You know, I can still remember the first time I tried Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie). It was during a trip to Cairo a few years back, and the aroma of the spices just wafted through the air, drawing me in. I couldn’t resist trying a slice, and from the first bite, I was hooked. The way the flaky phyllo dough perfectly complemented the rich, flavorful beef filling – it was an absolute delight.
Why This Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)
What makes this recipe so special is the balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the blend of spices – the paprika, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon create a depth of flavor that’s simply unbeatable. And the way the beef is slowly simmered in the beef broth until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, well, it’s just magic. But the real showstopper is the phyllo dough. When you bite into that flaky, buttery crust, it’s like a symphony in your mouth.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the must-have ingredients for this recipe. First, there’s the ground beef – the foundation of the filling. You’ll want to use a high-quality, flavorful beef that can really stand up to the bold spices. Then, the onion and garlic provide the aromatic base, adding depth and complexity. The paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper are the spice stars, each one playing a crucial role in creating that signature Egyptian flavor profile. And the beef broth and diced tomatoes? They’re the liquid gold that transforms the beef into a rich, saucy masterpiece. Finally, the phyllo dough and melted butter are the key to that irresistible crispy crust.
Step-by-Step Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Instructions
Preparing Your Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)
Alright, let’s get cooking! This Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) comes together in just 60 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cook time. You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven, a mixing bowl, and a baking dish.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns, about 5-7 minutes.
2- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3- Stir in the paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
4- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
5- Taste the filling and season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
6- Unroll the phyllo dough and brush the bottom and sides of a 9×13 inch baking dish with the melted butter. Layer 4 sheets of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each layer with more melted butter. Spoon the beef filling into the dish, then top with the remaining 4 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing with butter as you go.
Pro Tips for Success
Now, here are a few pro tips to ensure your Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) turns out perfectly every time:
- Be patient when cooking the beef – you want it to get nicely browned to develop that deep, rich flavor.
- Don’t be shy with the spices! The blend of paprika, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon is what gives this dish its signature taste.
- When assembling the phyllo layers, work quickly to prevent the dough from drying out. Keep the unused sheets covered with a damp towel.
- For an extra crispy crust, consider brushing the top layer of phyllo with a bit of egg wash before baking.
Serving and Storing Your Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)
Perfect Pairings for Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)
This Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) serves 6 people, and it’s the perfect centerpiece for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. As for pairings, I love serving it with a fresh, crisp salad – the bright flavors really complement the richness of the dish. And for a beverage, a bold red wine or a refreshing iced tea would be a great choice.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this recipe is that it holds up beautifully. If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. And if you want to get a head start, you can assemble the entire dish in advance and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)
Creative Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Variations
Now, while this classic version is hard to beat, there are a few fun ways you can put your own spin on it. For a seasonal twist, you could try using ground lamb instead of beef, and adding in some diced butternut squash or roasted bell peppers. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little spicier, you could amp up the cayenne pepper or even add in a diced jalapeño.
Making Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Diet-Friendly
And for those of you with dietary restrictions, don’t worry – this recipe can be easily adapted. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the phyllo dough for gluten-free puff pastry or a pre-made gluten-free pie crust. And if you’re looking to cut down on carbs, you could serve the beef filling on its own, without the phyllo topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute ground lamb, turkey, or even a combination of meats for a unique twist.
Q: How long does it take to make this Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie)?
A: The total time for this recipe is 60 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can! This recipe is great for meal prepping. Simply assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) recipe serves 6 people.
Q: What if the phyllo dough gets soggy?
A: To prevent a soggy crust, be sure to brush each layer of phyllo dough with plenty of melted butter. Additionally, you can bake the dish on a preheated baking sheet to help crisp up the bottom.
Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)
- Total Time: 60
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of this Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) – a comforting and flavorful main dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 8 sheets phyllo dough
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in a 9-inch pie dish, letting the edges hang over the sides. Brush with melted butter. Repeat with 7 more sheets, brushing each with butter.
7. Spoon the beef goulash filling into the phyllo-lined pie dish. Fold the overhanging phyllo dough over the filling.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden-brown and crispy.
9. Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground lamb. Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Beef, Fish & Seafood Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Egyptian
Conclusion
There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about this Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie). The flavors, the textures, the aroma – it’s a true culinary delight. I hope this recipe becomes a new staple in your household, just as it has in mine. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey. And don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I can’t wait to hear all about your Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) experience!
