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Lebanese Potato Souffle

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Lebanese Potato Souffle, or ‘Kibbet Batata,’ is a savory Middle Eastern casserole made from mashed potatoes, fine bulgur, and optionally a spiced ground meat filling. Baked until golden, it’s hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor—perfect as a main or side dish.

Ingredients

  • 4 large potatoes (peeled and boiled)
  • 1/2 cup fine bulgur
  • 250g ground beef or lamb (optional)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (plus more for greasing and topping)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg (optional, for binding)
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional, for garnish or meat filling)

Instructions

  1. Peel and boil potatoes until tender. Mash while warm and set aside.
  2. Soak bulgur in warm water for 10–15 minutes until softened, then drain excess water.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter and sauté chopped onions until translucent.
  4. If using meat, add ground beef or lamb to the onions and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, allspice, cinnamon, and stir in parsley and pine nuts if using. Set aside.
  5. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, soaked bulgur, salt, and optional egg. Mix until smooth.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  7. Spread half the potato mixture in the dish, pressing it evenly into the base.
  8. Add the meat mixture as a middle layer (if using).
  9. Cover with remaining potato mixture and smooth the surface.
  10. Drizzle with olive oil or dot with butter for a golden crust.
  11. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  12. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold for the best texture.Egg is optional but helps with binding, especially if the mix is soft.Vegetarian version: skip meat and use seasoned veggies or lentils instead.Pine nuts add crunch and depth but can be omitted if preferred.Can be prepared ahead and baked before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/lebanese-potato-souffle/