Name: Traditional Hawawshi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Egyptian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef; 4 garlic cloves; 1 green pepper, seeded and roughly chopped; 1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped; 1 tomato; 1 jalapeño (optional, for heat); 1 Tbsp Baharat spice (see below); 2-3 Tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley; salt to taste; 3 Greek or Egyptian pita breads; Neutral oil, such as olive oil (for brushing); 1 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp ground coriander; 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1 1/2 tsp ground paprika (or smoked paprika for depth); 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cardamom

1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2

In a food processor, combine onion, bell pepper, tomato, jalapeño, and garlic. Blend into a smooth purée (add a splash of water if needed).

3

Transfer the purée to a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture — this step helps avoid soggy bread.

4

In a large mixing bowl, combine the veggie mixture with the ground beef, parsley, baharat spice, and a generous pinch of salt. Mix until fully combined.

5

Slice pita breads in half. If they don’t naturally form pockets, carefully use a serrated knife to create an opening.

6

Stuff each pita pocket with the meat mixture, pressing gently to distribute evenly.

7

Place stuffed pitas on a baking sheet and brush both sides with oil.

8

Bake for 14–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

9

Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Hawawshi with a squeeze of lemon or a side of tahini or yogurt dip.