Arabic Meat Pies

(from nishiki’s recipe box)

Source: http://thefrugalchef.com/2009/10/esfijas-arabic-meat-pies/

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Serves 5 people

Categories: Arabic, ground beef

Ingredients

  • 1 1⁄2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup chopped mint leaves
  • 1⁄2 cup Kefir cheese or Greek style thick plain yogurt
  • 10 5x5 puff pastry squares
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Directions

  1. Season ground beef with salt and pepper. Brown. Drain.

  2. Wipe skillet clean. Coat with a thin layer of olive oil. Add onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.

  3. Return the meat and mix well. Cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes.

  4. Add the kefir cheese. Mix well. Add the mint. Turn heat off. Mix well.

  5. Place your pastry puff squares on a cutting board. Rotate it so it looks a diamond.

  6. Add a spoonful of filling to the middle. Grab the left and right ends and press together in the middle. Bring up the other two ends and press together in the middle as well. Seal all edges well. Make a small knot in the middle.

  7. Place the esfijas on a lined baking pan. Brush esfijas with beaten egg.

  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until puffed and browned. Serve with extra Kefir cheese or Greek yogurt. Enjoy!

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