Kibe, or Brazilian Kibbeh, is a tasty blend of Lebanese and Brazilian cuisine. You'd find it as a popular street food, often enjoyed at beach bars. Made of *fine bulgur wheat* and seasoned *ground beef*, it's shaped into ovals and fried until golden. Ever tried it with a squeeze of lime or tahini sauce? You soak the bulgur, sauté onions, and mix in lots of herbs like mint and parsley for extra flavor. This snack is not just delicious; it's also packed with protein and fiber! Want to explore how to make it? There's more to discover! ��

History

Kibe, or Brazilian kibbeh, has a rich history rooted in the arrival of Lebanese immigrants to Brazil between 1885 and 1933, when over 130,000 settled in the country.

Can you imagine how they brought their culinary traditions with them? The dish evolved from using lamb to featuring *ground beef*, making it more suited to Brazilian tastes.

Today, kibe is a popular street food, often enjoyed at beach bars and social events. Some might even prepare it using techniques akin to those found in charcoal smoking for enhanced flavors.

The raw version, known as *kibe cru*, is similar to steak tartare and shows a unique twist on traditional recipes.

This dish is a true fusion of cultures, with over 7 million Brazilians claiming Lebanese descent.

Isn't it fascinating how food can connect us across different backgrounds?

Recipe

Kibe, also known as kibbeh, is a beloved dish in Brazilian cuisine, showcasing rich flavors and a delightful texture. This popular appetizer features a combination of bulgur wheat and seasoned ground beef, shaped into oval forms and fried to golden perfection. Often served with lime wedges and tahini sauce, kibe isn't only a tasty snack but also a great addition to any gathering or meal.

Its versatility is akin to the 3-in-1 functionality of panini presses that can enhance your cooking experience with quick and delicious options. The preparation of kibe involves soaking bulgur wheat to achieve the perfect consistency, and the filling is made by sautéing fresh ingredients that enhance the meat's flavor. The process of shaping and frying the kibe requires some practice, but the end result is worth the effort.

This dish embodies the essence of Brazilian cooking, merging Middle Eastern influences with local tastes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fine bulgur wheat
• 3 cups boiling water
• 2 small or 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• 25 mint leaves, chopped
• 900 g (2 lbs) ground beef
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for sautéing and frying

To prepare kibe, start by soaking the bulgur wheat in boiling water for 30 minutes until it absorbs the liquid and softens. While the bulgur is soaking, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until they're translucent.

Add in the parsley and mint leaves, cooking for a few more minutes. Mix this sautéed vegetable mixture with the browned ground beef, seasoning it with cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Once combined, shape the bulgur into golf ball-sized portions, flatten them, fill with the beef mixture, seal, and form into elongated ovals.

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F, then fry the kibe until they're dark brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

When cooking kibe, it's important to verify that the oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve that crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil. If you want a healthier option, consider baking the kibe instead of frying them, which can still yield a delicious result.

Additionally, feel free to adjust the seasoning and herbs to suit your taste, and don't hesitate to experiment with different fillings, such as lamb or vegetables, for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

As a beloved street food, kibe captures the essence of Brazilian cuisine with its unique blend of flavors and textures. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden exterior filled with lean ground beef mixed with bulgur wheat and spices.

With the right tools, like a high-quality Habor digital meat thermometer, you can guarantee your meat is cooked to perfection, enhancing both taste and food safety. Doesn't that sound delicious?

You can enjoy kibe in many ways—whether you choose to deep fry it for a crunchy treat or savor raw kibbeh for a fresh experience. Adding fresh mint leaves enhances its flavor, making it even more tempting.

This traditional dish isn't just tasty; it's also rich in protein and fiber, giving you a hearty snack.