Creating a vegetarian twist on a classic Lebanese favorite, this recipe for Vegetarian Kibbeh With Bulgur is a delightful and flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings for a taste of the Middle East. With its fragrant blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or sharing with loved ones. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious Lebanese-inspired recipe!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and mashed
– 1 cup cooked lentils, drained
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Optional: pine nuts for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Bulgur:** Start by rinsing the bulgur wheat in a fine-mesh sieve under cold water. Let it drain and then place it in a bowl. Cover the bulgur with warm water and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes until it’s softened. Once done, drain any excess water by pressing the bulgur with a spoon.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they are soft and translucent. Next, add the mashed chickpeas, cooked lentils, parsley, mint, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. **Assemble the Kibbeh:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine the softened bulgur wheat with the cooked filling mixture. Mix everything well until it comes together as a cohesive dough.
4. **Shape and Bake:** Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. Take a portion of the bulgur mixture and shape it into small oval or round patties. You can also stuff the kibbeh with a spoonful of the filling if desired. Place the shaped kibbeh in the greased baking dish. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the kibbeh is cooked through and golden brown.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once out of the oven, let the kibbeh cool slightly before serving. Garnish with pine nuts for an extra crunch and visual appeal. Pair this Vegetarian Kibbeh With Bulgur with a side of fresh salad, yogurt, or tahini sauce. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Lebanese-inspired dish!
This Vegetarian Kibbeh With Bulgur recipe offers a wonderful meatless alternative to a traditional Lebanese dish while still capturing the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. Embrace the warm and inviting flavors of this recipe as you share it with family and friends, making it a staple in your cozy home dining experiences. Happy cooking and savoring the tastes of Lebanon!
