Kibbeh Labanieh
A comforting and flavorful dish of bulgur and meat dumplings (kibbeh) simmered in a tangy yogurt sauce, often served with rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Fine bulgur
- 1 lb Lean ground lamb or beef
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 0.5 tsp Cinnamon
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 4 cups Plain yogurt
- 3 tbsp Cornstarch or flour
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 0.5 cup Pine nuts(toasted, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or ghee(for sautéing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse bulgur and squeeze out excess water. Combine with ground meat, chopped onion, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Knead until well combined to form the kibbeh mixture.
💡 Tip: Ensure the mixture is smooth and cohesive. - 2
Divide the kibbeh mixture into small portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then flatten slightly and create a hollow in the center. Fill with a small amount of seasoned ground meat (optional, for extra flavor) and seal to form a dumpling.
- 3
In a large pot, whisk together the yogurt, cornstarch (or flour), and a little cold water until smooth. Stir in the minced garlic. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
💡 Tip: Don't let the yogurt boil vigorously, as it can curdle. - 4
Carefully add the prepared kibbeh dumplings to the simmering yogurt sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the kibbeh is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes - 5
While the kibbeh is cooking, heat vegetable oil or ghee in a small pan and sauté the remaining chopped onion until golden brown. Add this to the yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 6
Serve the Kibbeh Labanieh hot, traditionally with plain rice or vermicelli rice. Garnish with toasted pine nuts.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother kibbeh mixture, you can process the bulgur and meat in a food processor.
- ✓If the yogurt sauce becomes too thick, add a little hot water to reach the desired consistency.
- ✓Ensure the kibbeh dumplings are fully submerged in the yogurt sauce while cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of dried mint to the yogurt sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Some recipes include a small amount of finely chopped walnuts inside the kibbeh filling.