How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the meat filling a day in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready.

What can I substitute for smoked paprika?

Regular paprika with a dash of liquid smoke can mimic the flavor.

How do I reheat the wraps?

Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispness.

Can this dish be made vegetarian?

Substitute the meat with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils for a veg-friendly version.

Smoky Egyptian Hawawshi Wraps with Fresh Mint and Lemon

Name: Smoky Egyptian Hawawshi Wraps with Fresh Mint and Lemon
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 500g ground beef or lamb; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large pita breads; Olive oil for brushing; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh mint leaves; Lemon wedges

Flavorsome meat-filled pita pockets

Savor the smoky, aromatic allure of Egyptian street food with these delightful Hawawshi wraps, enriched with fresh mint and lemon.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

Meat Filling

500g ground beef or lamb

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Pita Wrap

4 large pita breads

Olive oil for brushing

2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh Herb Garnish

Fresh mint leaves

Lemon wedges

Preparation

Preparing the Meat Filling

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.

Add spices

Add smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Marinate

Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Use a sealed container for even marination.

Assembling the Wraps

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).

Stuff pitas

Cut each pita into a pocket and stuff generously with the meat mixture.

Brush with oil

Brush the outside of the pita with olive oil for crispness.

Be sure to not overfill the pita to prevent breaking.

Cooking Process

Seal the Wraps

Ensure the edges of the pita are tightly sealed to avoid leakage.

Bake

Place the wraps on a baking tray and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.

Final Touch

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the wraps immediately after baking.

Plating & Serving