Trick Kibbeh

Trick Kibbeh Recipe | Vegetarian Lebanese Dish

Region / culture: Lebanon | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Trick Kibbeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. This dish features bulgur balls cooked in a savory chicken stock with lentils, herbs, and spices. The addition of lemon juice adds a refreshing citrusy note to the dish.

History

Trick Kibbeh has its origins in Lebanese cuisine, where it is a popular dish served during special occasions and celebrations. The dish is known for its unique combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

1 cup of fine grade bulgur, soaked for 0.5 hour in enough water to cover
0.25 cup of flour
3 tbsp of salt
0.25 tbsp of cinnamon
1 cup of thinly sliced green onions
0.25 cup of finely chopped mint
0.25 cup of finely chopped parsley
9 cups of chicken stock
1 cup of lentils
juice of 3 lemons
4 crushed garlic cloves
0.5 cup of olive oil
1 lemon

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix bulgur, flour, 0.5 tbsp of salt, cinnamon, green onions, mint, and parsley.
Add enough water to make a thick dough.
Roll the mixture into 24 firmly packed balls, approximately the size of large marbles.
Set the balls aside to dry.
Put 9 cups of chicken stock in a pot, add lentils, and bring to a boil for 10 minutes.
Reduce the heat to simmer and add 2.5 tbsp of salt.
Continue simmering until the lentils are tender, approximately 20 – 25 minutes.
Add the bulgur balls to the pot and boil for an additional 5 minutes.
Stir in lemon juice, garlic, and oil.
Simmer until the balls are fully cooked, approximately 10 minutes.
Garnish with thin slices of lemon.

Variations

Add ground meat to the bulgur mixture for a meatier version of Trick Kibbeh.
Substitute different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the dish.
Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of Trick Kibbeh.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roll the bulgur mixture into firm balls to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.

- Adjust the amount of salt and spices according to your taste preferences.

- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs and lemon slices for a vibrant presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Trick Kibbeh can be served as a main course with a side of salad or grilled vegetables. It pairs well with yogurt or tahini sauce for added creaminess.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the lentils until tender before adding the bulgur balls to ensure even cooking.

- Simmer the dish on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use quinoa or rice in place of bulgur for a gluten-free version of Trick Kibbeh.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.

Make Ahead Tips

Trick Kibbeh can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Trick Kibbeh with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation. Serve the dish in individual bowls for a sophisticated touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Trick Kibbeh pairs well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing mint tea. Serve the dish with a side of pita bread or flatbread for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Trick Kibbeh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Trick Kibbeh contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling dish that can be enjoyed as a main course.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Trick Kibbeh contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy for the body and are important for overall health.

Fats

Trick Kibbeh is a moderate source of fats, with each serving containing approximately 10 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come from olive oil, which is a heart-healthy source of monounsaturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Trick Kibbeh provides approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, making this dish a nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Trick Kibbeh is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice and various minerals from the lentils and herbs. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Trick Kibbeh contains gluten from the bulgur and flour, as well as potential allergens from the chicken stock. Individuals with gluten or poultry allergies should exercise caution when consuming this dish.

Summary

Overall, Trick Kibbeh is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a flavorful and satisfying option for those looking to enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Summary

Trick Kibbeh is a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. With a mix of bulgur, lentils, herbs, and spices, this dish is a satisfying option for a hearty meal. Enjoy Trick Kibbeh with your favorite sides and beverages for a complete dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Trick Kibbeh. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in her quaint little village in Lebanon. My aunt was known for her incredible culinary skills, and I was always eager to learn from her.

One day, as we sat in her cozy kitchen, she pulled out a tattered old cookbook from the shelf. It was filled with handwritten recipes passed down through generations of our family. As she flipped through the pages, she came across a recipe for Trick Kibbeh that caught my eye.

I watched in fascination as she explained the ingredients and method of preparing this traditional dish. Kibbeh is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with ground meat and bulgur wheat, but the trick version she showed me was unlike anything I had ever seen before.

The key to Trick Kibbeh, she explained, was the surprise filling hidden inside. Instead of the usual meat mixture, this version was filled with a delicious combination of pine nuts, onions, and spices. It was a clever twist on a classic dish, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

Over the years, I have perfected my own version of Trick Kibbeh, incorporating my own unique blend of spices and flavors. I have shared this recipe with friends and family, and it has become a staple at all of our gatherings.

To make Trick Kibbeh, you will need:

- 1 cup bulgur wheat

- 1 pound ground lamb or beef

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1/2 cup pine nuts

- 2 teaspoons allspice

- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Vegetable oil for frying

To start, soak the bulgur wheat in water for about 30 minutes until it softens. Drain any excess water and set aside.

In a skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Add the pine nuts, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.

Once the meat mixture is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Take a small handful of the soaked bulgur wheat and shape it into a ball. Make an indentation in the center, and fill it with a spoonful of the meat mixture. Carefully seal the bulgur wheat around the filling, forming it into a small football shape.

Repeat this process with the remaining bulgur wheat and meat mixture until you have formed all of the Trick Kibbeh.

In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the Trick Kibbeh into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Remove the Trick Kibbeh from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve hot with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce for dipping.

I have made Trick Kibbeh countless times since that day in my aunt's kitchen, and each time I am reminded of the joy and wonder I felt as a young girl learning the secrets of traditional Lebanese cooking. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with others.