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Sfiha Yafawia

Sfiha Yafawia is a traditional Palestinian dish consisting of a savory meat-filled spiral pie. The filling is rich with sumac-seasoned meat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Middle Eastern, Palestinian
Servings 16 pieces

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup water

For the filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil

Instructions
 

Instructions for the Dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Add the olive oil and gradually add the water while kneading the mixture until a smooth and elastic dough forms.
  • Drizzle a small amount of olive oil onto the bottom of the mixing bowl. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
  • While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Begin by cooking the ground meat in a skillet until it’s browned. Season it with salt and pepper.
  • Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they turn translucent.
  • After cooking the meat and onions, turn off the heat and sprinkle sumac over the mixture. 
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Dividing the rested dough into 8 equal portions. shape them into balls. Dip each ball into a small bowl of olive oil and sit aside.
  • Lightly oil a clean surface, Roll out each dough ball into a thin circle.
  •  Once the dough is rolled out, switch to hand-stretching. Carefully lift the edges of the dough and gently stretch them outward, working your way around the circle, until it becomes thin enough to see through.
  •  Carefully place approximately two tablespoons of the prepared filling onto one end of the dough circle.
  • With the filling in place, roll the dough tightly to enclose the filling, using about two folds for a secure seal.
  • Carefully roll up the dough to create a swirl or spiral shape, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Each circle typically yields two Sfiha Yafawia. Cut gently.
  • Place the shaped Sfiha Yafawia on an oiled baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking and prevent sticking.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the pies are golden brown.
  • Brush the baked Sfiha Yafawia with olive oil while warm to enhance flavor and moisture. For a tender texture, cover them with a towel to trap moisture. For a crispy texture, place them on a cooling rack to promote air circulation.
  • Serve the Sfiha Yafawia warm, and enjoy!
Keyword meat pie, Middle eastern recipe, Palestinian recipes, sfiha recipe, sfiha yafawia, sfiha yafawieh