Embark on a flavorful journey to the heart of Brazil with our enticing recipe for Esfirra – a beloved and delectable street food that encapsulates the rich culinary tapestry of this vibrant South American nation. Bursting with exotic spices and a harmonious blend of ingredients, Brazilian Esfirra is a mouthwatering pastry that offers a taste of tradition with every bite.

Originating from Middle Eastern culinary influences, Esfirra has evolved into a Brazilian favorite, cherished for its unique combination of textures and flavors. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook eager to explore international cuisine, our step-by-step guide will take you through the process of crafting these irresistible delights, allowing you to bring a touch of Brazilian magic to your own kitchen.

Join us as we uncover the secrets behind crafting the perfect Esfirra – a delightful and culturally rich dish that not only satiates the palate but also transports you to the lively streets of Brazil, where the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in a culinary adventure like no other. Get ready to immerse yourself in the flavors of Brazil and experience the joy of creating a dish that pays homage to the country's gastronomic heritage.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough: a. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. b. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. c. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Make the Filling: a. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat. b. Add chopped onions, garlic, and tomatoes to the meat. Sauté until the vegetables are soft. c. Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. d. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Allow the filling to cool.

Shape the Esfirras: a. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). b. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into golf ball-sized portions. c. Roll each portion into a thin circle on a floured surface. d. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each circle, leaving the edges open.

Bake: a. Arrange the filled dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. b. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Serve: a. Once baked, let the Esfirras cool for a few minutes before serving. b. Enjoy these open-faced meat pies warm, either on their own or with a side of your favorite sauce or dip.

Delight in the savory blend of Middle Eastern and Brazilian flavors with these small, open-faced meat pies – a true taste of culinary fusion!

Nutritional Values:

It's important to note that specific nutritional values can vary based on the brand and type of ingredients used. The following values are approximate and based on generic data. For more accurate nutritional information, it's recommended to refer to the packaging or specific nutritional databases for the exact products you use:

Nutritional Values per Serving (Assuming 8 Servings):

Dough:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour:

• 960 calories
• 4g fat
• 200g carbs
• 32g protein

benefits:

• Provides carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains small amounts of protein and fiber.

1 tablespoon active dry yeast:

• 23 calories
• 0g fat
• 3g carbs
• 3g protein

benefits:

• Acts as a leavening agent for the dough, causing it to rise.
• Contains B-vitamins, particularly B6.

1 teaspoon sugar:

• 16 calories
• 0g fat
• 4g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• Provides a quick source of energy.

1 cup warm water:

• 0 calories
• 0g fat
• 0g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Facilitates the activation of yeast.
• Essential for the formation and consistency of the dough.

1/4 cup olive oil:

• 477 calories
• 54g fat
• 0g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Adds moisture and tenderness to the dough.
• Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

1 teaspoon salt:

• 0 calories
• 0g fat
• 0g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
• Regulates yeast activity and strengthens gluten structure.

Filling:

1 lb ground beef or lamb:

• 1040 calories
• 85g fat
• 0g carbs
• 65g protein

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• Provides essential nutrients like iron and zinc.

1 large onion, finely chopped:

• 64 calories
• 0g fat
• 15g carbs
• 2g protein

benefits:

• Adds flavor and aroma to the filling.
• Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

2 tomatoes, diced:

• 50 calories
• 0g fat
• 12g carbs
• 2g protein

benefits:

• Contribute a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Rich in vitamins C and A, and antioxidants like lycopene.

2 cloves garlic, minced:

• 8 calories
• 0g fat
• 2g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Enhances the savory flavor of the filling.
• Contains allicin, known for potential health benefits.

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped:

• 4 calories
• 0g fat
• 1g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Adds freshness and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
• Contains vitamins A, C, and K.

1 teaspoon ground cumin:

• 8 calories
• 1g fat
• 1g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Provides a warm, earthy flavor to the filling.
• May have digestive and antioxidant benefits.

1 teaspoon ground coriander:

• 5 calories
• 0g fat
• 1g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Imparts a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor.
• Contains antioxidants and may have digestive benefits.

1/2 teaspoon paprika:

• 3 calories
• 0g fat
• 1g carbs
• 0g protein

benefits:

• Adds a mild, smoky flavor.
• Contains vitamins A and E.

Salt and pepper to taste:

• Amount can vary based on personal preference, minimal caloric impact

benefits:

• Enhance overall seasoning.
• Provide trace minerals and add depth to flavors.

Total Nutritional Values (Approximate):

• Calories: 2754
• Fat: 144g
• Carbohydrates: 249g
• Protein: 102g

Keep in mind that these values are rough estimates and can vary based on factors like the actual ingredients used and specific brands. Adjustments to serving sizes and ingredient choices can impact the nutritional content.