Description
Egyptian Goulash is a savory phyllo meat pie featuring a flavorful mixture of lean ground beef seasoned with aromatic spices and tomato paste, layered between crisp, buttery phyllo sheets. This traditional Middle Eastern-inspired dish is baked to golden perfection, making it a delicious and satisfying main course for family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Meat Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1.5 lb lean ground beef (650-700g)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp seven spices or all spice
- 2 heaped tbsp tomato paste
Phyllo Layers & Assembly
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (56 g)
- 16 oz package phyllo dough, thawed (450g)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the meat mixture: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking up any clumps, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the pan then return to heat.
- Season the meat: Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, seven spices (or all spice), and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors. Set aside the meat filling while preparing the phyllo layers.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and allow it to fully preheat for baking.
- Prepare the phyllo layering: Combine olive oil and melted butter. Lightly brush the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking pan with this mixture. Layer 2-3 sheets of phyllo at a time on the bottom, brushing each layer generously with the butter-oil blend. Repeat this until about half of the phyllo sheets are used.
- Add the meat filling: Spread the prepared ground beef mixture evenly over the layered phyllo in the pan.
- Finish layering phyllo: Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets in groups of 2-3, brushing generously with the butter-oil mixture between each layer until all sheets are used.
- Score the pie: Using a sharp knife, cut the phyllo pie into even squares or diagonal slices all the way through to the bottom of the pan to ease serving after baking.
- Prepare egg wash: Whisk together the egg, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the phyllo pie to help moisten and promote golden browning.
- Bake: Place the pan in the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. Egyptian Goulash pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions to prevent tearing.
- Brush phyllo sheets generously with the butter-oil mixture to ensure crispiness and prevent drying.
- Use a sharp knife to score the pie before baking to make serving easier.
- Seven spices or all spice can be substituted with a blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and pepper for similar flavor.
- Pair with yogurt or a fresh salad to balance flavors and add freshness.
