Homemade Spiced Meat Pies

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (235ml) warm water 1 cup (235ml) warm water
• Vegetable oil, for brushing Vegetable oil, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 kJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugar: 2g)
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into equal-sized balls and roll each ball into a thin circle or oval shape.
6. 6.
   Spoon a generous amount of the meat filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
7. 7.
   Place the stuffed dough pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with vegetable oil.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pies are golden brown and crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. 10.
    Serve the Hawawshi meat pies with tahini sauce and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. If desired, you can substitute ground beef with ground lamb or a mixture of both for a different flavor.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will enhance their aroma and flavor.
• All-purpose flour — If you prefer a lighter texture, you can use half all-purpose flour and half bread flour.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat filling.
• Serve the Hawawshi meat pies with a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• Customize the filling by adding diced bell peppers or chopped parsley for added freshness.
• If you prefer a softer crust, brush the dough with milk instead of oil before baking.
• Leftover meat pies can be reheated in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the Hawawshi meat pies hot, straight from the oven, for the best taste and texture. Accompany them with a side of tahini sauce, a fresh salad, and pickles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Hawawshi meat pies on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint, to add a pop of color. Serve them alongside a bowl of tahini sauce and a side salad for an appetizing presentation.