Zgharta-Style Kibbeh – Recipe for Zgharta-Style Kibbeh – How to Prepare Zgharta-Style Kibbeh

Zgharta-Style Kibbeh – Recipe for Zgharta-Style Kibbeh – How to Prepare Zgharta-Style Kibbeh

Named after the city of Zgharta in northern Lebanon, this type of kibbeh is a traditional dish enjoyed for its delicious taste and high nutritional value. It's also easy to prepare, taking around 40 minutes to cook. Here’s a recipe for four servings, and we hope you enjoy this Lebanese specialty.

Ingredients for Zgharta-Style Kibbeh:

Kibbeh Dough Ingredients:

• 1 kilogram of ground beef
• 5 cups of bulgur
• 1 medium onion
• 1 teaspoon of fresh basil
• Cinnamon (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon of fresh marjoram
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• Salt (to taste)

Filling Ingredients:

• 400 grams of lamb fat
• 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil (for brushing)

How to Prepare Zgharta-Style Kibbeh:

1. Prepare the kibbeh dough:

   • In a food processor, combine the ground beef, salt, and chopped onion. Blend well until combined.
   • Add the bulgur, marjoram, basil, black pepper, cinnamon, and additional salt as needed. Blend until a smooth kibbeh dough forms. (A kibbeh grinder is recommended for better texture).

2. Prepare the filling:

   • In the food processor, blend the lamb fat, sweet paprika, and onion until the filling mixture is smooth and well-combined.

3. Shape the kibbeh:

   • Take portions of the kibbeh dough and shape them into balls, each about the size of an orange. Make an indentation in each ball.
   • Place 2 tablespoons of the filling in each indentation, then seal to form a closed ball.

4. Bake the kibbeh:

   • Lightly brush the kibbeh balls with vegetable oil and place them on a greased baking tray.
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Once heated, bake the kibbeh until fully cooked and golden.

Your Zgharta-style kibbeh is now ready! Serve it with a side of salad, fattoush, or tabbouleh, and enjoy this flavorful Lebanese dish with family or guests. Bon appétit!