Chiapas-style Kubbah

Ingredients

In this Chiapas-style adaptation, the traditional bulgur wheat used in Lebanese Kubbah is replaced with corn masa, a staple ingredient in Chiapas cuisine. The spices are also adjusted to incorporate Chiapas flavors, such as cumin and coriander, which are commonly used in the region. The cooking technique may vary as well, with the option to either bake or fry the Kubbah. We alse have the original recipe for Kubbah bi-aṣ-sīnīyah, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (160g) corn masa 1 cup (160g) corn masa
• 1 pound (450g) ground meat (beef or lamb) 1 pound (450g) ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying or olive oil for baking Vegetable oil for frying or olive oil for baking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the corn masa, ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a ball. Flatten the ball with your palms to form a patty.
3. 3.
   If frying, heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the Kubbah patties until golden brown on both sides. If baking, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the Kubbah patties on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Serve the Chiapas-style Kubbah hot as an appetizer or as a main course with a side of salsa or guacamole.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Corn masa — Make sure to use a fine corn masa flour for the best texture. If the dough feels too dry, add a little water at a time until it reaches a pliable consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, roasted vegetables, or even beans to create unique variations of Chiapas-style Kubbah.
• If baking, brush the Kubbah patties with olive oil before placing them in the oven to achieve a golden crust.

Serving advice

Serve Chiapas-style Kubbah as an appetizer with a side of salsa or guacamole, or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad and warm tortillas.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Chiapas-style Kubbah on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of paprika for an enticing presentation.