Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Middle Eastern Meat Pies are a delightful treat that brings flavors of the Levant right to your kitchen. These savory pies, known as Sfeeha, feature a soft dough topped with a spiced mixture of ground beef or lamb, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for gatherings, snack time, or even a cozy dinner, these mini pies are sure to impress your guests with their unique taste and appealing presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground meat, spices, and vegetables creates a deliciously rich filling that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, these pies are perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm with yogurt or lemon wedges for dipping; they also make an excellent addition to a mezze platter.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pies when you’re ready to bake, making them great for meal prep.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily adapt the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful Middle Eastern Meat Pies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is vital for combining your dough ingredients effectively.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out the dough evenly, ensuring each pie has the perfect shape and thickness.
• Skillet: A skillet allows for sautéing onions and browning the meat quickly before adding it to the pies.

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Ingredients

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

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

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

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Sauté onions until they become soft.
3. Add ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. Stir in tomatoes, red bell peppers, pine nuts, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper; cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Mix in pomegranate molasses and allow cooling.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide dough into small balls and roll each into a 5–6 inch oval shape.
3. Place rolled ovals on prepared baking sheet; spread about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture over each oval while leaving a slight border around edges.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until dough is golden brown and cooked through.
2. Serve warm with yogurt or lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy these delightful Middle Eastern Meat Pies at your next gathering or simply as a delicious homemade snack!

How to Serve Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Serving Middle Eastern meat pies, also known as Sfeeha, can elevate your meal experience. These savory delights are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for appetizers or main courses.

With Yogurt Sauce

• A refreshing yogurt sauce complements the rich flavors of the meat pies. Simply mix plain yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a delightful dip.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges enhance the taste of the pies. Squeeze a little juice over the top before taking a bite for an extra zesty flavor burst.

On a Mezze Platter

• Present the meat pies on a mezze platter alongside hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves for a beautiful and diverse spread that invites sharing.

Paired with Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty meat pies. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon dressing for added flavor.

Served as Finger Food

• Middle Eastern meat pies are perfect finger food for parties. Cut them into smaller portions to make them easy to grab and enjoy without utensils.

How to Perfect Middle Eastern Meat Pies

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Middle Eastern meat pies, follow these essential tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ground meat enhance the overall taste of your pies.
• Knead thoroughly: Ensure that you knead your dough well to develop gluten for a soft and chewy texture.
• Let dough rise properly: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size is crucial for achieving light and fluffy pastry.
• Don’t overfill: While it might be tempting to add more filling, overfilling can lead to messy baking. Stick to recommended amounts.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the pies while they bake. You want them golden brown but not burnt.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Adding additional herbs can create unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Pairing side dishes with your Middle Eastern meat pies can enhance the dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mix of parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice that adds brightness to your meal.
2. Hummus: This creamy chickpea dip is perfect for dipping your meat pies and adds an extra layer of flavor.
3. Fattoush Salad: Made with mixed greens and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy sumac dressing, this salad offers crunch and zest.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil make a colorful and healthy addition.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice and herbs pair wonderfully with meat pies on any mezze platter.
6. Olives and Pickles: A variety of olives or pickled vegetables provide a salty contrast that complements the savory flavors of the pies.
7. Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs serves as a great base or side dish alongside the flavorful meat pies.
8. Grilled Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush): This smoky eggplant dip is deliciously creamy and works well as a spread or dip with your Sfeeha.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Middle Eastern Meat Pies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect dough texture. Always use warm water and room temperature ingredients for better dough consistency.
• Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the dough tough. Knead just until smooth and elastic for a soft and fluffy result.
• Not letting the dough rise: Skipping the rising step will result in dense pies. Allow the dough to rise until it’s doubled in size for lightness.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause spills during baking. Use just enough meat mixture to cover the surface while leaving a border.
• Underbaking: Removing pies too early can leave them doughy inside. Bake until golden brown for a fully cooked pie with great flavor.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every palate is different. Taste your filling and adjust spices according to your preference for a flavorful bite.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure they cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture.

Freezing Middle Eastern Meat Pies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Middle Eastern Meat Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds), checking often to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Middle Eastern Meat Pies.

What type of meat works best in Middle Eastern Meat Pies?

Ground beef or lamb is traditionally used, but you can also use turkey or chicken if preferred.

Can I make Middle Eastern Meat Pies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use plant-based gelling agents instead of pomegranate molasses if needed.

How can I customize my Middle Eastern Meat Pies?

Feel free to add spices like cumin or coriander, or include vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

What are some good sides for serving with Middle Eastern Meat Pies?

Serve them with yogurt sauce, tabbouleh salad, or hummus on the side for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Middle Eastern Meat Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different meats or spices based on your taste preferences. These savory pies make excellent appetizers or main dishes that everyone will enjoy. Try making them at home and delight your family and friends with this tasty treat!