Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 76 reviews

Egyptian Beef Goulash (Phyllo Beef Pie) is a traditional savory pie featuring layers of crisp phyllo pastry filled with fragrant spiced ground beef or lamb, toasted nuts, and a rich milk-egg mixture. Baked until golden and crisp, this dish offers a delicious combination of textures and warm Middle Eastern flavors, making it perfect for a family meal or special occasion.

  • Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
  • Yield: 6–8 servings

Ingredients

Phyllo Base

  • 250g (8 oz) phyllo dough sheets, thawed overnight (about 8 sheets)
  • 120ml (1/2 cup) melted butter, olive oil, or a mix of both (for brushing)

Meat Filling

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 500g (18 oz) ground beef or lamb
  • 1 tbsp baharat, 7-spice, or 9-spice blend
  • 1 tsp nutmeg, preferably freshly grated
  • 50g (1.7 oz) slivered almonds or pine nuts, toasted
  • 2 tbsp tamarind paste
  • Salt, to taste

Milk-Egg Mixture

  • 250ml (1 cup) full-fat milk
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with melted butter or oil to prevent sticking and ensure golden crust.
  2. Cook Onions: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped fresh thyme leaves. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Cook until browned through, breaking the meat apart with a spoon for even cooking.
  5. Season the Filling: Season the meat mixture with baharat or your chosen spice blend, freshly grated nutmeg, salt to taste, toasted nuts, and tamarind paste. Stir well and cook for 2–3 additional minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. Assemble Base Layers: Brush the bottom of the prepared baking dish with melted butter. Lay half of the phyllo sheets one by one, brushing each sheet with melted butter to build a crispy, flaky foundation.
  7. Add Filling: Evenly spread the cooled meat mixture over the layered phyllo base.
  8. Top Layers: Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the meat, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter to ensure crispness and rich flavor.
  9. Score the Pie: Using a sharp knife, lightly score the top layer of phyllo into squares or diamond shapes to make slicing easier after baking.
  10. Add Milk-Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the full-fat milk and egg until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the assembled pie, allowing it to soak into the layers.
  11. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes until the phyllo is golden brown and crisp on top.
  12. Rest and Serve: Remove the goulash from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to set the filling before slicing along the scored lines and serving warm.

Notes

  • Keep phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
  • You can substitute ground beef with lamb for a richer and more traditional Egyptian flavor.
  • Tamarind paste adds a subtle tanginess to balance the spices—optional but highly recommended for authentic taste.
  • This goulash works well as a hearty main dish or served as an appetizer in smaller portions.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Egyptian

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/egyptian-beef-goulash-phyllo-beef-pie-recipe/