Prep Time 10 Min
Cook Time 60 Min
Servings6 servings People
Looking for a comforting, flavorful snack that brings a taste of the Middle East to your kitchen? Fried kibbeh—soft, fragrant bulgur and meat balls—makes a perfect appetizer or main dish. Follow these simple steps to cook them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Ingredients
- 2–3 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
- 20 fresh kibbeh balls
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for freezing version)
- 20 frozen kibbeh balls
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a deep, heavy‑bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it reaches 350°F–375°F.
- Add the fresh kibbeh one at a time, being careful not to crowd the pan. Let them float freely to ensure even cooking.
- Fry for 3–5 minutes per piece, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove each kibbeh with a slotted spoon and set on a large plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.
- For frozen kibbeh: Heat the oil to the same temperature.
- Soak the frozen kibbeh in room temperature water for a few minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add them to the hot oil one by one, letting them cook unchanged.
- Fry for 3–5 minutes per piece until golden and crisp.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Chef’s Tips
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil’s temperature between 350°F and 375°F. If it drops below 325°F, the kibbeh will absorb too much oil.
- Never overload the pot; give each ball space to sizzle. This prevents uneven browning.
- Let the kibbeh rest on paper towels for a few minutes after frying to drain excess oil and keep them from getting soggy.
- Keep extra kibbeh chilled during serving to maintain crispness.
FAQ
- How long does it take to fry kibbeh? Approximately 3–5 minutes per ball, depending on your oil’s temperature.
- Can I freeze cooked kibbeh? Yes, but fry them from frozen after a short defrost period for best results.
- What is kibbeh? A traditional Middle Eastern dish made from bulgur and minced meat, often filled or stuffed and then fried, baked, or boiled.
