Quibe (Brazilian Kibbeh) – A Tasty Journey into Brazilian Cuisine
Quibe is a delicious and traditional dish that has its roots in Middle Eastern cuisine but has found a special place in Brazilian culture. This savory food is often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack and is loved for its unique flavors and satisfying texture. The history of quibe dates back centuries, and it is said to have been brought to Brazil by Lebanese immigrants in the early 20th century. Today, it is a popular street food that can be found at many local eateries. Its combination of bulgur wheat, meat, and savory spices makes it a crowd favorite at parties, family gatherings, and festivals!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Bulgur wheat | 1 cup |
| Ground beef or lamb | 500 grams |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Mint leaves (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Cinnamon (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
For those who prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground meat with chopped vegetables or mushrooms mixed with spices. This will give you a delightful vegetarian quibe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by soaking the bulgur wheat in cold water for about 30 minutes until it softens.
- Drain the bulgur well, squeezing out any excess water. Set it aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked bulgur, ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped mint leaves, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
- Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until well combined. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed!
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil. Press half of the quibe mixture into the bottom of the dish evenly.
- Spread a layer of your choice of filling (e.g., more meat or chopped veggies) on top of the pressed mixture, then cover it with the remaining quibe mixture.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and use a knife to score the top of the quibe into diamond shapes.
- Bake in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your delicious quibe!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sodium | 200mg | 9% |
Tips and Tricks
To make your quibe extra delicious, try these tips:
- Adding a bit of cumin can enhance the flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly in the baking dish for a better texture.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t skip soaking the bulgur, as it helps develop the right texture.
- Be careful not to overbake, or the quibe can become dry.
FAQs
What is Quibe?
Quibe, or Brazilian Kibbeh, is a Middle Eastern dish made with bulgur wheat and ground meat, often flavored with spices and herbs.
Can I make Quibe vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with vegetable fillings or mushrooms.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover quibe can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
Can Quibe be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked quibe for up to two months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
What types of meat can I use?
You can use ground beef, lamb, or even chicken in your quibe recipe, depending on your taste preferences.
What can I serve with Quibe?
Quibe goes well with a fresh salad, yogurt sauce, or pita bread.
How spicy is Quibe?
The spice level of quibe can vary. You can adjust it by using more or less black pepper, or by adding chili flakes for heat!
Is Quibe gluten-free?
Since bulgur wheat is not gluten-free, traditional quibe is not suitable for gluten-free diets. However, you can use quinoa as a substitute for a gluten-free version.
How do I know when Quibe is done cooking?
The quibe is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy. You can also use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean from the center.
What’s the best way to reheat Quibe?
To reheat, you can use an oven or microwave. For the oven, bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I add cheese to my Quibe?
Yes! Adding cheese can enhance the flavor. Just sprinkle some feta or mozzarella on top before baking.
Now that you have the complete recipe for Quibe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and impress your friends and family with this amazing dish. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the memories that come with every bite!
