Armenian Steak Tartare (Chee Kufta)

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 lbs lean ground meat (London Broil or top round)
• 2 1/4 cups fine ground cracked wheat (bulgur)
• 2 cups cold water
• 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon basil
• 3 cups onions, chopped fine
• 1 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 large green pepper, chopped

Directions

1. 1

   Combine vegetables and basil together and mix well.

2. 2

   In a large bowl combine 2 cups of chopped vegetables and mix the bulgur, water, tomato sauce and salt.

3. 3

   Mix well and let stand 10 minutes.

4. 4

   Add meat and blend well.

5. 5

   Knead about 5 minutes, moistening your hands with cold water at intervals.

6. 6

   Taste for salt.

7. 7

   Add more if necessary.

8. 8

   Shape as desired and place on platter.

9. 9

   We liked it squished flat with a fork and spread liberally with fresh chopped parsley and green onions as garnish.

10. 10

    Eat with pita bread or crusty french bread, YUM!