Savor the rich and aromatic flavors of the Middle East with Kibbee Sineea, a delectable baked spiced kibbee dish that layers ground beef or lamb with a fragrant blend of cinnamon, allspice, and cumin. This authentic recipe combines tender fine bulgur wheat with a savory meat filling studded with toasted pine nuts, all encased in a perfectly golden top layer. Scored into intricate diamond patterns and drizzled with olive oil and butter, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, Kibbee Sineea pairs beautifully with tangy yogurt or a crisp salad for a delightful and satisfying meal. Perfectly balancing textures and spices, this baked classic is your ticket to a warm and comforting culinary experience!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the bulgur in a bowl and rinse it under cold water. Drain and then soak the bulgur in 3/4 cup of water for 10 minutes or until softened. Drain any excess water and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked bulgur, 1 pound of ground beef or lamb, grated onion, ground allspice, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. This is your kibbee mixture.
To prepare the filling, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the remaining 1/2 pound of ground beef or lamb to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
Stir in the toasted pine nuts and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from the heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Divide the kibbee mixture into two equal portions.
Press one portion of the kibbee mixture evenly onto the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
Spread the cooked filling evenly over the bottom layer of kibbee.
Take the second portion of kibbee mixture and flatten it into small portions in your hands, then place them over the filling to create a top layer. Gently press and smooth the top layer to seal the filling inside.
Using a sharp knife, score the kibbee into diamond or square patterns, cutting through the top layer but not all the way through to the bottom.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil and the melted butter evenly over the top of the kibbee.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the kibbee is cooked through.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a side of yogurt or salad, if desired.
Calories |
3443 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 237.9 g | 305% | |
| Saturated Fat | 79.6 g | 398% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 561 mg | 187% | |
| Sodium | 4106 mg | 179% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 194.1 g | 71% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 45.6 g | 163% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.7 g | ||
| Protein | 148.8 g | 298% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.5 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 278 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 21.6 mg | 120% | |
| Potassium | 3421 mg | 73% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.