RecipesSyriaSyrian Kibbeh bil Sayniyeh with Pomegranate

Syrian Kibbeh bil Sayniyeh with Pomegranate

A baked kibbeh dish featuring a flavorful bulgur and meat mixture layered with a spiced pomegranate filling, offering a sweet and savory contrast.

Prep Time45 minutes
Cook Time60 minutes
Total Time1 hour 45 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyHard
Syrian Kibbeh bil Sayniyeh with Pomegranate - Syria traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 2 cups Fine bulgur wheat
  • 1 lb Ground lamb
  • 1 lb Ground beef
  • 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
  • 1/2 cup Pomegranate molasses
  • 1 cup Pomegranate seeds
  • 1 tsp Allspice
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1.5 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 4 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Butter(melted)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse the fine bulgur wheat and let it soak in cold water for 20 minutes. Drain thoroughly, squeezing out excess water.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, combine the drained bulgur, ground lamb, ground beef, half of the chopped onions, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a cohesive dough.

  3. 3

    In a separate bowl, mix the remaining chopped onions with pomegranate molasses, pomegranate seeds, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. This is your filling.

  4. 4

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.

  5. 5

    Press half of the kibbeh mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

  6. 6

    Spread the pomegranate filling evenly over the kibbeh base.

  7. 7

    Top with the remaining kibbeh mixture, pressing gently to seal the edges. Score the top into diamond or square shapes.

  8. 8

    Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the kibbeh. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cooked through.

  9. 9

    Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ensure the bulgur is very well-drained to prevent a mushy kibbeh mixture.
  • For a richer flavor, use a mix of lamb and beef, or even add a small amount of ground chicken.
  • Adjust the amount of pomegranate molasses to your preference for sweetness and tanginess.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a layer of thinly sliced onions or pine nuts to the filling for added texture.
  • Serve with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

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