If you’re on the hunt for a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East, look no further than Kibbeh in Yogurt Sauce! This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of spiced ground meat with the creamy tang of yogurt, making it a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals. With just a bit of preparation, you can impress your friends and family with this traditional delicacy that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Ready to dive into a culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
- 1 pound ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the bulgur wheat in cold water and drain thoroughly. Let it sit for 30 minutes to soften.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, half of the finely chopped onion, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the softened bulgur wheat to the meat mixture and knead thoroughly until a smooth, cohesive dough forms. If the mixture seems dry, add a small amount of cold water.
- Shape the kibbeh mixture into oval-shaped balls, approximately 2-3 inches long. Use wet hands to prevent sticking and ensure smooth surfaces.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a gentle simmer. Carefully drop the kibbeh balls into the water and cook for 15-20 minutes until they float and are cooked through.
- While kibbeh are cooking, prepare the yogurt sauce by whisking together plain yogurt, remaining chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Remove kibbeh from water using a slotted spoon and drain excess liquid. Gently place them in the prepared yogurt sauce.
- Let the kibbeh sit in the yogurt sauce for 5-10 minutes to absorb flavors. Warm the sauce slightly if desired, but do not boil.
- Garnish with fresh chopped mint leaves before serving. Serve warm with additional sauce on the side.
Tips
- Soak the Bulgur: Make sure to rinse and soak the bulgur wheat for at least 30 minutes; this helps achieve the perfect texture for your kibbeh.
- Meat Mixture: For the best flavor, use a combination of ground lamb and beef. The lamb adds richness, while the beef balances it out.
- Kneading: When mixing the ingredients, knead the mixture well until it’s smooth and cohesive. If it feels too dry, a splash of cold water can help.
- Shaping Kibbeh: Use wet hands to shape the kibbeh balls. This prevents sticking and ensures they maintain a nice, smooth surface.
- Cooking in Water: When cooking the kibbeh, make sure the water is at a gentle simmer. Boiling can cause them to break apart.
- Yogurt Sauce: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to your yogurt sauce. It adds a refreshing zing!
- Garnish: Don’t skip the fresh mint garnish! It adds a vibrant touch and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Serving Tip: Allow the kibbeh to sit in the yogurt sauce for a few minutes before serving. This helps them absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
