Baked Kibbe
Baked Kibbe is a savory Middle Eastern dish featuring spiced ground meat combined with soaked wheat, baked to golden perfection, with crunchy pine nuts and a buttery finish. Perfect for hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the wheat and soak it in clear water for at least 30 minutes.
- Grind the meat again with the onion, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ground meat mixture thoroughly with the soaked wheat.
- Grease a shallow baking pan and place a layer of the mixture in it.
- Sprinkle pine nuts over the first layer.
- Add another layer of the mixture on top.
- Dot butter on top of the layered mixture.
- Make a hole in the center of the mixture about the size of a quarter.
- Bake in a hot oven at 425°F until the meat is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like allspice or cinnamon to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, try substituting the meat with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils. Ensure the wheat is well-soaked to achieve a cohesive texture in your kibbe. Also, if you have pine nuts on hand, they add a lovely crunch, but you can substitute them with chopped walnuts if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Kibbe is delicious served with a side of yogurt sauce or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Cheeze-Sausage Appetizers for a festive meal. Consider serving it alongside warm pita bread and a selection of dips, such as hummus or baba ganoush, for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Baked Kibbe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Kibbe contains roughly 674 calories, with 31g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 675mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Baked Kibbe?
Yes, Baked Kibbe freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
What can I use instead of wheat?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the fine wheat with quinoa or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure to adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly, as these alternatives may absorb moisture differently than wheat.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the meat mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy sauce or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).