Middle Eastern Beef Pastilla

Prev List Next
Middle Eastern Beef Pastilla AI-generated image
45 minTotal time
IntermediateDifficulty
480kcal / serving

Ingredients

For 1 serving

Ingredient substitutions

  • Ground beef Ground lamb in the same amount for a similarly rich, savory filling.
  • Dried apricots An equal amount of chopped raisins for a similar sweet, chewy element.
  • Almonds An equal amount of chopped walnuts for another crunchy nut.

Nutrition per serving

Estimated values for 1 serving, 480 kcal

Protein20 g
Carbohydrates47 g
Fat24 g

Fiber 4 g · Sugar 13 g · Sodium 490 mg

PDF Find nearby

A savory and flaky pastry filled with spiced beef, nuts, and dried fruits, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar - a delightful Middle Eastern treat.

Middle Eastern

Steps

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a pan, cook the ground beef until browned. Add onions, garlic, almonds, pistachios, apricots, dates, and spices. Cook until onions are soft.
  3. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough, brush with melted butter. Repeat with 2 more sheets.
  4. Place the beef mixture in the center of the phyllo dough. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up like a burrito.
  5. Brush the top with butter and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden.
  6. Let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips for Middle Eastern Beef Pastilla

  • A well-sealed parcel helps keep the filling in place; patch any tears with a small buttered piece of phyllo.
  • The pastry is ready when evenly golden and crisp, while the center feels hot and the filling is no longer loose.
  • Keep unused phyllo covered with a barely damp towel; exposed sheets dry out and become brittle quickly.

Drink pairing

A medium-bodied red like a Grenache
Its ripe fruit and gentle spice complement the warm spices, dried fruit, and savory beef without overwhelming the flaky pastry.

0% option: Mint tea

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in a covered container and use within 3–4 days. Reheat until steaming hot; the pastry may be less crisp after storage.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell when the pastilla is done?
Look for an evenly golden, crisp exterior and a hot center. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the remaining bake.

Can I assemble it ahead?
For the crispest pastry, assemble shortly before baking. You can prepare the filling ahead, refrigerate it, and let it cool before wrapping.

Why did my phyllo tear?
Phyllo dries out quickly when uncovered. Keep the sheets covered while working, and handle them gently; small tears can be patched with another piece.
You May Also Like
Middle Eastern Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma
Middle Eastern Falafel Wrap
Middle Eastern Fusion Flautas
Middle Eastern Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta
Roasted Carrots with Middle Eastern Spices
Middle Eastern Stuffed Grape Leaves
Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Whole Grain Spaghetti
Classic Chicken Kabsa