Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBereket Turkish RestaurantKibbe (icli Kofte) Recipe

Kibbe (icli Kofte) Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

Savory bulgur shells filled with seasoned beef and walnuts, a classic Turkish delight.

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Ingredients

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For the Kibbe Shells

For the Filling

For Frying

Method

Preparation of Kibbe Shells

  1. 1

    Soak Bulgur

    In a bowl, combine bulgur wheat and hot water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes until the bulgur is soft.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Mixture

    Once the bulgur is softened, add ground beef, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon to the bulgur. Mix well until fully combined.

  3. 3

    Shape the Shells

    Wet your hands and take a small amount of the mixture to form a small ball. Use your thumb to create a hollow shell, ensuring the walls are evenly thick.

Preparation of Filling

  1. 4

    Cook the Filling

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add ground beef, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Cook until the beef is browned.

  2. 5

    Add Walnuts

    Stir in the chopped walnuts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Assembling and Cooking

  1. 6

    Fill the Shells

    Take each bulgur shell and fill it with a spoonful of the meat and walnut filling. Pinch the opening to seal the shell.

  2. 7

    Fry the Kibbe

    In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the filled kibbe in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

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