Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than these homemade Lebanese meat pies! These savory pastries are a staple in Lebanese cuisine, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful lunch, or a stunning appetizer for your next gathering. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this easy recipe. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to takeout, embracing the principles of homemade cooking and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ cup chopped fresh mint
- ½ cup pine nuts, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender crust.
Preparing the Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground lamb (or beef) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, coriander, allspice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the parsley, mint, and pine nuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Assembling and Baking the Pies:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each half into a thin circle (about 12 inches in diameter).
- Spoon half of the meat filling onto one half of each circle. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground lamb and beef.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or cinnamon.
- If you don't have pine nuts, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mixture of lentils, vegetables, and herbs. This creates a hearty and delicious vegetarian option perfect for quick dinner ideas.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size. Consult a nutrition calculator for precise values using your exact ingredients. Generally, these pies provide a good source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying meal.
These Lebanese meat pies are a testament to the deliciousness and simplicity of Mediterranean cooking. Enjoy this easy recipe and share the culinary joy with your friends and family! This recipe is ideal for those seeking best recipes for flavorful and healthy meals.