Kibbeh Musharabeh (Syrian Bulgur and Meat Porridge)
A comforting and hearty porridge-like dish made with fine bulgur, ground lamb or beef, and aromatic spices. It's a traditional dish often served during colder months or for special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Fine bulgur
- 1 lb Ground lamb or beef
- 1 large Onion(finely grated or minced)
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 6-8 cups Water or broth
- 2 tbsp Butter or ghee
- 1 tbsp Dried mint(optional, for serving)
- for serving Yogurt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the fine bulgur under cold water and drain well. Place it in a large bowl.
💡 Tip: Rinsing helps to remove excess starch. - 2
In a separate bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
💡 Tip: Using your hands ensures even distribution of spices and onion. - 3
Add the meat mixture to the bulgur. Knead the mixture vigorously for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes sticky and cohesive. This is crucial for the kibbeh texture.
💡 Tip: The kneading process helps to bind the bulgur and meat, preventing it from falling apart during cooking. - 4
Bring the water or broth to a boil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Gradually add the bulgur-meat mixture, stirring constantly to break it up into small pieces and prevent clumping.
💡 Tip: Start with 6 cups of liquid and add more as needed to achieve a porridge-like consistency. - 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for at least 1 hour, or until the bulgur is fully cooked and the mixture has thickened to a porridge consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld. - 6
Stir in the butter or ghee until melted and incorporated.
💡 Tip: Butter adds richness and a smooth finish. - 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
💡 Tip: The dish should be savory and well-spiced. - 8
Serve hot, ladled into bowls. Garnish with dried mint (if using) and a dollop of yogurt.
💡 Tip: Yogurt provides a cooling contrast to the warm, spiced porridge.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of the bulgur is important; fine bulgur is essential for the right texture.
- ✓Don't skip the kneading step; it's vital for the kibbeh's structure.
- ✓This dish can be made ahead and reheated, adding a little more liquid if it becomes too thick.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include finely chopped nuts like pine nuts or almonds for added texture.
- A pinch of nutmeg can be added along with the other spices for a different flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth, adding more vegetables like finely diced carrots or zucchini.