Kibbeh Nabulsy (Lebanese Meatball Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Kibbeh nabulsy is a traditional Lebanese dish made by stuffing grape leaves with a mixture of ground meat, bulgur, and spices. The grape leaves are then rolled and cooked in a flavorful broth.

Ingredients

Meats

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1/2 pound ground beef

Grains

• 1 cup bulgur
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

Filling Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Grape Leaves

• 20-24 fresh grape leaves

Kibbeh Nabulsy Sauce (optional)

Mix the following:

• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sumac

Recipe Steps

1. Prepare Grape Leaves

Soak grape leaves in water for at least 30 minutes to make them pliable.

2. Make Filling

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Mix in ground lamb, ground beef, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin.

3. Cook Filling

Add bulgur to the pan with the meat mixture and stir well. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is well combined.

4. Prepare Grape Leaves for Stuffing

Remove grape leaves from water and pat dry.

5. Assemble Kibbeh Nabulsy

Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface, with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of the leaf. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the leaf into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

6. Cook Kibbeh Nabulsy

Place assembled kibbeh nabulsy in a large pot or Dutch oven with