Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) – A Delectable 30-Minute Meal

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted my grandma’s Egyptian beef goulash. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma of spices and simmering meat had filled the entire house. As I took that first bite, the flavors exploded in my mouth – the tender beef, the warm blend of aromatic spices, and the flaky phyllo crust that enveloped it all. From that moment on, I knew this dish would hold a special place in my heart.

Egyptian beef goulash, or phyllo beef pie as it’s sometimes called, is a true culinary treasure. It’s a dish that blends the rich, comforting flavors of a classic goulash with the delicate, flaky texture of a phyllo pastry crust. The result is a dish that’s both hearty and elegant, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Why This Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)

What sets this Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the carefully selected spices and the way they’re incorporated into the dish. The blend of paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves creates a depth of flavor that’s both warm and inviting, while the tender beef and flaky phyllo crust provide a delightful contrast in texture.

But it’s not just the flavors that make this recipe special. The technique is equally important. By searing the beef first, you lock in the juices and create a delicious caramelized crust. And the addition of the tomato paste and broth ensures that the meat remains tender and the sauce is rich and velvety.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) masterpiece, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes: This hearty cut of beef is perfect for stewing, as it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when cooked low and slow.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: The oil is essential for searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
• 1 large onion, diced: The onion provides a sweet, savory base for the goulash, complementing the spices beautifully.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have ingredient, adding a pungent aroma and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon paprika: This warm, earthy spice is the cornerstone of the goulash’s flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin lends an earthy, slightly nutty note that balances the other spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Coriander adds a subtle citrusy undertone, brightening the dish.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon provides a cozy, slightly sweet note that ties the flavors together.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: A small amount of cloves adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
• 1 cup beef broth: The broth is the foundation of the sauce, ensuring the meat remains tender and the flavors meld together.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: The tomatoes add a touch of acidity and balance the richness of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: The tomato paste thickens the sauce and enhances the tomato flavor.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: These simple seasonings help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed if frozen: The flaky, crisp phyllo crust is the crowning glory of this dish.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: The butter helps the phyllo dough achieve its signature golden-brown hue and flakiness.

Step-by-Step Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Instructions

Preparing Your Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)

Preparing this Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) is a straightforward process that takes just 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking time, for a total of 60 minutes. You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven and a baking dish to assemble the final dish.

1- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and sear it on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, until a nice golden-brown crust forms. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and adding depth of flavor.

2- Next, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.

3- Sprinkle in the paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir the spices into the beef and onion mixture, and let them toast for about a minute to intensify their aroma and flavor.

4- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, including the juices from the can. Stir in the tomato paste until it’s fully incorporated. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.

5- Once the goulash is ready, preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish with a bit of the melted butter. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing it lightly with the melted butter. Repeat this process with the remaining 7 sheets of phyllo, overlapping them slightly and brushing each one with butter.

6- Spoon the beef goulash mixture into the phyllo-lined baking dish, smoothing the top. Fold the overhanging phyllo dough over the filling, creating a rustic, pleated effect. Brush the top with any remaining melted butter. Bake the phyllo beef pie for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden-brown and crispy.

Pro Tips for Success

• To ensure your beef is fork-tender, be sure to simmer the goulash for the full 30 minutes. This allows the connective tissues to break down, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth meat.
• When working with phyllo dough, keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. This will make them easier to handle and ensure a flaky crust.
• For an extra-crispy phyllo topping, try sprinkling a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
• If you find the phyllo crust is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
• To add a hint of tanginess, try stirring in a tablespoon of red wine vinegar or lemon juice to the goulash mixture before assembling the pie.

Serving and Storing Your Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)

Perfect Pairings for Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)

This Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) is a hearty, flavorful dish that serves 6 people. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a crusty loaf of bread, which can be used to soak up the rich, savory sauce. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it with a bright, herbal white wine or a light, fruity red.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the entire dish in advance and freeze it before baking. Wrap the unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed in the recipe.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie)

Creative Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Variations

• Swap out the beef for lamb or chicken for a twist on the traditional recipe.
• Add diced potatoes or roasted root vegetables to the goulash for a heartier, more substantial dish.
• Experiment with different spice blends, such as adding a touch of smoked paprika or harissa for a hint of heat.
• Replace the phyllo crust with a flaky puff pastry or a classic pie dough for a different texture.

Making Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Diet-Friendly

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free phyllo dough or substitute a gluten-free flour-based pie crust. For a vegan or vegetarian version, swap the beef for portobello mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative, and use a vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

If you’re watching your carb intake, you can serve the goulash filling over roasted spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice instead of the phyllo crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef besides chuck?
A: While chuck is the traditional choice for goulash, you can also use other well-marbled cuts like beef shoulder or brisket. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat becomes tender.

Q: How can I make the phyllo crust extra crispy?
A: For an extra-crispy phyllo crust, brush each layer generously with melted butter or olive oil. You can also try sprinkling a bit of Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs between the layers.

Q: Can I freeze the leftover Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie)?
A: Absolutely! The goulash filling freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating and assembling the phyllo crust.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) recipe yields 6 servings. If you’re serving it as a main dish, it should be enough for 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.

Q: What if my phyllo dough cracks or tears while assembling the pie?
A: Don’t worry, a few cracks or tears in the phyllo dough won’t ruin the dish. Just do your best to gently press the dough into the baking dish, and the final result will still be delicious.

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Conclusion

Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) is a true culinary gem that deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire. With its tender, flavorful beef, aromatic spices, and flaky phyllo crust, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try today and experience the comforting warmth and rich flavors that make this recipe a true standout. And don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos with me – I’d love to hear how your Egyptian beef goulash (phyllo beef pie) turns out!