Discover the flavors of traditional Sfiha, a savory Palestinian flatbread often called "Palestinian pizza." This delectable recipe features a crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced lamb, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a hearty appetizer or main dish, Sfiha is sure to impress with its rich taste and satisfying texture. Follow our step-by-step guide to make this classic Middle Eastern dish at home.

Ingredients:

- For the Dough:

 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

 - 1/2 teaspoon sugar

 - 3/4 cup warm water

 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

- For the Topping:

 - 250g minced lamb

 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 1 tomato, finely chopped

 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin

 - 1 teaspoon ground paprika

 - 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - Salt and pepper to taste

 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

 - In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.

 - Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.

 - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 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 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Topping:

 - Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the minced lamb until browned.

 - Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.

 - Stir in the chopped tomato, cumin, paprika, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the mixture is well combined and the liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat.

Assemble and Bake:

 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

 - Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal portions.

 - Roll each portion into a thin circle on a floured surface.

 - Place the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

 - Spread the lamb mixture evenly over each flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.

 - Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the topping is cooked through.

 - Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Sfiha as a delicious appetizer or a satisfying main dish!

Nutritional values

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

 - Calories: 910

 - Carbohydrates: 190g

Benefits: Provides energy through carbohydrates. Contains some protein and iron.

1 teaspoon active dry yeast

 - Calories: 11

Benefits: Helps the dough rise; contains small amounts of protein, B vitamins, and minerals.

1/2 teaspoon salt

 - Calories: 0

 - Sodium: 1150mg

Benefits: Enhances flavor; should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

1/2 teaspoon sugar

- Calories: 8

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Feeds the yeast, aiding in dough rising.

3/4 cup warm water

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Hydrates and helps bind the ingredients together.

2 tablespoons olive oil

 - Calories: 240

 - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy. Contains vitamin E and antioxidants.

For the Topping:

250g minced lamb

 - Calories: 720

 - Protein: 60g

 - Fat: 50g

Benefits: High in protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Provides rich flavor but should be consumed in moderation due to high fat content.

1 medium onion, finely chopped

 - Calories: 45

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Contains vitamins C and B6, and antioxidants. Supports immune function and digestive health.

2 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: 10

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Supports heart health.

1 tomato, finely chopped

 - Calories: 22

 - Carbohydrates: 5g

Benefit: Provides vitamins C and A, and antioxidants. Supports skin health and immune function.

1 teaspoon ground cumin

 - Calories: 8

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antioxidant properties. May aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects.

1 teaspoon ground paprika

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and adds flavor. Can support digestion and provide vitamins A and E.

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

 - Calories: 3

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antioxidant properties. May aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects.

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Adds flavor with potential health benefits.

Salt and pepper to taste

 - Salt: Adds flavor; use in moderation.

 - Pepper: Contains antioxidants and can aid digestion.

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 - Calories: ~1 (per tablespoon)

Benefits: Provides flavor and contains vitamins A, C, and K. Contains antioxidants and supports immune health.

The dough provides a base rich in carbohydrates and some essential nutrients, while the topping adds a hearty, flavorful layer with protein from lamb and a mix of spices for additional health benefits. Olive oil enhances the dough with healthy fats. Overall, this recipe combines a balance of macronutrients and vitamins, with the added benefit of spices for flavor and potential health support.