Feteer Bel Asaag Pastry with Ground Meat

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.

Nutriscore Rating: 58/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 250 milliliters Warm water
• 150 grams Unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 300 grams Ground beef
• 1 large Yellow onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon Salt (for filling)
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
• 2 tablespoons Parsley (chopped, optional)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 7

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.

Step 8

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.

Step 9

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.

Step 10

Transfer the prepared pastry onto the lined baking tray. Brush the top liberally with melted butter.

Step 11

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.

Step 12

Serve warm and enjoy the flaky, savory layers with your favorite dipping sauces or side dishes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1424.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3977.9

Total Fat 219.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 104.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 25.2g
Cholesterol 539.9mg	0%
Sodium 4792.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 400.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.8g	0%
Total Sugars 7.8g
Protein 105.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 207.1mg	0%
Iron 29.3mg	0%
Potassium 1588.1mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.4%

Protein: 10.6%

Carbs: 40.1%