Egyptian Hawawshi Recipe

A cherished culinary staple, this dish embodies the heart of Egyptian cuisine, beloved by locals and travelers alike. Savored in bustling street markets and cozy home kitchens, it represents more than just a meal—it’s a delicious slice of Egyptian cultural tradition.

Yield: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• Ground beef or lamb – 500g
• Onion (finely chopped) – 1
• Cloves garlic (minced) – 2
• Tomatoes (finely chopped) – 2
• Green bell pepper (finely chopped) – 1
• Red chili pepper (finely chopped) – 1 (adjust to taste)
• Ground cumin – 1 tsp
• Ground coriander – 1 tsp
• Paprika – 1/2 tsp
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped) – for garnish
• Pita bread or Egyptian baladi bread – 4 rounds

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent.
2. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it browns and any excess moisture evaporates.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, green bell pepper, and red chili pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Season the mixture with ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Take each round of pita bread and cut it in half to create two thin rounds.
6. Place one of the thin rounds on a baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the meat filling onto the bread, spreading it evenly.
7. Top with the remaining thin round of bread, creating a
   sandwich. Repeat the process for the remaining bread and filling.
8. Place the Hawawshi sandwiches in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
10. Serve your homemade Hawawshi hot.