Traditional Egyptian Hawawshi: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

500 grams of ground beef
2 large onions, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of paprika
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
4 round pita breads

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (or around 400 degrees Fahrenheit).
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, black pepper, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the meat mixture to the pan and cook, stirring continuously, until the meat is browned and fully cooked. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Cut each pita bread in half and open each half to create pockets.
Divide the cooked meat mixture evenly among the pita pockets, spreading it inside each pocket.
Place the stuffed pita pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the pita bread is crispy and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ground beef and other ingredients together.
Large Pan - A pan to cook the meat mixture on the stovetop.
Baking Sheet - A sheet to place the stuffed pita pockets on for baking.
Parchment Paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Chef's Knife - A sharp knife for finely chopping the onions and parsley.
Cutting Board - A surface to safely chop the onions and parsley.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the spices.
Spatula - To stir and cook the meat mixture in the pan.
Oven - To preheat and bake the stuffed pita pockets.

Recipe variations

Use lamb or chicken instead of ground beef for a different flavor.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Include grated cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, inside the pita pockets before baking.
Replace the regular pita bread with whole wheat or gluten-free pita bread for a healthier option.
Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or mint, to customize the flavor profile.
Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas.
Add a layer of sliced tomatoes or pickles inside the pita pockets for added freshness and tanginess.
Serve with a side of tahini sauce, hummus, or tzatziki for dipping.
Grill the stuffed pita pockets on a barbecue for a smoky flavor.
Top the baked hawawshi with a drizzle of lemon juice or sprinkle of sumac for extra zest.

Recipe overview

Hawawshi is a popular Egyptian street food that consists of spiced ground beef cooked inside pita bread. This delicious and satisfying dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. Cooking Hawawshi at home is a straightforward process, and it's a fantastic way to explore Egyptian cuisine. The main ingredients for this recipe are ground beef, onions, garlic, parsley, and a blend of spices, all enveloped in round pita bread and baked to perfection. This recipe will guide you through every step of making your own Hawawshi at home. Expect a delightful combination of flavors and a meal that will leave you wanting more!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground lamb, ground chicken, or a mixture of both to suit your taste preferences.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley? Yes, you can use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley. However, the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust the quantity accordingly (around 1 tablespoon of dried parsley should be sufficient).
Is it necessary to preheat the oven? Yes, preheating the oven is important to ensure even cooking and crispy pita bread. It helps to maintain the desired temperature throughout the baking process.
Can I fry the hawawshi instead of baking it? Yes, you can fry the hawawshi in a pan with a little oil instead of baking it. Simply cook each stuffed pita pocket on both sides until crispy and golden brown.
Can I add additional spices or seasonings? Certainly! Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of cinnamon, some chili flakes, or any other spice you enjoy.
Can I prepare the meat mixture in advance? Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This can help save time when you're ready to assemble and cook the hawawshi.
What can I serve with hawawshi? Hawawshi is often enjoyed with a side of tahini sauce, pickles, or a simple salad. Some people also like to serve it with a squeeze of lemon juice or hot sauce for added flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking sheet - To place the stuffed pita pockets for baking.
Large bowl - To mix the ground beef and other ingredients together.
Large pan - To cook the meat mixture on the stovetop.
Knife - To finely chop the onions and parsley, and mince the garlic.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the spices.
Parchment paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Oven - To bake the stuffed pita pockets until crispy and golden brown.

Origin stories

Known as the Egyptian hamburger, Hawawshi is traditionally cooked in clay ovens on busy street corners in Cairo. It was invented in the 1970s by a butcher named Ahmed El Hawawshi who was simply looking for a quick way to feed a crowd. The dish quickly gained popularity and became a staple in Egyptian cuisine, beloved for its spicy, savory flavors and satisfying textures. It's the perfect street food: delicious, filling, and easy to eat on the go. Today, you'd be hard-pressed to find an Egyptian who doesn't know and love Hawawshi. The recipe has been passed down and varied over the generations, but the essence remains the same, a testament to the enduring flavor and appeal of this simple yet delicious dish.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.