Authentic Syrian Kibbeh Labanieh Recipe – Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

A traditional Aleppan dish that combines meat, yogurt, and heritage in every bite.

Kibbeh Labanieh is one of the most beloved dishes in Syrian cuisine, especially in Aleppo. This hearty and comforting meal combines meat-stuffed bulgur dumplings with a creamy yogurt sauce, delivering a rich, tangy, and flavorful experience. Here’s a simple guide to preparing this dish at home—even if you’re not a professional cook.

Ingredients:

For the Kibbeh dough:

• 2 cups fine bulgur (soaked)

• 250g ground beef or lamb

• 1 small onion, grated

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the filling:

• 200g ground beef or lamb

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses (optional)

• Salt, black pepper, allspice

For the yogurt sauce:

• 1 kg plain yogurt (preferably full-fat)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with a little cold water)

• 1 egg (optional—for stability)

• Salt to taste

• 1 tbsp dried mint (for garnish)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp ghee or butter

Step-by-Step Instructions:

 1. Prepare the Filling:

Sauté chopped onion in a bit of ghee or oil. Add the ground meat and season with salt, pepper, and allspice. Cook until browned, then add pomegranate molasses if using. Let it cool.

 2. Make the Kibbeh Shell:

Mix soaked bulgur, meat, grated onion, salt, and pepper. Knead until it forms a dough-like consistency. Wet your hands to prevent sticking.

3. Shape the Kibbeh:

Take small portions of the dough and form balls. Hollow each ball with your finger, fill it with the meat mixture, and seal. Try to keep the kibbeh thin and even.

 4. Cook the Yogurt Sauce:

In a pot, whisk the yogurt, cornstarch mix, and egg (if using). Stir continuously over medium heat until it starts to boil gently and thicken. Add salt to taste.

 5. Add Kibbeh to Sauce:

Gently drop the stuffed kibbeh into the boiling yogurt sauce. Reduce heat and let them cook for 10–15 minutes, or until firm.

 6. Final Topping:

Fry garlic and dried mint in ghee or butter, then pour over the dish before serving.

Serving Tips

Serve hot with white rice or on its own with fresh pita bread. The contrast of the creamy yogurt and spiced meat is simply irresistible.