Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey with the legendary Dominican Kipes Quipes - a crispy, flavor-packed delicacy that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of the Caribbean! These golden, torpedo-shaped croquettes are not just a dish, they're a cultural experience that combines the rich traditions of Dominican cuisine with an explosion of savory goodness that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Dominican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup bulgur wheat
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Rinse the bulgur wheat thoroughly under cold water and drain well. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of oil and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Allow the meat mixture to cool slightly, then add it to the bulgur wheat. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the bulgur absorbs the meat's flavors and juices.
- Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a cohesive, slightly sticky dough. If the mixture seems too dry, add a small amount of water.
- Using wet hands, shape the mixture into oval or torpedo-shaped croquettes, about 2-3 inches long. Ensure each kipe is compact and well-sealed.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to completely submerge the kipes.
- Carefully place the shaped kipes into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove the kipes using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with a side of lime wedges, hot sauce, or a simple salad. Enjoy your Dominican kipes!
Tips
- Bulgur Wheat Mastery: Ensure you rinse the bulgur wheat thoroughly and drain well to prevent excess moisture.
- Meat Mixture Magic: Allow the meat mixture to cool slightly before mixing with bulgur to help bind the ingredients perfectly.
- Shaping Secrets: Use wet hands when forming kipes to prevent the mixture from sticking and to create smooth, compact croquettes.
- Oil Temperature Control: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) for even, crispy frying.
- Batch Frying: Don't overcrowd the pan - fry in small batches to ensure each kipe gets golden and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Use paper towels to remove excess oil and keep your kipes light and crisp.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with fresh lime wedges or a spicy hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
