Hawawshi: A Flavorful and Crispy Egyptian Street Food

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Introduction

Hawawshi is a beloved Egyptian dish made with crispy pita bread stuffed with a well-seasoned ground meat filling. Packed with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, this homemade version captures the authentic flavors of Egyptian street food—perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

  • Yield: 4 Servings
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Why Make This Crispy Egyptian Hawawshi

  • Easy & Convenient: Simple ingredients and quick assembly make it ideal for busy days.
  • Aromatic Spices: Cumin, coriander, and paprika deliver a bold, unforgettable taste.
  • Versatile Meal: Serve it with tahini sauce, pickled veggies, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded experience.

How to Make Hawawshi (Egyptian Meat-Filled Pita)

Ingredients for Your Egyptian Street Food Delight

  • 500g ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped (adjust for spice)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 4 rounds of pita bread or Egyptian baladi bread

Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Hawawshi

1. Prepare the Savory Meat Filling

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil.
  2. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and any excess moisture evaporates.
  4. Stir in the tomatoes, green bell pepper, and red chili pepper; cook a few more minutes until vegetables soften.
  5. Season with cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well, cooking another 5–7 minutes until the flavors meld.

2. Assemble the Egyptian Hawawshi Pitas

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Cut each pita bread in half to create two thin rounds.
  3. Place one thin round on a baking sheet. Spoon a generous portion of the meat mixture on top, spreading evenly.
  4. Top with the other half of the pita, creating a stuffed sandwich.
  5. Repeat with remaining bread and filling.

3. Bake Your Crispy Hawawshi

  1. Place the assembled Hawawshi on a baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the bread turns golden and crispy.
  3. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley.

4. Serve and Enjoy the Egyptian Street Food Experience

  1. Serve hot, alongside tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
  2. Enjoy this delicious, crunchy, and flavorful Egyptian delight!

Tips for Perfect Hawawshi (Egyptian Stuffed Pita)

  • Extra Crispiness: Lightly brush the pita with olive oil before baking.
  • Spice It Up: Adjust chili pepper levels to your preference.
  • Grill Instead of Bake: For a smoky flavor, grill the Hawawshi instead of using the oven.

FAQs About Egyptian Hawawshi

  1. Can I make Hawawshi ahead of time?
    Yes! Prepare the meat filling in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake when ready.
  2. What can I serve with Hawawshi?
    It pairs well with tahini sauce, yogurt dip, or a simple fresh salad.
  3. Can I use a different type of bread?
    Absolutely. While pita or baladi bread is traditional, any sturdy flatbread that holds the filling works fine.

Enjoy your homemade Egyptian Hawawshi and bring a taste of Egypt right into your kitchen!

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