Brazilian
👍 Beginner Friendly
40 mineasy
BrazilianSnack
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsKibe Assado is a beloved Brazilian adaptation of the Middle Eastern kibbeh, baked rather than fried for a healthier twist. This savory dish combines finely ground beef with bulgur wheat, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, creating layers of rich flavor and satisfying texture. The mixture is pressed into a baking dish, scored into diamond shapes, and baked until the top develops a beautiful golden-brown crust while the interior remains moist and tender. Popular at Brazilian gatherings, parties, and as an afternoon snack, kibe assado is traditionally served with lemon wedges and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. This versatile dish works equally well as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, embodying the fusion of cultures that makes Brazilian cuisine so unique and delicious.
Instructions
step by step0/9 done
Rinse bulgur wheat in cold water and soak in 2 cups of warm water for 20 minutes until softened. Drain thoroughly and squeeze out excess water.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, soaked bulgur, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley.
Add cumin, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 casserole dish with olive oil.
Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions. Press one portion evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the first layer. Press the second portion of meat mixture on top, creating a smooth, even surface.
Using a sharp knife, score the top in a diamond pattern, cutting about halfway through the mixture. Place a small piece of butter in the center of each diamond.
Brush the top generously with olive oil. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Cut along the scored lines and serve warm with lemon wedges.
Kibe Assado - Baked Spiced Beef and Bulgur
4.8 (34)
A traditional Brazilian-Lebanese fusion dish featuring seasoned ground beef and bulgur wheat baked to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside.
medium
1h
8 servings
Ingredients
0 of 13 checked
Main
- 500 grams ground-beef, finely ground
- 1 1/2 cups barley, rinsed and soaked
Aromatics
- 1 pieces onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs
- 3 tablespoons parsley, fresh, finely chopped
Spices
- 1 teaspoons cumin, ground
- 1 teaspoons paprika, ground
- 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, ground
- 1/4 teaspoons cayenne, ground (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Fat
- 3 tablespoons olive-oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Garnish
- 1 pieces lemon, cut into wedges
Chef Tips
expert advice•For best results, use finely ground beef (90% lean) to avoid excess grease.
•The bulgur should be soaked until tender but not mushy - squeeze out all excess water to prevent a soggy texture.
•You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
•For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the meat mixture.
•Some Brazilian families add a layer of sautéed onions between the two meat layers for extra flavor.
•If you prefer a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add a minced jalapeño to the mixture.
•Leftover kibe assado makes excellent sandwiches the next day.
•For a traditional presentation, garnish with mint leaves and serve with tahini sauce or plain yogurt on the side.
