Fried Kibe Traditional and Tasty Recipe
O fried kibbeh It is a recipe that easily wins over anyone's taste buds. This delicacy of Arab origin has become popular in several countries, and in Brazil, it has gained a special place at family gatherings, parties and even as an appetizer in bars and restaurants.
Prepare a delicious fried kibbeh at home it's not as difficult as it seems, and with the right recipe, you can surprise your guests with this delight.
In this article, we will teach you step by step how to do it. fried kibbeh perfect, as well as sharing valuable tips to ensure it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
What is Kibe?
O kibbeh (or kibbeh, as it is known in Arab countries) is a traditional dish made from bulgur (or kibbeh wheat), ground meat and spices.
Its fried version is one of the most popular and can be served as an appetizer or main course.
In addition to the fried version, the kibbeh can also be roasted or even raw, like the famous raw kibbeh served in Arab restaurants.
Fried Kibbeh Ingredients
To do the fried kibbeh, you will need the following ingredients:
- 500g ground beef (preferably flank or rump)
- 250g bulgur (wheat for kibbeh)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 crushed garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1 tablespoon Syrian pepper
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Step by Step to Prepare Fried Kibbeh
1. Hydrate the wheat
The first step to prepare the fried kibbeh is to hydrate the wheat. Place the wheat in a bowl and add enough warm water to cover all the wheat.
Soak for about 30 minutes, or until the wheat has absorbed all the water and is soft. Then, drain well, squeezing the wheat with your hands to remove excess water.
This step is essential to ensure that the fried kibbeh have the ideal texture.
2. Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the hydrated wheat with the ground meat, onion, garlic, mint and seasonings (Syrian pepper, salt and black pepper).
Knead well with your hands until you get a homogeneous mixture. The secret to a fried kibbeh The most tasty thing is to knead it well, ensuring that the seasonings mix perfectly with the meat and wheat.
3. Shape the kibes
With the dough ready, it's time to shape the kibes. To do this, take small portions of the mixture and make balls, shaping them in the traditional shape of fried kibbeh, which is elongated and pointed at the ends.
If you prefer, you can also stuff the kibes with cheese or seasoned meat, creating an even tastier version of this recipe.
4. Fry the kibes
Heat the oil in a deep pan and, when it is hot, start frying the kibes.
Drop a few at a time into the oil, without overcrowding the pan, to ensure they fry evenly. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Then remove the kibes of oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess fat.
Tips for Perfect Fried Kibbeh
- Oil temperature: It is essential that the oil is very hot before you start frying. If the oil is cold, the kibes They can absorb too much oil and become soggy. The ideal point is when you put a small piece of dough in and it starts to fry immediately, forming bubbles around it.
- Do not overload the pan: Fry many kibes all at once causes the temperature of the oil to drop, which can affect the final result. Fry in small batches to ensure that they all turn out golden and crispy.
- Filling: If you want to innovate, you can fill the kibes with mozzarella cheese, cream cheese or even seasoned ground beef. The filling gives a special touch and surprises whoever tries it.
- Minced meat: Always choose lean meats, such as flank steak, to make the fried kibbeh. Meats with a lot of fat can make the kibbeh heavy and less crunchy.
Variations of Fried Kibbeh
O fried kibbeh It is a versatile recipe that can be adapted in many ways. In addition to the filling, you can experiment with different seasonings or even make vegetarian versions. Here are some options:
1. Vegetarian Fried Kibbeh
For those who do not eat meat, it is possible to do the kibbeh using vegetables and grains as substitutes.
Pumpkin, for example, can be combined with bulgur to form the base of the vegetarian kibbeh.
Season with herbs such as mint and parsley, and shape the kibes in the same way as the traditional recipe. The texture and flavor are amazing!
2. Fried Kibbeh with Cheese
One of the most popular variations of the fried kibbeh is the cheese-stuffed version. The fried kibbeh with cheese It is an irresistible option for those who like creamy and crunchy combinations.
To prepare, simply place a piece of cheese in the center of the dough while you are shaping the kibes. When fried, the cheese melts and creates an explosion of flavor when bitten into.
3. Chicken Kibbeh
Another variation is the chicken kibbeh. Instead of beef, you can use ground chicken for a lighter and healthier version.
The preparation process is the same, but the final flavor is milder, ideal for those who prefer white meats.
How to Serve Fried Kibbeh
O fried kibbeh It is extremely versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are some suggestions:
- Appetizer: Serve the fried kibbeh as an appetizer at parties and events, accompanied by sauces such as tahini, dried curd or a hot sauce. This is the most common way to consume the kibbeh in Brazil.
- Main course: O fried kibbeh It can also be the star of a lunch or dinner, accompanied by tabbouleh salad, rice with lentils and pita bread. This combination is typical of Arab cuisine and pleases all tastes.
- Snack: O fried kibbeh It can be a great option for an afternoon snack or even to take to picnics and informal meetings. Just prepare them in advance and serve with the sauce of your choice.
Benefits of Fried Kibbeh
Although the fried kibbeh Although it is a food considered to be higher in calories due to frying, it can offer some benefits, especially when prepared with quality ingredients and in moderate portions.
Wheat for kibbeh is an excellent source of fiber, which helps the intestines to function properly and provides a feeling of fullness.
Furthermore, beef is rich in proteins and B vitamins, which are essential for muscle health and the proper functioning of the nervous system.
Conclusion
Prepare fried kibbeh at home can be a delightful and rewarding experience. With the tips and step-by-step instructions presented in this article, you will be able to do kibes crunchy, tasty and perfect for any occasion.
Remember that practice makes perfect, so don't hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and fillings until you find your favorite version.
Now that you know how to prepare the best fried kibbeh, how about getting your hands dirty and surprising your friends and family? This recipe is sure to be a hit at any event!