İçli köfte is a traditional Turkish dish, known as "kibbeh" in other Middle Eastern cuisines. It consists of a crispy outer shell made primarily from bulgur wheat (cracked wheat) and sometimes a mix of semolina or flour. The outer layer is firm yet tender, providing a perfect contrast to the filling. Inside, the stuffing is typically a savory mixture of ground beef or lamb, sautéed with onions, herbs, and a variety of spices such as cumin, allspice, and paprika. Some versions also include chopped walnuts or pine nuts for added texture and flavor. Once the filling is prepared, it’s carefully enclosed within the bulgur shell, shaped into an oval or torpedo-like form, and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.
