Discover how to make authentic Middle Eastern kubbe with a savoury meat filling encased in a crispy bulgur shell.
Prep
45 min
Cook
20 min
Total
95 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
Medium
Instructions
Prepare the bulgur
Soak the bulgur in water for 30 minutes, then drain and squeeze out excess water.
Pro tip: Use a fine sieve to drain bulgur efficiently.
Make the shell mixture
Combine soaked bulgur with ground meat. Season with salt and mix until smooth.
Pro tip: Chill the mixture for easier handling.
Prepare the filling
In a pan, sauté onion until translucent. Add meat, spices, and pine nuts. Cook until meat is browned.
Pro tip: Cool the filling before assembling kubbe to prevent it from breaking.
Shape the kubbe
Take a small amount of shell mixture, flatten it in your palm, add filling, and shape into an oval.
Pro tip: Wet hands to prevent sticking.
Chill the kubbe
Place shaped kubbe on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Pro tip: This step helps maintain shape during frying.
Fry the kubbe
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry kubbe in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
Pro tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fine bulgur for better texture.
- Chill the dough to make shaping easier.
- Wet your hands to prevent sticking when shaping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kubbe?
Kubbe is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made of a bulgur and meat shell filled with spiced ground meat.
How do you make kubbe?
Kubbe involves preparing a bulgur shell, a spiced meat filling, shaping the kubbe, and frying it until golden brown.
What is the best filling for kubbe?
The traditional filling includes ground beef or lamb, onions, spices like allspice and cinnamon, and optionally pine nuts.
Can kubbe be baked instead of fried?
Yes, kubbe can be baked at 375°F (190°C) until golden, though it may not be as crispy as fried.
How many calories are in kubbe?
One serving of kubbe contains approximately 300 calories.
What can I serve with kubbe?
Kubbe pairs well with tahini sauce, cucumber yogurt dip, and a light salad.
Can kubbe be frozen?
Yes, kubbe can be frozen before or after frying for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
300
Calories
18g
Protein
17g
Fat
20g
Carbs
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