Craving a taste of authentic Egyptian street food? Look no further than Chicken Kibbeh, a crispy, flavorful delight that's surprisingly easy to make at home. This beloved dish combines the satisfying crunch of a deep-fried exterior with a tender, juicy chicken filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Forget complicated recipes; our version simplifies the traditional preparation, making it accessible for even novice cooks. Imagine the aroma of sizzling spices and the satisfying crunch with each bite – a truly unforgettable culinary experience awaits.
Forget takeout! This recipe breaks down the process of making delicious Chicken Kibbeh into manageable, step-by-step instructions. From preparing the flavorful chicken filling to mastering the art of shaping and frying the kibbeh, we guide you through each stage with clear explanations and helpful tips. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this authentic, homemade Egyptian treat – let's get cooking!
Tools Needed
- Sieve
- Mixing bowls
- Pot
- Pan
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Bulgur
- Olive oil: 3-4 tablespoons
- Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Onion
- Garlic
- Minced chicken
- Spices (see recipe for details)
- Capsicum
- Pine nuts
- Chicken breasts
- Lemon: 1 (for zest)
- Vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Bulgur and Chicken Filling
- Wash the bulgur thoroughly with warm water, then soak it for 5 minutes.
- Strain the bulgur using a sieve and squeeze out excess water.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pot. Add minced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Set aside three-quarters of the cooked onion.
- Add minced chicken to the remaining onion in the pot and cook until white.
- Add spices to the chicken mixture and mix well. Turn off the heat.
- In a separate pan, shallow fry capsicum until soft. Add to the chicken mixture.
- Shallow fry pine nuts until golden brown, drain on paper towels, and add to the chicken mixture.
- Allow the chicken mixture to cool for 15-20 minutes.
Step 2. Combine and Chill the Kibbeh Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled chicken mixture, chicken breasts, reserved onion, lemon zest, and spices.
- Mix everything well with your hands, ensuring even distribution. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 3. Shape and Fry the Kibbeh
- Roll the mixture into balls, create an opening with your thumb, and fill with the chicken filling. Seal the kibbeh tightly.
- Fry the kibbeh in hot vegetable oil until golden brown.
Step 4. Serve
- Drain on paper towels and serve.
Read more: Lebanese Kofta Kebabs Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- You can freeze the kibbeh before or after frying for later use.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-600
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 35-45g
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?
While traditionally made with chicken, you can substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef for a similar, albeit slightly different, flavor profile. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
2. How can I make sure my kibbeh stays crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying (it should shimmer). Don't overcrowd the pan, fry in batches, and let the kibbeh drain on a wire rack to remove excess oil. Serve immediately for optimal crispiness.
So there you have it – your very own batch of crispy, flavorful Chicken Kibbeh, ready to impress! This recipe brings a taste of Egypt to your kitchen, proving that authentic and delicious doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy this satisfying street food classic, and don't hesitate to experiment with different spices and herbs to make it your own.