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Middle Eastern Meat Pies

Irresistibly Flaky Middle Eastern Meat Pies Everyone Loves

Delicious Middle Eastern Meat Pies filled with savory meat and spices; perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 pies
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Substitute gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version.
  • 1 tbsp instant yeast Fresh yeast is essential for perfect texture.
  • 1 tsp sugar Activates the yeast; can be reduced for less sweetness.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances flavor of the dough.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Adds richness and tenderness.
  • 1 cup warm water Heat to about 110°F for effective yeast activation.
Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb Can substitute turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 1 medium tomato, finely chopped Adds moisture and fresh flavor.
  • 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped Introduces sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 2 tbsp pine nuts Omit for nut allergies, use sunflower seeds as alternative.
  • 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses Provides tangy sweetness.
  • 1 tsp ground allspice Infuses warmth and aromatic flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon Adds warmth and depth.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing) Used to sauté onions and meat.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Preparing the Middle Eastern Meat Pies
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Drizzle in olive oil and warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Let rise in a greased bowl, covered, for 1 hour.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 5 minutes until softened. Add ground meat and cook for 7-10 minutes until browned. Mix in tomato, bell pepper, pine nuts, allspice, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Stir in pomegranate molasses and let cool.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide into portions. Roll each into ovals, add filling, fold over and seal tightly.
  4. Place filled pies on a prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

These Middle Eastern Meat Pies make for a delicious and fulfilling meal that everyone will appreciate! Enjoy baking these delightful pockets of flavor!

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