Tunisian meat pie

Tunisian Meat Pie Recipe - Authentic North African Cuisine

Region / culture: Tunisia | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tunisian meat pie, also known as "Brik," is a savory and flavorful dish that is popular in Tunisian cuisine. This dish features a delicious filling of ground beef, mashed potatoes, hard-cooked eggs, and a blend of spices, all encased in a crispy pastry crust. Tunisian meat pie is a perfect dish for a family meal or a special occasion.

History

Tunisian meat pie has its origins in Tunisian cuisine, which is known for its diverse and flavorful dishes. This dish is a popular street food in Tunisia and is often enjoyed as a snack or a light meal. The combination of savory meat, potatoes, and eggs in a crispy pastry crust makes Tunisian meat pie a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped
1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef chuck
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1.5 cup cooked mashed potatoes
2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
2 tbsp parsley, chopped
salt & pepper, to taste
0.5 tsp garlic powder
4 eggs, lightly beaten

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
In a skillet, brown the onion and meat in oil; remove from heat.
Mix in potatoes, chopped eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Stir in beaten eggs and blend well.
Place the mixture into a lightly greased 9-inch round pan or an ovenproof casserole.
Bake for 45 minutes.
Serve in wedges.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
Use ground lamb or chicken instead of beef for a different twist on the dish.
Experiment with different spices such as cumin, paprika, or cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the meat and onions well to develop rich flavors in the filling.

- Be sure to season the filling generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the taste of the dish.

- Use a high-quality pastry crust for a flaky and crispy texture.

- Allow the meat pie to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Tunisian meat pie can be served with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat and onions before adding them to the filling helps develop rich flavors.

- Mixing the beaten eggs into the filling helps bind the ingredients together and create a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.

- Substitute sweet potatoes or cauliflower mash for the mashed potatoes for a healthier twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Tunisian meat pie can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tunisian meat pie on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or chopped nuts for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tunisian meat pie pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing mint tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Tunisian meat pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tunisian meat pie contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tunisian meat pie contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tunisian meat pie contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Tunisian meat pie contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tunisian meat pie is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Tunisian meat pie contains eggs and wheat, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Tunisian meat pie is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Tunisian meat pie is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. With a flavorful filling of ground beef, mashed potatoes, and hard-cooked eggs, all encased in a crispy pastry crust, Tunisian meat pie is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this savory dish with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was given to me by a dear friend who had recently returned from a trip to Tunisia. She had tried this Tunisian meat pie while she was there and was raving about how delicious it was. As soon as she described the flavors and ingredients, I knew I had to try making it myself.

I have always been passionate about cooking and trying new recipes from different cultures. It's like traveling the world through food, experiencing new flavors and techniques without ever leaving my kitchen. And this Tunisian meat pie was no exception. It was a tantalizing blend of spices and aromas that I couldn't wait to recreate.

My friend had written down the recipe for me, detailing each step and ingredient with care. As I read through the instructions, I could almost taste the savory meat filling and the flaky pastry crust. I immediately set to work gathering the necessary ingredients and preparing my kitchen for this culinary adventure.

The first step was to make the dough for the crust. It was a simple mixture of flour, water, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. I kneaded the dough until it was smooth and elastic, then let it rest while I prepared the filling.

The filling was a rich combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices including cumin, coriander, and paprika. I sautéed the onions and garlic until they were soft and fragrant, then added the ground beef and spices. As the meat cooked, the aromas filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the filling was ready, I rolled out the dough and cut it into circles to form the base of the pies. I spooned the meat mixture onto each circle, then folded them over and crimped the edges to seal in the savory filling. The pies went into the oven to bake until golden brown and bubbling with deliciousness.

As I waited for the pies to bake, I thought back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from friends and family members. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, reminding me of the people and places that had influenced my culinary journey.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the Tunisian meat pies out of the oven and marveled at their golden perfection. The aroma that wafted up from the pies was intoxicating, a heady mix of spices and savory goodness. I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into one and savor the flavors that had traveled all the way from Tunisia to my kitchen.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to the bustling markets of Tunis, where the air was filled with the scents of exotic spices and grilled meats. The flavors of the meat pie were a perfect balance of savory and spiced, with a hint of sweetness from the caramelized onions. It was a symphony of tastes that danced on my tongue, leaving me craving more.

I knew that this Tunisian meat pie would become a staple in my recipe collection, a dish that I would make again and again to savor the memories of my friend's trip and the flavors of a far-off land. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and experience new cultures, and this recipe was no exception.

As I finished my last bite of meat pie, I felt grateful for the opportunity to learn and create in my kitchen. Food has a way of bringing people together, bridging gaps and creating connections that transcend borders and languages. And for that, I will always be thankful.