Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine with Kibbi Bis Sayniyyi, a baked delicacy that will transport your taste buds to a world of rich flavors and centuries-old culinary traditions. This tantalizing dish layers seasoned ground meat and bulgur wheat into a crispy, golden masterpiece that's guaranteed to impress both family and dinner guests. Whether you're a culinary adventurer or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and introduce you to a truly spectacular dish that's both comforting and exotic.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 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
Instructions
- Rinse the bulgur wheat thoroughly in cold water and drain well. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to soften.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine half of the ground meat with the softened bulgur wheat. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until well combined, kneading the mixture to create a smooth, paste-like consistency.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring the bottom and sides are well-coated.
- Press half of the meat-bulgur mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth, compact base layer.
- For the filling, sauté the finely chopped onion in the remaining olive oil until translucent and golden brown. Add the remaining ground meat, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are caramelized.
- Spread the cooked meat and onion mixture evenly over the first layer in the baking dish.
- Take the remaining meat-bulgur mixture and carefully spread it over the meat filling, creating a smooth top layer. Use wet hands to help smooth and seal the top layer.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the kibbi into diamond or square shapes, making sure to cut all the way through to the bottom of the dish.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top of the kibbi.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the edges are slightly darker.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the kibbi to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Serve hot, accompanied by a fresh salad, yogurt, or traditional Middle Eastern side dishes.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ground meat with a moderate fat content for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure your bulgur wheat is thoroughly rinsed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- When mixing the meat and bulgur, knead thoroughly to create a smooth, cohesive mixture that will hold together perfectly.
- Use wet hands when spreading layers to prevent sticking and achieve a smooth surface.
- Make sure to cut the kibbi before baking to help it cook evenly and create beautiful serving portions.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set and make cutting easier.
- For an extra crispy top, you can broil the kibbi for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
