Pantry Friendly Spiced Kibbe

 

3/4 cup uncooked bulgur

1 1/2 cups boiling water (plus a smidge more)

1 cup (about 8 ounces or 1/2 pound) ground beef or lamb

1 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon red chile flakes

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon dried mint, oregano, or dill

Freshly ground black pepper

Olive Oil

 

Put the bulgur in a medium-sized glass bowl and pour in the boiling water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a plate and set aside to steam until the water is absorbed and grains are al dente, about 20 to 25 minutes. Drain any additional water from the grains, and cool. In a large mixing bowl, use your hands to combine the ground beef, bulgur, and all the spices. When the mixture is well-combined, form 6 small, equally proportioned patties and set aside. Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Cook the kibbe patties until golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from the heat and serve immediately. Serve with herbed or plain yogurt.