Cherry Kibbeh – Recipe and Preparation Method

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Cherry Kibbeh – Recipe and Preparation Method

Cherry kibbeh (Kibbeh Karaz) is one of the many variations of kibbeh popular in the Levant, especially in Aleppine cuisine. This dish is a staple during Ramadan Iftar and festive gatherings in Aleppo due to its unique taste and nutritional richness. Here’s how to prepare this traditional and flavorful dish.

Ingredients for Cherry Kibbeh

Cherry Kibbeh

 

For the Kibbeh Dough:

  • 4 cups of finely minced lamb
  • 2 cups of coarse bulgur
  • Warm water (as needed)
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh mint
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of white pepper

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup of cherries
  • Butter (as needed)
  • 1 tablespoon of pine nuts

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preparing the Kibbeh Dough

  1. Place the coarse bulgur in a deep bowl and cover it with warm water. Let it soak for approximately 6 hours.
  2. Drain the bulgur thoroughly and mix it with the minced lamb, chopped onion, and fresh mint. Combine well until evenly mixed.
  3. Grind the mixture in a kibbeh grinder or food processor until it forms a cohesive dough.
  4. Add salt and white pepper to the dough, mixing thoroughly.
  5. Divide the kibbeh dough into equal-sized portions and shape each one into an oval or egg-like shape.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

  1. In a medium-sized pan over medium heat, melt a small amount of butter.
  2. Add the cherries and sauté for about 10 minutes until they soften.
  3. Stir in the pine nuts and mix well. The filling is now ready.

Step 3: Assembling and Frying the Kibbeh

  1. Heat an adequate amount of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat until hot.
  2. Carefully fry the kibbeh pieces in the hot oil, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown.
  3. Remove the fried kibbeh and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Filling the Kibbeh

  1. Slice each fried kibbeh piece in half lengthwise.
  2. Add a generous amount of the cherry and pine nut filling to the open halves.
  3. Repeat this process until all kibbeh pieces are filled.

Serving Cherry Kibbeh

Arrange the filled kibbeh pieces on a serving platter and serve them warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or yogurt dip, making it a perfect addition to any Iftar or dinner table.

Bon appétit! 🌟

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