Discover the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with our irresistible Kibbi Mihshiyyi, or Stuffed Kibbi Spheres! This delectable dish combines savory ground meat with the nutty goodness of walnuts, all encased in a perfectly seasoned bulgur shell. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something extraordinary, these golden-brown spheres are sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into the art of making Kibbi Mihshiyyi!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground meat (beef or lamb)
- 1/2 cup bulgur
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Rinse bulgur wheat thoroughly in cold water and drain completely. Let it sit for 30 minutes to soften.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, softened bulgur, half of the finely chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Knead the mixture thoroughly until it becomes a smooth, uniform paste.
- Add beaten egg to the meat mixture and continue kneading until well incorporated. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Meanwhile, prepare the filling by sautéing remaining onions in olive oil until translucent. Add chopped walnuts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- With wet hands, form the meat mixture into oval-shaped spheres approximately 2-3 inches long. Create a deep pocket in each sphere's center using your thumb.
- Carefully stuff each kibbi sphere with the walnut-onion mixture, sealing the opening completely to prevent filling from leaking.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush kibbi spheres with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, turning occasionally, until exterior is golden brown and meat is cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or serve with yogurt sauce if desired.
Tips
- Soak the Bulgur: Ensure you rinse and soak the bulgur thoroughly to achieve the right texture. This step is crucial for a smooth meat mixture.
- Kneading Technique: Knead the meat mixture well until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps bind the ingredients together and gives the kibbi its signature texture.
- Keep Hands Wet: When shaping the kibbi spheres, keep a bowl of water nearby to wet your hands. This prevents the mixture from sticking and helps you shape them easily.
- Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the openings of the stuffed kibbi tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Baking Tips: For an extra crispy exterior, brush the kibbi with olive oil before baking and turn them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance the dish by serving it with a side of yogurt sauce or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of parsley adds a vibrant touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 324kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
