Syrian Kibbeh Hamidiyeh
A unique and flavorful dish featuring bulgur and lamb kibbeh balls simmered in a tangy pomegranate molasses and tamarind sauce, often garnished with pine nuts.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Fine bulgur
- 500 g Ground lamb(divided, 250g for kibbeh, 250g for sauce)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped, divided)
- 1.5 tsp Allspice(divided)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon(divided)
- 2 tsp Salt(divided)
- 1 tsp Black pepper(divided)
- 0.5 cup Pomegranate molasses
- 2 tbsp Tamarind paste
- 6 cups Water
- 0.5 cup Pine nuts(toasted, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for sautéing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the kibbeh dough: Rinse the bulgur and let it soak for 15 minutes. Squeeze out excess water.
- 2
In a food processor, combine 250g ground lamb, half of the chopped onion, 1 tsp allspice, 0.5 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Process until a smooth paste forms.
- 3
Add the soaked and squeezed bulgur to the food processor and process until well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to shape.
- 4
Shape the kibbeh mixture into small, oval balls. You can wet your hands to prevent sticking.
- 5
For the sauce: In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 6
Add the remaining 250g ground lamb to the pot and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- 7
Stir in the remaining 0.5 tsp allspice, 0.5 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper.
- 8
Add the pomegranate molasses, tamarind paste, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- 9
Carefully add the kibbeh balls to the simmering sauce. Cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the kibbeh is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- 10
Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan until golden brown. Garnish the kibbeh with toasted pine nuts before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the kibbeh dough is well-processed to achieve a smooth texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of pomegranate molasses and tamarind paste to your desired tanginess.
- ✓If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Some recipes include a small amount of finely chopped dried apricots for sweetness.