Meat Fatayer – Traditional Middle Eastern Meat Pies

 

Meat Fatayer are golden, triangle-shaped pastries filled with a spiced mixture of ground beef or lamb, onions, and aromatic herbs. Popular throughout the Levant, especially in Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and Jordan, these savory hand pies are perfect as appetizers, lunch snacks, or part of a mezze spread.

What Are Meat Fatayer?

Fatayer (فطاير) are savory pastries that can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or meat. Meat Fatayer feature a flavorful minced meat filling tucked inside soft, slightly chewy dough, shaped into triangles or boats and baked to golden perfection. They're easy to carry, easy to eat, and packed with satisfying flavor.

History and Origin

The word "fatayer" comes from Arabic, meaning “pie.” This dish dates back centuries in the Levantine region, where meat-filled pastries were part of communal feasts and celebrations. Every country and household has its own twist on the seasoning, dough thickness, and meat choice, making Fatayer a deeply personal dish as well as a cultural treasure.

Ingredients

Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 to 1 ¼ cup warm water

Meat Filling:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef or lamb
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses (optional, for tanginess)
• Juice of half a lemon

How to Make Meat Fatayer – Step by Step

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add olive oil and slowly pour in warm water, kneading as you go, until a soft, elastic dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions until soft and translucent.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
4. Mix in allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in chopped parsley, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses (if using).
6. Let the mixture cool completely before filling the dough.

3. Assemble the Fatayer

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into a 4–5 inch circle.
3. Add a spoonful of the cooled meat mixture to the center.
4. Fold into a triangle by pinching three sides together. Seal edges well to prevent opening.

4. Bake

1. Place fatayer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Brush tops with a little olive oil or egg wash for color.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.

Why You’ll Love Meat Fatayer

• Easy to make in large batches for freezing or meal prep.
• Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or potlucks.
• Customizable with different spices and herbs.
• Can be made with beef or lamb.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t overfill or the fatayer might burst open during baking.
• Allow the meat filling to cool completely before using—it prevents soggy dough.
• Add a spoonful of tahini or Greek yogurt for creamier texture in the filling.
• Use parchment paper for a crispy bottom and easy cleanup.

How to Store and Freeze

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• Freeze: Place baked fatayer in freezer bags. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with mint yogurt or tzatziki dip.
• Pair with tabbouleh, fattoush, or cucumber salad.
• Enjoy with Arabic tea or pomegranate juice.

Variations

• Cheese and Meat: Add shredded mozzarella or feta for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy: Mix in red chili flakes or harissa for a spicy kick.
• Mini Fatayer: Make bite-sized versions for parties or mezze platters.

Nutrition and Benefits

While fatayer are indulgent, they also provide important nutrients when made with quality ingredients:

• Protein: From beef or lamb, great for muscle repair and energy.
• Iron and Zinc: Help boost immunity and oxygen transport.
• Parsley: Rich in vitamin K and antioxidants.
• Homemade Dough: Avoids preservatives found in store-bought pastries.

Conclusion

Meat Fatayer are a true gem of Arabic cuisine—flavorful, portable, and comforting. Whether you’re preparing for a special gathering or just a cozy evening, this recipe delivers authenticity and satisfaction. Bake a batch today and enjoy the taste of tradition!

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