Lebanese 7-Spice Kibbeh

Instructions

Make “Shell”:

1. Soak bulgur for 30 minutes in cold water then strain
2. Put bulgur, 2 tsp lemon juice, 1-1/2 lb ground beef, onion, 2 tsp salt & seasoning in the bowl of a food processor until ingredients are full combined and form into a ball
3. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to fill

Make Filling:

1. Heat sauté pan over heat and add extra virgin olive oil
2. Add onions and sauté until soft and translucent
3. Add 1/2 lb ground beef, salt and spices and sauté until beef is cooked through
4. Take off heat and stir in lemon juice and pine nuts
5. Cook a tbsp size of the filling in a sauté pan to taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Form the Kibbeh:

1. Take about 2 tbsp of “shell” mixture and form it into a football shape
2. Make a hole with your thumb, stuff some filling inside and close up the football shape. Repeat until you have used all the mixture. You should have about 2 dozen kibbeh
3. You can cook them immediately but it helps to chill them in the refrigerator for about an hour first to ensure they hold up well when frying

Fry the Kibbeh:

1. Heat about 2” of oil in a heavy bottomed pot to 350 degrees. Be sure to have a pan at least 5-6” high so the oil doesn’t splash out of the pan
2. Carefully lower 2-3 kibbeh at a time in the oil and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally for even frying. They should be a nice deep brown color
3. When ready, carefully remove from oil with slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to remove some of the oil. Best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer!