Lebanese Meat Pies

 

Authentic Saj Fatayer (Lebanese Meat Pies)

Soft, light, and incredibly flavorful, these homemade Saj Fatayer are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine. The dough is fluffy yet tender, making it the perfect base for a delicious seasoned beef filling. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these traditional meat pies are always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast

• 1 cup warm water

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons powdered milk

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil or olive oil

• 2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour

For the Meat Filling

• 1 lb ( 300 g) lean ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon ground allspice

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. Dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water and let it stand for 10 minutes, until the yeast becomes foamy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of the sifted flour, the sugar, salt, and powdered milk.

3. After the yeast has rested, pour the yeast mixture and the vegetable oil (or olive oil) into the bowl. Stir until well combined.

4. Cover the bowl and let the mixture rest for 20 minutes.

5. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

6. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until smooth, soft, and elastic.

7. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Meat Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, tomatoes, parsley, garlic, tomato paste, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, allspice, cinnamon, paprika, and cumin.

2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.

3. Refrigerate the filling while the dough rises. This helps the flavors develop.

Assemble the Fatayer

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Divide the dough into 12 to 15 equal pieces.

3. Roll each piece into a circle about 4–5 inches (10–12 cm) in diameter.

4. Arrange the dough circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

5. Spread approximately 2 tablespoons of the meat filling over each circle, leaving a narrow border around the edges.

Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and the meat is fully cooked.

If you prefer a softer crust, brush the edges lightly with melted butter immediately after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with:

• Plain yogurt

• Fresh lemon wedges

• Pickles

• A cucumber and tomato salad

• Fresh mint leaves

These meat pies also pair beautifully with hot tea or Arabic coffee.

Storage

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use lean ground beef to prevent excess moisture.

• Chop the vegetables very finely for an even texture.

• Avoid overfilling the dough.

• Fresh lemon juice enhances the traditional Middle Eastern flavor.

• Preparing the filling a few hours in advance allows the spices to blend even better.

Enjoy these authentic homemade Saj Fatayer—soft, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends!