoyed with pita bread or rice.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the most common method of cooking kibbee, but it can also be fried or grilled for a different flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute it with feta cheese or labneh (strained yogurt).

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the kibbee mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This can help save time on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kibbee on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Kibbee pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as tabbouleh, fattoush salad, or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover kibbee can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of kibbee contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of kibbee contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of kibbee contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of kibbee contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Kibbee is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Kibbee contains dairy (cream cheese) and wheat (bulgur), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Kibbee is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is also relatively high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Kibbee is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. With its flavorful blend of spices and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Kibbee. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in my grandmother's bustling kitchen. My grandmother, a remarkable cook in her own right, had just returned from a trip to Lebanon and was eager to share all the new recipes she had learned.

As she unpacked her suitcase, she pulled out a worn and stained piece of paper with the word "Kibbee" scrawled across the top in faded ink. She explained that Kibbee was a traditional Lebanese dish made with ground meat, bulgur, and a blend of warm spices.

I watched in awe as my grandmother effortlessly mixed the ingredients together, her hands moving with a grace and precision that only comes from years of practice. She explained that the key to making delicious Kibbee was to use the freshest ingredients and to mix everything by hand, allowing the flavors to meld together in a way that no machine could replicate.

Over the years, I watched my grandmother make Kibbee countless times, each time perfecting her technique and adding her own twist to the recipe. I learned that the key to making the dish truly special was to take the time to prepare each ingredient with care and attention to detail.

I learned how to soak the bulgur in water until it was soft and tender, how to mix it with the ground meat, onions, and spices until it formed a smooth and pliable dough, and how to shape the mixture into small, oval-shaped patties before frying them until golden brown and crispy.

As I grew older, I took on more responsibility in the kitchen, helping my grandmother prepare the Kibbee for family gatherings and special occasions. I learned how to season the meat just right, how to adjust the amount of bulgur to achieve the perfect texture, and how to fry the patties until they were cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

My grandmother taught me that cooking was not just about following a recipe, but about infusing each dish with love, care, and attention to detail. She taught me that the most important ingredient in any meal was the memories and traditions that were passed down from generation to generation.

As I look back on those days spent in my grandmother's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons she taught me and the love she poured into every dish she prepared. The recipe for Kibbee may have come from a far-off land, but the memories and traditions that accompany it are a part of who I am and will always hold a special place in my heart.