Kibbeh Nayeh
A traditional Lebanese delicacy, Kibbeh Nayeh is a finely textured raw lamb and bulgur dish, seasoned with spices and served with olive oil. It's a testament to the freshness of ingredients and the trust between the cook and the diner.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Very fresh, high-quality lamb leg(Must be sushi-grade or from a trusted butcher. Trimmed of all fat and sinew.)
- 100 g Fine bulgur wheat(Look for 'fine' or 'extra fine' grade for the smoothest texture.)
- 1 medium Yellow onion(Peeled and roughly chopped.)
- 1 tsp Baharat spice blend(Or a mix of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon if Baharat is unavailable.)
- for garnish Fresh mint leaves(Reserved for serving.)
- for serving Extra virgin olive oil(A good quality, fruity olive oil is recommended.)
- to taste Salt(Fine sea salt is preferred.)
- 2-3 tbsp Ice water(Optional, to help achieve a smoother paste.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the bulgur: Place the fine bulgur in a bowl and cover with lukewarm water. Let it soak for about 10 minutes, or until softened but not mushy. Drain thoroughly and squeeze out as much excess water as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. Set aside.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Process the lamb and onion: If using a meat grinder, grind the trimmed lamb twice through the finest plate. If pounding, place the lamb in a sturdy mortar and pestle and pound until it forms a very smooth, paste-like consistency. In a food processor, pulse the peeled and roughly chopped onion until finely minced, then add the lamb and process until a smooth paste forms. Scrape down the sides as needed.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Combine and knead the kibbeh mixture: In a large bowl, combine the processed lamb and onion paste with the squeezed bulgur, Baharat spice, and salt to taste. Using your hands, knead the mixture vigorously for at least 5-10 minutes. The mixture should become very smooth, cohesive, and slightly sticky. If it feels too stiff, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water to help achieve a smoother texture. The consistency should be like a firm dough.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up. This step is crucial for handling.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 5
Shape and serve: To serve traditionally, take the chilled kibbeh mixture and spread it evenly onto a serving platter. Use your hands, moistened slightly with water or olive oil, to smooth the surface. Create shallow indentations or grooves on the surface using your fingertips or the back of a spoon. Drizzle generously with good quality extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, sliced onions, and fresh herbs.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The absolute freshness and quality of the lamb are paramount for Kibbeh Nayeh. Use only the best, sushi-grade, or impeccably sourced lamb.
- ✓Keep all ingredients and the final mixture extremely cold during preparation. This ensures the best texture and food safety.
- ✓A food processor can be used for the lamb and onion, but a traditional mortar and pestle can yield a superior texture if time permits.
- ✓Taste and adjust seasoning (salt and spices) before chilling, as flavors will meld further.
- ✓Kibbeh Nayeh is traditionally served as a mezze or a special occasion dish, often for Sunday lunch.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a different texture, the kibbeh mixture can be shaped into small balls or patties and served raw.
- Increase the amount of Baharat or add other spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
- Some variations include finely minced parsley or scallions in the mixture.