Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Turkey? These Spicy Turkish Meat Pastries are not just any ordinary snack; they are a delightful fusion of flaky phyllo dough and a savory, spiced beef filling that will leave you craving more. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its irresistible aroma and mouthwatering flavor. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and discover the secrets to making these delectable pastries that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Turkish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package of phyllo dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Measure out the ground beef, red pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, stir in the red pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the filling cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Unroll the package of phyllo dough on a clean surface. Keep the dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- Take one sheet of phyllo dough and lay it flat on your work surface. Brush it lightly with melted butter or oil. Place another sheet on top and brush it again. Repeat this process for 3-4 sheets to create a sturdy base.
- Once you have layered the phyllo dough, cut it into squares, approximately 4x4 inches in size.
- Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners of the square over the filling to create a triangle shape, sealing the edges by pressing them together. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for extra sealing.
- Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
- Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo dough and meat filling until all pastries are assembled.
- Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Spicy Turkish Meat Pastries warm!
Tips
- Keep the Phyllo Dough Moist: Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so always keep it covered with a damp cloth while you work with it to prevent it from becoming brittle.
- Customize the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the quantity or omit it altogether.
- Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing the tops of your pastries with a beaten egg not only gives them a beautiful golden color but also helps to seal the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking.
- Make Ahead: These pastries can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Enhance your tasting experience by serving these pastries with a side of yogurt sauce or a spicy tomato dip for an extra burst of flavor.
- Experiment with Fillings: While the beef filling is delicious, don’t hesitate to try variations such as ground lamb, chicken, or even a vegetarian filling with spinach and feta for a different twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
