Egyptian Meat-pie. Recipe

Egyptian meat-pie, also known as "Egyptian Hawawshi," is a delicious traditional dish that originates from Egypt. Hawawshi is a popular street food in Egypt, consisting of a flavorful meat filling enclosed in a rich pie dough. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved dish among Egyptians and food enthusiasts worldwide.

Fun fact: Hawawshi is believed to have been influenced by Ottoman cuisine, as Egypt was once part of the Ottoman Empire. It is said that the name "hawawshi" comes from the Turkish word "havuc" which means "carrot," referring to the shape and color of the pie when it is sliced.

To make Egyptian meat-pie, follow this recipe:

Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup warm water

For the filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the vegetable oil and gradually add the warm water while kneading until a soft and smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Break up any lumps of meat with a spatula while cooking.

4. Season the meat with cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Stir well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.

5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the meat filling cool to room temperature.

6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Divide the dough into two equal portions.

8. Roll out one portion of the dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Line the pie dish with this rolled-out dough, making sure the edges are secure.

9. Spoon the cooled meat filling into the pie dish and spread it out evenly.

10. Roll out the second portion of the dough into another circle slightly larger than the diameter of your pie dish. Place it over the meat filling, sealing the edges by pressing them together with the bottom crust.

11. Use a knife to make a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

12. Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.

13. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

14. Slice the Egyptian meat-pie into wedges and serve hot as a main dish or as a delicious appetizer.

For an optional variation, you can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or chili flakes to the meat filling for extra flavor and a hint of spiciness.

Egyptian meat-pie pairs well with traditional Middle Eastern side dishes such as tahini sauce, tabbouleh, or a fresh salad.

Similar dishes to Egyptian meat-pie from other cultures include the Turkish lahmacun and the Lebanese sfeeha, which also feature a ground meat filling wrapped in a thin dough. These dishes highlight the rich culinary diversity found in the region while celebrating the commonalities among different cuisines.

Whether enjoyed as a casual street food or as part of a homemade family feast, Egyptian meat-pie is a delicious and satisfying dish that offers a taste of the rich culinary heritage of Egypt. So gather your loved ones, and prepare to indulge in the flavors of this delectable Egyptian delight.

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