Authentic Lebanese Kibbeh Recipe – Traditional Middle Eastern

Lebanese Kibbeh – Lebanese Kibbeh is one of the most iconic dishes in Lebanese cuisine — a flavorful combination of finely ground meat, bulgur wheat, onions, and fragrant Middle Eastern spices. Often referred to as the national dish of Lebanon, Kibbeh (pronounced kib-beh) embodies the country’s culinary soul, offering a perfect balance of texture, taste, and aroma.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Lebanese / Middle Eastern

• Course: Main Course

• Servings: 6

• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Active Time: 30 minutes

• Resting Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Equipment

• Mixing bowls

• Large skillet

• Baking dish (9×13 inches)

• Food processor or meat grinder

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Sharp knife

Ingredients

For the Kibbeh Mixture:

• 2 cups fine bulgur wheat

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef (lean)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp ground allspice

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil or clarified butter

• ½ lb ground lamb or beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• ¼ cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground allspice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Nutrition

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur

Rinse the bulgur wheat in cold water and soak it for about 15 minutes. Once softened, drain it well by pressing out excess water with your hands. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Kibbeh Dough

In a food processor, combine the soaked bulgur, ground meat, chopped onion, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and dough-like in texture. You may need to scrape down the sides occasionally to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Transfer the kibbeh mixture to a large bowl and knead with your hands for a few minutes to ensure a uniform texture. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil or clarified butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the toasted pine nuts, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Kibbeh

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or butter. Divide the kibbeh mixture into two portions.

• Bottom Layer: Spread one half of the kibbeh mixture evenly across the bottom of the baking dish using your fingers or a spatula. Smooth it out into an even layer.

• Filling Layer: Spread the cooked meat filling evenly over the bottom layer.

• Top Layer: Cover the filling with the remaining kibbeh mixture, smoothing it evenly to seal the filling inside.

Using a knife, score the top layer into diamond or square patterns — this helps it bake evenly and gives it a traditional look. Brush lightly with olive oil or melted butter for a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake the Kibbeh

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and slightly crisp. If you prefer a crispier top, switch to broil mode for the last 2–3 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the baked kibbeh to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of plain yogurt, cucumber salad, or hummus.

Tips for Perfect Lebanese Kibbeh

• Use fine bulgur wheat: Coarse bulgur gives a grainy texture — fine bulgur creates a smooth, cohesive dough.

• Keep the meat cold: This prevents the kibbeh dough from becoming too sticky while mixing.

• Toasting pine nuts: Adds a nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

• Don’t overbake: Overbaking can dry out the kibbeh. Aim for a golden top and moist interior.

• Make ahead: You can assemble the kibbeh a day before baking and refrigerate it covered.

Conclusion

Lebanese Kibbeh is a masterpiece of Middle Eastern cuisine — a dish that embodies tradition, family, and flavor in every bite. From its tender meat filling to its fragrant spice blend, it showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary.