Embark on a culinary journey with Savory Symphony: Sfeeha Delights, a traditional Middle Eastern dish that transforms simple ingredients into a gastronomic masterpiece. These open-faced meat pies blend finely minced meat with rich spices, spread on a soft, doughy base, and baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors, making Sfeeha a favorite at gatherings, a staple for family meals, and a delightful snack any time of day.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6 people
- Serving Size: 2 pies
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour: 500 grams (17.6 ounces / 1.1 pounds)
- Dry yeast: 10 grams (0.35 ounces / 0.022 pounds)
- Warm water: 250 ml (8.5 ounces / 0.55 pounds)
- Olive oil: 30 ml (1 ounce / 0.066 pounds)
- Salt: 5 grams (0.18 ounces / 0.01 pounds)
For the Filling
- Ground beef or lamb: 400 grams (14.1 ounces / 0.88 pounds)
- Onion, finely chopped: 100 grams (3.5 ounces / 0.22 pounds)
- Tomatoes, finely diced: 200 grams (7.1 ounces / 0.44 pounds)
- Pine nuts: 50 grams (1.76 ounces / 0.11 pounds)
- Ground allspice: 5 grams (0.18 ounces / 0.01 pounds)
- Ground cinnamon: 2 grams (0.07 ounces / 0.004 pounds)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Dough Preparation: Mix flour, yeast, warm water, olive oil, and salt to form a soft dough. Let it rise until doubled in size.
- Making the Filling: Combine ground meat, onions, tomatoes, pine nuts, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Assembling Pies: Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each into a circle and place on a baking sheet. Spread the meat mixture on top.
- Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) until the dough is cooked and the tops are golden.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Ensure the dough is not too thick for a perfectly cooked base.
- Browning the meat mixture before spreading on the dough can enhance the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Sfeeha ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them up to the baking stage and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the filling?
Absolutely, try a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs.
How long do Sfeeha last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.