Experience the irresistible charm of Feteer Bel Asaag, a centuries-old Egyptian pastry elevated with a savory ground meat filling. This recipe combines the art of creating ultra-flaky, buttery layers with a spiced beef mixture infused with warm cinnamon, allspice, and aromatic garlic. Each golden-brown square is baked to perfection, offering a crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, seasoned filling inside. Whether served as a satisfying appetizer, main dish, or snack, this flaky pastry makes a statement on any table. Ideal for family gatherings or exploring Middle Eastern cuisine, Feteer Bel Asaag is a labor of love that rewards with unforgettable flavor and texture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon until it forms a soft, pliable dough.
Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface, and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions, shape them into balls, and coat lightly with oil. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and let rest for 30 minutes.
While the dough rests, prepare the meat filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 8 minutes.
Season the beef mixture with ground cinnamon, ground allspice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, then remove the skillet from heat. If desired, mix in the chopped parsley. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
Take one portion of the rested dough and, on a lightly greased surface, roll it out as thinly as possible into a large, almost transparent circle. Brush the surface generously with melted butter.
Fold the edges of the dough into the center to form a square, layering the dough. Brush butter between each fold. Repeat this process with another portion of dough to create a second square.
Spread the cooled ground meat filling evenly over the center of one dough square, leaving a small border at the edges. Place the second dough square on top, sealing the edges by pinching or folding them together.
Transfer the prepared pastry onto the lined baking tray. Brush the top liberally with melted butter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing into squares or triangles.
Serve warm and enjoy the flaky, savory layers with your favorite dipping sauces or side dishes.
Calories |
3978 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 219.3 g | 281% | |
| Saturated Fat | 104.7 g | 524% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 25.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 540 mg | 180% | |
| Sodium | 4792 mg | 208% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 400.4 g | 146% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.8 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.8 g | ||
| Protein | 105.8 g | 212% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 207 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 29.3 mg | 163% | |
| Potassium | 1588 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.