How to Make Egyptian Hawawshi

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Egyptian Hawawshi: A Delicious Stuffed Flatbread Recipe

If you’re looking to try a new and exciting dish from Egyptian cuisine, Hawawshi is a must! This savory stuffed flatbread is filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced ground beef, onions, and peppers, all baked to golden perfection.

Egyptian Hawawshi is a popular street food in Egypt and is often enjoyed as a hearty snack or meal. In this post, I’ll guide you through making this delicious recipe at home, share some tips for perfecting it, and offer variations to suit your taste.

What is Egyptian Hawawshi?

Hawawshi is a traditional Egyptian dish consisting of bread stuffed with spiced minced meat, onions, and vegetables, then baked or grilled.

The filling is packed with flavor from a mix of warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and paprika. The bread used can be Egyptian baladi bread (a type of pita) or flatbread.

Once baked, the bread becomes crispy on the outside, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful thanks to the meat and vegetable filling.

It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a street food snack!

Ingredients for Egyptian Hawawshi

To make this delicious Egyptian Hawawshi at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ground Beef or Lamb: Ground beef is the most common choice, but lamb works well if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness and texture to the filling.
• Bell Peppers: Adds color, crunch, and flavor.
• Tomato: Adds moisture and a bit of acidity to balance the spices.
• Garlic: Essential for flavoring the meat filling.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, herbaceous note to the dish.
• Spices: A blend of cumin, cinnamon, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper gives the meat filling its signature flavor.
• Bread: Use Egyptian baladi bread, pita bread, or flatbread for the hawawshi. If you can’t find baladi bread, regular pita works great.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For brushing the bread to give it a golden, crispy exterior.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Egyptian Hawawshi

1. Prepare the Filling
Start by finely chopping the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and tomato. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, chopped vegetables, minced garlic, and parsley.

2. Season the Filling
Add the spices to the meat mixture: 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of coriander, salt, and pepper to taste.

Mix everything together until well combined. The vegetables should be evenly distributed throughout the meat, and the spices should coat everything.

3. Stuff the Bread
Take the pita bread or baladi bread and carefully cut it open to create a pocket. If you're using flatbread, you can lay the bread flat and fold it over the filling like a sandwich.

Stuff each piece of bread with a generous amount of the meat filling, spreading it evenly inside the pocket.

4. Brush with Oil
Brush both sides of the stuffed bread with olive oil or melted butter. This helps the bread get crispy and golden during baking.

5. Bake the Hawawshi
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the meat is fully cooked.

You can also grill the hawawshi on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally for an extra smoky flavor.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the Hawawshi is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious homemade Egyptian hawawshi with a side of tahini sauce, salad, or yogurt for dipping.

Tips for the Best Egyptian Hawawshi

1. Use Fresh Spices: For the most flavorful hawawshi, make sure your spices are fresh. Ground cumin, cinnamon, and paprika are essential for that classic Egyptian taste.
2. Choose Good Quality Bread: If you can find Egyptian baladi bread, it’s the best option for an authentic hawawshi experience. If not, regular pita or flatbread will work well. Just make sure it’s fresh and sturdy enough to hold the filling.
3. Don’t Overstuff the Bread: While it’s tempting to pack the bread with as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the bread to tear. Aim for a moderate amount of filling that allows the bread to close easily.
4. Brush with Olive Oil: Brushing the bread with olive oil before baking helps it get crispy and golden. You can also use melted butter for a richer flavor.
5. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier hawawshi, you can add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the meat filling.
6. Use a Grill for Extra Flavor: While baking is the traditional method, grilling your hawawshi adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just be sure to keep an eye on it and turn it frequently to avoid burning.

Creative Variations for Egyptian Hawawshi

• Vegetarian Hawawshi: Replace the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or a mix of mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegan alternative.
• Cheese-Stuffed Hawawshi: Add a handful of grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for a cheesy twist on the traditional recipe.
• Spicy Hawawshi: For those who like a little heat, add chopped chili peppers or a spoonful of harissa to the meat filling.
• Lamb and Beef Mix: Use a combination of ground beef and lamb for a richer flavor. The lamb adds a distinct depth that pairs beautifully with the spices.
• Herb-Infused Hawawshi: Add more fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or dill to the meat mixture for an extra layer of freshness.

How to Store and Reheat Egyptian Hawawshi

Egyptian Hawawshi is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply place the hawawshi in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.

You can also freeze uncooked hawawshi for up to 3 months.

Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and bake them straight from frozen when you’re ready to eat—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

• With Tahini Sauce: Serve your hawawshi with a side of tahini sauce or yogurt for dipping. The creamy, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the savory meat filling.
• With a Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing complements the richness of the hawawshi.
• With Pickles: Pickled vegetables, especially pickled turnips or cucumbers, are a classic side to serve with hawawshi in Egypt. They add a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the dish.

With this easy recipe and these helpful tips, you can make Egyptian Hawawshi at home and enjoy the delicious flavors of this traditional dish.

It’s a wonderful option for family dinners, casual lunches, or even as a party snack. Enjoy experimenting with your own variations and savor the rich taste of Egypt!

Feel free to share your own tips, variations, or experiences making Egyptian Hawawshi in the comments below. Let’s keep cooking and exploring global flavors together!

Enjoy this Easy video tutorial about Egyptian Hawawshi

Source: The Mediterranean Dish

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