Esfirras

Esfirras Recipe from Brazil – How to Make Delicious Beef Esfirras

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Esfirras are delicious Brazilian pastries that are perfect for a snack or a meal. These savory pastries are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and red pepper, all wrapped in a soft and fluffy dough. Esfirras are a popular street food in Brazil and are enjoyed by people of all ages.

History

Esfirras have Middle Eastern origins and were brought to Brazil by Lebanese immigrants. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include local ingredients and flavors, making it a beloved Brazilian dish. Esfirras are now a staple in Brazilian cuisine and can be found in bakeries, markets, and street food stalls throughout the country.

Ingredients

4 cups (2 lb or 907 g) all-purpose flour
4 envelopes FLEISCHMANN'S RapidRise yeast
1 tbsp granulated sugar
8 oz (227 g) margarine
1 tbsp salt
2 cups milk
1 egg

Filling

3 lb (1.36 kg) ground beef
2 diced onions
2 diced ripe tomatoes
1 diced red pepper
salt and ground pepper
4 tbsp oil

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a saucepan and lightly fry onions, tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
Brown the ground beef with this mixture.
In a bowl, mix one cup of flour with yeast, sugar, and salt.
Heat milk with margarine until very warm and pour into these dry ingredients. Mix well in the bowl.
Combine the egg and remaining flour to make a soft dough.
Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Roll the dough into a rope and cut into 2-inch long pieces.
Cover and let the pieces rest for 2 hours in a warm place or until they double in size.
Flatten each piece with a rolling pin on a floured surface and place the filling in the center.
Fold the dough over the filling on three sides to wrap it into a triangular shape.
Place esfirras with the seam down on a large floured baking sheet, leaving room for the dough to rise.
Let the rolls rest for half an hour while you heat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Brush each esfirra with egg yolk and bake for 25 to 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Variations

You can customize the filling of esfirras by using different meats, vegetables, or cheeses. You can also make sweet esfirras by filling them with jam or chocolate.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the dough rest for at least 2 hours to allow it to rise and become light and fluffy.

- Brushing the esfirras with egg yolk before baking will give them a beautiful golden color.

- You can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or spices.

Serving Suggestions

Esfirras can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. They pair well with a side salad or a bowl of soup.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect esfirras is to let the dough rest and rise properly before baking. This will ensure that the pastries are light and fluffy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version of esfirras. You can also use vegetable oil instead of margarine.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and filling for esfirras ahead of time and assemble them just before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked esfirras and bake them as needed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve esfirras on a platter with a dipping sauce or garnish them with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Esfirras pair well with a glass of Brazilian caipirinha or a refreshing fruit juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Esfirras can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of esfirras contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of esfirras contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of esfirras contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of esfirras contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Esfirras are a good source of iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Esfirras contain wheat, milk, and eggs.

Summary

Esfirras are a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a snack or meal.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Esfirras, a traditional Brazilian snack that has become a family favorite. It all started when I was visiting my friend Maria, who is originally from Brazil. We were reminiscing about our childhood and the delicious foods we used to enjoy. That's when she mentioned Esfirras, a savory pastry filled with meat and spices that she used to eat growing up.

Maria was kind enough to share her family's recipe with me, and I was immediately intrigued. I had never heard of Esfirras before, but the combination of flavors sounded absolutely mouthwatering. I knew I had to give it a try.

I followed Maria's instructions carefully, mixing the dough and letting it rise until it was soft and pillowy. The filling, made with ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.

As I assembled the Esfirras, shaping the dough into small rounds and spooning the filling into the center, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. I was creating a dish that had been passed down through generations, a taste of Maria's homeland that had found its way into my kitchen.

The Esfirras baked to perfection, the dough turning golden brown and crispy, the filling bubbling and fragrant. I couldn't wait to take a bite. As I sank my teeth into the warm pastry, I was transported to Brazil, to Maria's childhood memories of family gatherings and shared meals.

I shared the Esfirras with my own family, watching as they devoured the savory pastries with delight. The flavors were a hit, the perfect balance of savory and spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes. My grandchildren begged for seconds, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have made Esfirras countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I have added a touch of garlic to the filling, or a sprinkle of cheese on top before baking. Each time, the Esfirras have turned out delicious, a reminder of the bond between friends and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Esfirras to those who have never tasted them before. Each time I make a batch, I am reminded of Maria and the generosity she showed in sharing her family's recipe with me.

As I sit at my kitchen table, savoring a freshly baked Esfirra, I am grateful for the memories and friendships that have enriched my life. Food has a way of bringing people together, of bridging cultures and creating connections that transcend language and borders. And for that, I will always be thankful.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a new recipe to try, I urge you to give Esfirras a chance. They may just become a favorite in your household, a taste of Brazil that will warm your heart and nourish your soul. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass the recipe on to a friend, creating a bond that will last a lifetime.