Lebanese Kibbeh Nayyeh With Fresh Mint and Olive Oil

Name: Lebanese Kibbeh Nayyeh With Fresh Mint and Olive Oil
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 500g ground lamb or beef; 1 cup fine bulgur; 1 medium onion; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Fresh mint leaves; Extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp sumac powder; 1/2 tsp ground allspice; 1 small onion; Fresh mint sprigs

A traditional Lebanese raw meat dish enhanced with fresh herbs and spices.

Kibbeh Nayyeh is a classic Middle Eastern dish featuring ground lamb or beef mixed with bulgur, herbs, and spices. Served with fresh mint and a drizzle of olive oil for a refreshing and aromatic delight.

1 h 15 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Kibbeh Mixture

500g ground lamb or beef

very fresh

1 cup fine bulgur

soaked and drained

1 medium onion

finely grated

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Garnish

Fresh mint leaves

roughly chopped

Extra virgin olive oil

for drizzling

For the Spice Mix

1 tsp sumac powder

1/2 tsp ground allspice

For the Onions & Mint Side

1 small onion

sliced thinly

Fresh mint sprigs

for serving

Preparation

Preparing the Bulgur

Rinse the bulgur

Rinse the bulgur under cold water.

Soak the bulgur

Let it soak in water for 15 minutes, then drain well.

Drain thoroughly

Squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel.

Mixing the Kibbeh Mixture

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked bulgur, grated onion, spices, salt, and pepper.

Mix until smooth

Mix thoroughly using your hands until well combined and smooth.

⚠ Avoid overworking the meat; it should remain tender. 💡 Use icy water while mixing to keep the meat cold and maintain texture.

Chill the mixture

Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes for better firmness.

Cooking Process

Shape the Kibbeh

Use your hands to shape the mixture into a smooth, thin layer on a platter, or form small patties.

Garnish with Mint and Oil

Generously sprinkle fresh mint leaves over the kibbeh and drizzle with olive oil right before serving.

Serve Immediately

Best served immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors.

Plating & Serving