What to Serve with Kibbeh 14 Incredible Side Dishes

When it comes to Middle Eastern cuisine, there’s no doubt that Kibbeh is one of the most popular dishes. It’s a delicious mix of spices and flavors that is perfect for any occasion.

However, finding good sides to serve with Kibbeh can be a bit of a challenge. This is because so many of the recipes online are either too simple or too complicated.

But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I’ve spent the last few months trying out different sides that compliment Kibbeh perfectly. And today, I’m going to share my 14 favorite recipes with you.

So, if you’re looking for some ideas on what to serve with kibbeh, look no further!

Side Dishes For Kibbeh

1. Lebanese cabbage salad
2. Pickled cucumbers
3. Tahini sauce/dips
4. Chickpea salad
5. Greek Tzatziki sauce
6. Rice pilaf
7. Hamud (Syrian mint sauce)
8. Flatbread
9. Eggplant relish
10. Greek salad
11. Mediterranean salad
12. Fattoush
13. Hummus
14. Tabouli

Lebanese cabbage salad

Also known as Malfouf salad is made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions. The salad is then dressed with a lemon vinaigrette made of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.

This salad is the perfect side for kibbeh because it’s light and refreshing. The acidity from the lemon juice will also help to cut through the richness of the kibbeh.

The salad also has a subtle spice from the Lebanese spices, which goes well with the rich flavor of the Kibbeh.

Additionally, this salad provides a crunchy texture which is a contrast to the soft kibbeh.

Pickled cucumbers

These are cucumbers that have been soaked in a vinegar or brine solution. The cucumbers can be either whole or sliced.

Pickled cucumbers are a great side for kibbeh because they provide a crunchy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor.

When selecting cucumbers, make sure to pick ones that are small and firm. If the cucumbers are too large, they will be difficult to pickle.

Tahini sauce/dips

Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It’s a common ingredient in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. The sauce is made by combining tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt.

Tahini sauce is a great side dish for kibbeh because it complements the flavors of the kibbeh ingredients without overwhelming them.

The creamy texture of the sauce helps to balance out the richness of the lamb, and the lemon juice gives the dish a bright acidity that cuts through the fat.

Tahini also has a nutty flavor that works well with the toasted bulgur wheat in the kibbeh.

Chickpea salad

This salad is made with chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, parsley, and mint. It’s dressed with a lemon vinaigrette made of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.

Chickpea salad is a great side dish for kibbeh because it has a similar flavor profile.

The addition of chickpea salad helps to balance out the richness of the kibbeh while providing a contrast in texture. The chickpea salad also adds some much-needed color to the dish.

Greek Tzatziki sauce

Tzatziki is a Greek yogurt-based sauce made with cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. It’s typically served with grilled meats or as a dip.

Tzatziki is a great side dish for kibbeh because it has a cooling effect that helps to offset the spice of the kibbeh.

The yogurt in the sauce also helps to balance out the richness of the lamb, and the cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.

Any type of yogurt can be used for this sauce, but I recommend using thick Greek yogurt.

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a rice dish made with sauteed onions, garlic, and spices. It’s usually made with chicken or beef broth, but vegetable broth can also be used.

Rice pilaf is a great side dish for kibbeh because it soaks up the rich flavors of the kibbeh without overpowering them.

The rice also has a subtle nuttiness that goes well with the toasted bulgur wheat in the kibbeh. Overall, it’s a great side dish that enhances the flavors of the kibbeh. In addition, is makes for a filling meal.

Hamud (Syrian mint sauce)

This is the first dish I had with my kibbeh. Oh! it was such a delicious blend of flavors. From the mint flavor of the sauce to the cooling effect it has, this is a must-have for Kibbeh.

Hamud is a Syrian mint sauce that’s made with fresh mint, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It’s typically served as a dip or condiment.

To make this sauce, simply combine all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. The mint also helps to brighten up the flavors of the kibbeh, and the lemon juice

This sauce will give you an unforgettable culinary experience.

Flatbread

Flatbread is the perfect accompaniment to kibbeh. The simple, unleavened bread provides a neutral canvas for the flavorful meat and vegetables in the kibbeh.

In addition, the bread helps to soak up the rich sauce, making each bite even more delicious. Flatbread is also a great way to mop up any extra kibbeh filling.

Interestingly, flatbread is one of the most popular side dishes for kibbeh.

Eggplant relish

Eggplant relish is a dish made with eggplants, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s usually served as a side dish or condiment.

This dish is a great side for kibbeh because it has a similar flavor profile.

For this dish, I also use red wine for the eggplants while they are trying to give it a nice smokey taste, which I love.

You can also add some feta cheese on top of the dish for an extra layer of flavor.

Greek Salad

Greek salad is a great side dish for kibbeh because it pairs well with the traditional ingredients in kibbeh.

This salad is made with olives, feta cheese, tomatoes, and cucumbers, which are all common ingredients in kibbeh.

The salad also has a variety of Greek flavors that complement the taste of kibbeh. Greek salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish that goes well with kibbeh.

The Greek salad also helps to balance out the rich flavors of the kibbeh.

Mediterranean salad

This is another salad recipe that will leave you feeling light and refreshed.

Mediterranean salad pairs well with kibbeh because it has a similar flavor profile.

This salad is the fourth salad option on this list, so you can easily choose which you prefer and give it a go. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a real flavor treat.

Fattoush

Fattoush is a Levantine bread salad that’s made with toasted or fried bread, vegetables, and herbs.

It’s typically served as a side dish or appetizer. Fattoush is a great side dish for kibbeh because it has a similar flavor profile.

The bread in the salad helps to soak up the rich flavors of the kibbeh, and the vegetables add a crunchy texture. Some ingredients used for this dish are molasses, romaine lettuce, and sumac.

Hummus

Hummus is another great side dish for kibbeh. The rich, savory flavor of kibbeh is offset by the creamy, tangy taste of hummus.

Hummus also helps to balance out the spices in kibbeh, making it a more well-rounded dish. In addition, it is packed with nutrients and fiber, making it a healthy choice for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.

To make hummus, simply combine cooked chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. You can also add additional spices to taste.

When served together, kibbeh and hummus make an unforgettable pairing that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Tabouli

Last on this list is another salad. Tabouli is a Levantine salad that’s made with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, mint, parsley, and onions.

The various vegetables in the salad help to soak up the rich kibbeh flavors while maintaining a crunchy texture.

To make tabouli, simply combine cooked bulgur wheat, diced tomatoes, diced cucumbers, chopped mint, chopped parsley, and diced onions in a bowl. Dress with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dish can be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQ

What can you eat with kibbeh?

Many different side dishes go well with kibbeh. Some of the most popular options include flatbread, eggplant relish, Greek salad, Mediterranean salad, fattoush, hummus, and tabouli.

What ethnicity is kibbeh?

Kibbeh is a Levantine dish that’s made with ground meat, bulgur wheat, and spices. It’s typically served as an appetizer or main course.

How do you make kibbeh?

To make kibbeh, combine ground meat, bulgur wheat, onions, and spices in a bowl. Mix well and form into balls or patties. Fry in oil until browned and cooked through. Serve with your favorite side dishes.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many different ways that you can enjoy kibbeh. With so many delicious options, it’s easy to find a dish that will please everyone at the table. So what are you waiting, give them a try?