Discover the irresistible flavors of Briouat, traditional fried pastries filled with a variety of delectable ingredients. Whether you prefer savory fillings like spiced meat and cheese or sweet options such as almond paste, Briouat offers a deliciously crispy experience that's perfect for any occasion. Follow our easy recipe to create these mouthwatering treats at home, and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

Ingredients:

For Savory Briouat:

- 250g ground beef or lamb

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tsp ground cumin

- 1 tsp ground coriander

- 1/2 tsp paprika

- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)

- 1 package of phyllo dough, thawed

- Oil for frying

For Sweet Briouat:

- 1 cup almond paste (or ground almonds mixed with sugar)

- 1/4 cup honey

- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1 package of phyllo dough, thawed

- Oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

Savory Briouat:

  - In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

  - Add the ground meat, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.

  - Stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat. Let it cool slightly.

Sweet Briouat:

  - In a bowl, mix almond paste, honey, and cinnamon until well combined.

Assemble the Briouat:

  - Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush lightly with oil.

  - Place another sheet of phyllo dough on top and brush with oil again.

  - Cut the layered phyllo dough into strips (about 3 inches wide).

  - For savory Briouat, place a spoonful of the meat mixture at one end of each strip. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up into a tight cylinder. Seal the edges with beaten egg.

  - For sweet Briouat, place a spoonful of the almond mixture at one end of each strip. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up into a tight cylinder. Seal the edges with beaten egg.

Fry the Briouat:

  - Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

  - Fry the Briouat in batches, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

  - Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Serve:

  - Enjoy your Briouat warm as a delicious appetizer or snack. Serve with a side of dipping sauce if desired.

Notes:

- You can also bake the Briouat at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy, if you prefer a lighter version.

- Briouat can be prepared in advance and frozen. Just fry them directly from the freezer for a quick and easy treat.

Nutritional values

Here is the nutritional information and benefits for the ingredients used in both savory and sweet briouat recipes:

250g ground beef or lamb

 - Calories: Approximately 625 kcal

 - Protein: 40g

 - Fat: 50g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides a high amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Rich in iron and vitamin B12.

1 onion, finely chopped

 - Calories: Approximately 45 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

 - Sugars: 5g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants, vitamins C and B6. Supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory effects.

2 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: Approximately 27 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.

1 tsp ground cumin

 - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0.4g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and provides antioxidants. Aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

1 tsp ground coriander

 - Calories: Approximately 3 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.15g

 - Fat: 0.15g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and has digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

1/2 tsp paprika

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds smoky flavor and provides antioxidants, including vitamin A.

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

 - Calories: Approximately 3 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Supports metabolic health.

Salt and pepper to taste

 - Calories: Negligible

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake and balance flavor.

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

 - Calories: Approximately 1 kcal per tablespoon

 - Carbohydrates: 0.3g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides vitamins A, C, and K. Adds antioxidants and supports digestion.

1 egg, beaten (for sealing)

 - Calories: Approximately 70 kcal

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 5g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Adds protein and essential nutrients. Supports muscle maintenance and overall health.

1 package of phyllo dough, thawed

 - Calories: Approximately 90 kcal per sheet

 - Fat: 5g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 1g

Benefits:

 - Used as a pastry wrapper. Low in fat compared to other pastry options.

Oil for frying

 - Calories: Varies by type of oil and amount used

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and helps in achieving a crispy texture. Use healthy oils like olive oil for better nutritional benefits.

1 cup almond paste (or ground almonds mixed with sugar)

 - Calories: Approximately 600 kcal

 - Fat: 50g

 - Carbohydrates: 30g

 - Protein: 15g

Benefits:

 - Rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. Supports heart health and provides energy.

1/4 cup honey

 - Calories: Approximately 260 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 70g

 - Sugars: 70g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Natural sweetener with antioxidant properties. Provides quick energy and supports digestive health.

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

 - Calories: Approximately 3 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Supports metabolic health.

1 package of phyllo dough, thawed

 - Calories: Approximately 90 kcal per sheet

 - Fat: 5g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 1g

Benefits:

 - Used as a pastry wrapper. Low in fat compared to other pastry options.

Oil for frying

 - Calories: Varies by type of oil and amount used

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and helps in achieving a crispy texture. Use healthy oils like olive oil for better nutritional benefits.