Baked Lebanese Pumpkin Kibbi Recipe
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine with this exquisite Baked Lebanese Pumpkin Kibbi, a dish that marries the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the wholesome texture of bulgur wheat and the delightful crunch of nuts. Perfect as an appetizer, this vibrant dish not only pleases the palate but also brings a touch of color to your table, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 1, peeled and diced |
| Bulgur wheat | 1 cup, organic |
| Whole wheat flour | 3 tablespoons, organic |
| Sea salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | A pinch |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon |
| Spinach leaves (Palak) | 1 cup |
| Onions | 2, peeled and thinly chopped |
| Walnuts or pine nuts | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Red chili flakes | 1 teaspoon |
| All spice powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Preparation and Cooking Times
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 60 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
To begin the delightful preparation of your Baked Lebanese Pumpkin Kibbi, start by dicing the pumpkin into small cubes. Place the diced pumpkin in a pot, adding just enough water to cover it, and cook over medium heat until it becomes tender and mushy. Once cooked, strain any excess water and mash the pumpkin until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin with bulgur wheat, whole wheat flour, sea salt, a pinch of black pepper powder, and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Using either a spoon or your hands, mix these ingredients until they form a cohesive dough-like consistency, ensuring everything is well incorporated. This delicious kibbi dough is now ready for assembly.
Next, take a heavy-bottomed pan and heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent and aromatic. Incorporate the fresh spinach leaves and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Season this mixture with salt, red chili flakes, all spice powder, and either walnuts or pine nuts. Mix everything thoroughly and then turn off the heat. Add the lemon juice to the mixture, stirring well to combine the flavors.
Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) to prepare for baking. Divide the pumpkin kibbi dough into two equal portions. Grease a shallow baking tray with olive oil to prevent sticking. Firmly spread the first half of the kibbi dough evenly over the bottom of the tray, creating a base layer.
Next, evenly distribute the prepared stuffing mixture over this base layer of kibbi. Take the remaining half of the kibbi dough and spread it on top of the filling, ensuring it covers the stuffing entirely. To achieve a smooth finish, wet your palms and gently press down to flatten the surface.
Using a sharp knife, score the top layer into diamond patterns, which will not only add visual appeal but also make it easier to cut into portions later. Drizzle a little olive oil evenly over the top to enhance flavor and promote a golden crust.
Bake in your preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit) for approximately 30 minutes, or until the kibbi is cooked through and has developed a beautiful golden-brown color.
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it incredibly versatile for entertaining or enjoying with family.
Serving Suggestions
For an authentic Middle Eastern experience, serve your Lebanese Pumpkin Kibbi alongside freshly baked pita bread and a side of roasted red pepper hummus. This combination not only complements the flavors of the kibbi but also adds a delightful variety to your appetizer spread. Enjoy this rich, satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your home!
