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Veggie-Packed Hawawshi: A Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight

Savor the Flavor: Veggie-Packed Hawawshi You’ll Love

Veggie-Packed Hawawshi: A Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight that brings vibrant flavors and versatility to your dinner table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 pitas
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Lamb Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Chopped; can use zucchini or mushrooms as alternatives.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Chopped.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Chopped; can substitute with cilantro.
For the Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adjust according to heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika for a twist.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Just a pinch.
For the Binding and Moisture
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can be omitted for drier filling.
  • 2 tablespoons Tahini Greek yogurt as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing and brushing.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for about 3–4 minutes until they turn translucent.
  2. Mix in 1 chopped green bell pepper and 1 chopped red bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
  3. Stir in 1 pound of ground beef or lamb into the skillet with vegetables. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and salt. Add black pepper and optional chili flakes to taste.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 2 tablespoons of tahini. Cook for about 7–10 minutes, stirring regularly until the meat is browned and cooked through.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly, about 5 minutes. Take halved pita breads and carefully spoon the filling into each half, packing it tightly.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the exterior of each stuffed pita with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pitaCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This recipe can be made ahead by preparing the filling in advance. It's perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

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