Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Middle Eastern Meat Pies are a delightful treat that brings the rich flavors of Levantine cuisine to your table. These savory, open-faced pastries are perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. With their soft dough and spiced filling, they offer a unique combination of taste and texture that is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious pies quickly.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of ground beef or lamb, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering filling.
• Versatile Options: Customize the filling based on your preferences—add more veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: These mini pies are ideal for parties and mezze platters, allowing everyone to enjoy a variety of flavors.
• Great Leftovers: They store well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or reheated—perfect for quick meals!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes preparing Middle Eastern Meat Pies easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth dough.
• Rolling pin: Helps in achieving uniform thickness when rolling out the dough for even baking.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions and browning the meat, ensuring great flavor development.

Ingredients

Sfeeha are open-faced Middle Eastern meat pies made with soft dough and topped with a savory, spiced mixture of ground beef or lamb, pine nuts, tomato, and aromatic spices — a traditional dish from Syrian and Levantine cuisine.

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 cup warm water (more as needed)

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp pine nuts
• 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add olive oil and gradually pour in warm water while mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until they become soft. Then add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in tomato, red bell pepper, pine nuts, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes before adding pomegranate molasses. Let this mixture cool down.

Step 3: Shape the Pies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the risen dough into small balls. Roll each ball into an oval shape about 5–6 inches long. Place these ovals on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Spread approximately 2 tablespoons of meat mixture over each oval while leaving a slight border around the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until the dough turns golden brown.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once baked, serve your Middle Eastern Meat Pies warm alongside yogurt or lemon wedges for an added touch of flavor!

How to Serve Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Serving Middle Eastern meat pies (sfeeha) can elevate your dining experience. These delightful open-faced pastries can be enjoyed in various ways, adding layers of flavor and enjoyment.

With Yogurt Sauce

• Serve warm with a creamy yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast to the savory filling.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty touch that brightens up every bite, enhancing the flavors of the spices.

On a Mezze Platter

• Include sfeeha on a mezze platter alongside hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves for a colorful and diverse appetizer spread.

Paired with Fresh Salad

• A simple salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs complements the richness of the meat pies and adds freshness to your meal.

As an Appetizer at Dinner Parties

• Serve them as an enticing starter at gatherings or dinner parties for a taste of Levantine cuisine that will impress your guests.

How to Perfect Middle Eastern Meat Pies

To ensure your Middle Eastern meat pies turn out perfectly delicious, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meat for the best flavor in your filling.

• Knead Well: Properly kneading the dough creates a soft texture that holds up well during baking.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pies in the oven. Remove them when they are golden brown to prevent drying out.

• Cool Filling Before Assembling: Letting the meat mixture cool prevents the dough from becoming soggy when assembled.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a more personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Pairing side dishes with Middle Eastern meat pies enhances their enjoyment. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Tabbouleh: A fresh salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and mint, providing a crunchy and refreshing side.

2. Hummus: This creamy chickpea dip is perfect for spreading on bread or dipping vegetables, enriching your meal with its smooth texture.

3. Baba Ganoush: A smoky eggplant dip that pairs beautifully with meat pies, offering a unique flavor contrast.

4. Fattoush Salad: Made with mixed greens and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy dressing, it adds crunch and zest.

5. Pickled Vegetables: A selection of pickled radishes or cucumbers adds acidity and brightness to balance the richness of the meat pies.

6. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice with nuts or dried fruits complements sfeeha nicely while adding substance to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Middle Eastern meat pies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Dough Consistency: Using too much or too little water can lead to a dry or overly sticky dough. Always add water gradually until you achieve a soft, pliable texture.

• Overcooking the Meat Filling: Cooking the meat mixture for too long can make it dry. Sauté just until browned and then mix in the other ingredients.

• Skipping the Rising Time: Failing to let the dough rise properly can result in dense pies. Be patient and allow the dough to double in size for a light texture.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning the filling can make your pies bland. Taste and adjust seasonings accordingly, especially with spices.

• Using Inconsistent Sizes: Not rolling out uniform dough pieces can cause uneven baking. Aim for equal-sized ovals for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Middle Eastern meat pies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Middle Eastern Meat Pies

• Place uncooked or cooked pies in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months; ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Middle Eastern Meat Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Middle Eastern Meat Pies?

Middle Eastern meat pies, often called sfeeha, are savory pastries filled with spiced ground beef or lamb, baked until golden brown.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Chicken is a great alternative and will still provide delicious flavor when seasoned well.

How do I customize my filling?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swap spices according to your taste preferences for unique flavors.

What is pomegranate molasses used for?

Pomegranate molasses adds a sweet and tangy depth to your meat filling; however, you can substitute it with balsamic vinegar if unavailable.

How do I serve Middle Eastern Meat Pies?

These pies are perfect as appetizers or snacks and pair wonderfully with yogurt or fresh lemon wedges on the side.

Final Thoughts

Middle Eastern meat pies are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various fillings and spices based on your taste preferences. Whether served as appetizers at gatherings or enjoyed as a snack, these savory treats are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and explore different variations!