Discover how to make traditional Lebanese Sfeeha, savory meat pies filled with a flavorful mix of spiced lamb or beef. This authentic recipe features a perfectly seasoned meat filling encased in a soft, golden-brown crust. Ideal for appetizers, snacks, or a hearty meal, Sfeeha is a beloved Lebanese dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. Follow our step-by-step guide to create these delicious pies at home!

Ingredients:

For the Dough

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

- 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

For the Filling:

- 1/2 pound ground lamb or beef

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)

- 1 teaspoon ground allspice

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy.

- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil.

- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

- In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.

- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

- Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.

- Stir in the pine nuts (if using), allspice, cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the flavors meld.

- Remove from heat and mix in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Allow the filling to cool slightly.

Assemble the Sfeeha:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small circle, about 1/8 inch thick.

- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges up and pinch to seal, creating a small, open-faced pie.

- Place the assembled Sfeeha on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Serve:

- Allow the Sfeeha to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.

Nutritional Values:

All-Purpose Flour:

- 1 cup (120g): Approximately 455 calories, 13g protein, 95g carbohydrates, 1.2g fat.

Benefits: Provides essential carbohydrates for energy and a small amount of protein. Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative, offering more fiber and nutrients.

Plain Yogurt:

- 1 cup (245g): Approximately 150 calories, 10g protein, 12g carbohydrates, 8g fat.

Benefits: Rich in calcium and protein, supports bone health and digestion, and contains probiotics that contribute to gut health.

Olive Oil:

- 1 tablespoon (14g): Approximately 120 calories, 14g fat.

Benefits: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and provides antioxidants including vitamin E.

Sugar:

- 1 tablespoon (12g): Approximately 49 calories, 12g carbohydrates.

Benefits: Provides quick energy; however, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid health issues like weight gain and diabetes.

Active Dry Yeast:

- 1 teaspoon (3g): Approximately 11 calories, 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, 0.2g fat.

Benefits: Adds leavening to dough, contains B vitamins and minerals like iron that support energy metabolism.

Filling Ingredients:

Ground Lamb or Beef:

- 1/2 pound (227g): Approximately 560 calories, 50g protein, 0g carbohydrates, 40g fat.

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein, essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins important for muscle growth and overall health.

Onion:

- 1 large (150g): Approximately 60 calories, 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, 0.2g fat.

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, supports immune function, and may have anti-inflammatory and heart health benefits.

Garlic:

- 1 clove (3g): Approximately 4 calories, 0.2g protein, 1g carbohydrates, 0g fat.

Benefits: Contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, supports cardiovascular health, and boosts the immune system.

Pine Nuts:

- 1/4 cup (34g): Approximately 230 calories, 5g protein, 4g carbohydrates, 22g fat.

Benefits: High in healthy fats, provides essential nutrients like magnesium and zinc beneficial for heart health and energy production.

Ground Allspice:

- 1 teaspoon (2g): Approximately 6 calories, 0.1g protein, 1.5g carbohydrates, 0.2g fat.

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties; may aid digestion and provide relief from gastrointestinal issues.

Ground Cumin:

- 1 teaspoon (2g): Approximately 8 calories, 0.4g protein, 1g carbohydrates, 0.4g fat.

Benefits: Known for digestive benefits, helps with appetite control and blood sugar regulation.

Ground Cinnamon:

- 1 teaspoon (2.6g): Approximately 6 calories, 0.1g protein, 1.8g carbohydrates, 0.03g fat.

Benefits: Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, can help regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health.

Salt and Pepper:

- Nutritional Values: Negligible calories in small amounts.

Benefits: Salt is essential for electrolyte balance, while pepper aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.

Tomato Paste:

- 1 tablespoon (16g): Approximately 13 calories, 0.6g protein, 3g carbohydrates, 0.1g fat.

Benefits: Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

Fresh Parsley:

- 1/4 cup (15g): Approximately 5 calories, 0.5g protein, 1g carbohydrates, 0.1g fat.

Benefits: High in vitamins A, C, and K, supports immune function, bone health, and provides antioxidant properties.

Lemon Juice:

- 1 tablespoon (15g): Approximately 4 calories, 0g fat, 1g carbohydrates, 0g protein.

Benefits: Rich in vitamin C, supports immune health and may enhance iron absorption.

These values and benefits are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.