Brazilian Style Safiha “Esfiha” from Middle East to Brazil!

 

esfiha box
esfiha box

Background: Esfiha in Brazil

 

Esfiha, a savory pastry originating from the Middle East, brought to Brazil by the Lebanese imigrants, and become popular by the Fast Food Chain Habib’s found a special place in Brazilian cuisine thanks to immigrants, particularly those from Lebanon and Syria. Habib’s, a popular fast-food chain, played a significant role in popularizing esfiha across Brazil, making it a beloved snack nationwide. The restaurant’s affordable prices and diverse fillings attracted a broad audience, turning esfiha into a symbol of accessible and tasty food. This cultural exchange has deeply influenced Brazilian food culture, blending Middle Eastern flavors with local tastes and making esfiha a staple in everyday life. Economically, Habib’s expansion created numerous jobs and spurred the growth of related industries. Today, mini esfiha remains a cherished part of Brazilian snacks, reflecting a successful fusion of culinary traditions.

 

Let’s Cook now

Recipe Details

Dish Name: Mini Esfiha Style Habib’s

Servings: 36 mini esfihas (12 each filling)

Time

  • Pre-preparation: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Total time: 3 hours
esfiha cheese
esfiha cheese

Ingredients

Dough:

  • All-purpose flour – 500 grams
  • Dry yeast – 10 grams
  • Sugar – 30 grams
  • Salt – 10 grams
  • Vegetable oil – 50 milliliters
  • Warm water – 300 milliliters

Beef Filling:

  • Ground beef – 300 grams
  • Onion – 100 grams, finely chopped
  • Tomato – 100 grams, finely chopped
  • Lemon juice – 30 milliliters
  • Salt – 5 grams
  • Black pepper – 2 grams
  • Parsley – 15 grams, finely chopped

Chicken Filling:

  • Cooked chicken breast – 300 grams, shredded
  • Cream cheese – 100 grams
  • Onion – 50 grams, finely chopped
  • Garlic – 5 grams, minced
  • Salt – 3 grams
  • Black pepper – 2 grams

Cheese Filling:

  • Minas cheese (or mozzarella) – 300 grams, grated
  • Oregano – 5 grams, dried

Cooking Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add oil and warm water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Let it rest for 1 hour.
  2. Beef Filling: Combine ground beef, onion, tomato, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well and set aside.
  3. Chicken Filling: Mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  4. Cheese Filling: Mix grated cheese with oregano. Set aside.
  5. Assemble Esfiha: Divide the dough into 36 small balls. Roll each ball into a small, round shape. Place a spoonful of filling (beef, chicken, or cheese) in the center of each dough. Pinch the edges to form a triangle or round shape with an open top.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place esfiha on baking sheets. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
esfiha plate
esfiha plate

Serving Directions

Serve mini esfiha warm as a snack or appetizer.

Tips and Tricks

  • Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
  • Don’t overfill the esfiha to prevent leaks.
  • Brush with egg wash before baking for a golden finish.

Allergens

  • Wheat (gluten)
  • Dairy (cheese, cream cheese)
  • May contain soy (depending on the vegetable oil used)

Best Time to Eat

Any time of the year, perfect for parties, picnics, or snacks.

Beverage Pairing

Guaraná, a popular Brazilian soda, or a cold Brahma beer.

Shopping List

  • All-purpose flour
  • Dry yeast
  • Sugar
  • Salt
  • Vegetable oil
  • Ground beef
  • Onions
  • Tomatoes
  • Lemons
  • Parsley
  • Cooked chicken breast
  • Cream cheese
  • Garlic
  • Minas cheese (or mozzarella)
  • Oregano

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