Quick & Filling Esfihas (A Feel-Good Middle Eastern-Inspired Dinner)

I have a strong suspicion I’m the only one that might do this, but I love watching documentaries about food and I love it even more when I find something I have to make immediately. Which brings us to my experiment making esfihas. These little beauties are a savory, Middle Eastern-inspired flatbread or small meat pie that became a popular food in Brazil after Lebanese and Syrian immigrants brought them to the country.

Let’s Cook!

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef. After about 5 minutes, add the onions and peppers and cook until soft.
• Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, and spices, letting everything simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens and smells incredible.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of balsamic at the end for a little tang.
• Let the mixture cool completely.
• Cut the dough into 8 pieces and roll each into a 4–6-inch disk, about ½ inch thick.
• Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
• Top each with a sprinkle of cheese, 2–3 tablespoons of filling, and another sprinkle of cheese.
• Bake at 425° for 10–15 minutes, until the edges are golden.
• Finish with lime juice, tomatoes, and parsley.
• Enjoy!

Wow these were good (and the way the cumin, allspice, and cinnamon filled the kitchen? Unreal.) It turned into the perfect game-night dinner.

Next time, I’m attempting the little triangle fold I saw in the documentary. For now, I’m calling this a very happy beginner win.

What’s been your favorite dish inspired by a show? Let us know so we can try too!

Eat well friends!

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