Homemade Brazilian Kibe Recipe: A Taste of Tradition

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of lean ground beef
  • 1 cup of bulgur wheat
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch of fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the bulgur wheat in warm water for about 2 hours until it softens.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the softened bulgur wheat, ground beef, onion, garlic, mint, parsley, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Shape the mixture into small oval patties, about the size of a small egg.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  5. Once the oil is hot, add the patties and fry them until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take about 5 minutes per side. Ensure that the patties are cooked through.
  6. Remove the patties from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  7. Serve the Kibe hot, garnished with extra mint and parsley if desired.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
  • Frying Pan - A large pan for frying the Kibe patties.
  • Spatula - A utensil for flipping and removing the patties from the pan.
  • Knife - For finely chopping the onion, garlic, mint, and parsley.
  • Cutting Board - To provide a surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Measuring Cup - For measuring the bulgur wheat and other ingredients.
  • Paper Towels - To drain excess oil from the fried patties.

Recipe variations

  • Use lamb or a combination of lamb and beef instead of lean ground beef for a different flavor.
  • Replace bulgur wheat with quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free option.
  • Add a tablespoon of tomato paste or harissa paste to the mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Incorporate grated cheese such as feta or cheddar into the mixture for added richness.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked and mashed chickpeas or lentils.
  • Experiment with different spices such as cumin, paprika, or coriander to customize the flavor profile.
  • Add chopped nuts like almonds or pine nuts for added texture and nuttiness.
  • Instead of frying, try baking the Kibe patties in the oven for a healthier alternative.

Recipe overview

Kibe, a popular Middle Eastern dish, is known for its unique combination of flavors and textures. This recipe embraces the traditional preparation method, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying dish. Made from a blend of lean ground beef, bulgur wheat, and a medley of herbs and spices, these fried patties are a delight to the senses. They're crispy on the outside, with a warm, tender interior that's bursting with flavor. This recipe requires some hands-on preparation, but the end product is well worth the effort. The patties can be served as a main course or as part of a mezze spread. Expect a savory, slightly spicy, and fragrant dish that will take your taste buds on a journey to the Middle East. It's a wonderful way to explore new cuisine or enjoy a familiar favorite. Enjoy making this classic recipe and happy eating!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
  2. Yes, you can substitute the lean ground beef with ground lamb, chicken, or turkey if you prefer.
  3. Can I cook the Kibe in the oven instead of frying?
  4. Yes, you can bake the Kibe in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
  5. Can I make the Kibe ahead of time?
  6. Yes, you can prepare the Kibe mixture ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to shape and cook the patties. The uncooked patties can also be refrigerated for a few hours before frying or baking.
  7. Can I freeze the Kibe?
  8. Yes, you can freeze the uncooked Kibe patties. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking.
  9. What can I serve with Kibe?
  10. Kibe is often served with a side of salad, plain rice, bread, or pita bread. Some people enjoy dipping them in yogurt or a garlic sauce.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Frying Pan - A large frying pan to cook the Kibe patties.
  • Paper Towels - To drain any excess oil from the cooked patties.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion, garlic, mint, and parsley.
  • Measuring Cup - To accurately measure the bulgur wheat.
  • Spatula - To flip the Kibe patties while frying.

Origin stories

Kibe, or Kibbeh as it's known in the Middle East, has its historic roots deeply embedded in the Levantine cuisine. It's a beloved dish in countries like Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Iraq, each having their own unique twist to it. The dish was introduced to Brazil by Levantine immigrants at the turn of the 20th century and quickly found its way into mainstream Brazilian cuisine, becoming a staple snack in bars and at parties. Interestingly, the dish has transformed in Brazil to become more of a deep-fried snack, while its original preparation in the Levant is often baked or eaten raw. This is a testament to how food and culture intertwine, each adapting to the local tastes and resources.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.