Feteer Meshaltet, also known as Egyptian layered pie, is a rich and flaky pastry that dates back to ancient Egypt. This dish was originally made as an offering to the gods, but it has now become a beloved part of Egyptian cuisine, enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings.
The flavor of Feteer Meshaltet is uniquely buttery, with a flaky texture that nearly melts in your mouth. It can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of sweet or savory fillings, making it incredibly versatile and appealing to a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 kg Flour
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- Approximately 700 ml Warm water
- 1 tablespoon Salt
- Vegetable oil (for tray greasing and fat mixture)
- ½ cup Vegetable oil (for fat mixture)
- ½ cup Melted butter (for fat mixture)
Preparation
- Mix the flour, sugar, instant yeast, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Gradually add warm water while mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for half an hour.
- Combine vegetable oil and melted butter to create the fat mixture.
- Grease a tray with a little oil.
- Divide the dough into three large pieces and 30 smaller pieces.
- Lubricate all dough pieces with the fat mixture and let them rest for 10 minutes.
- On a lightly oiled surface, spread one large dough piece by hand and set it aside.
- Spread the smaller pieces using the fat mixture and stack them on top of the large piece. Repeat with 10 small pieces at a time.
- Trim the edges of the large dough piece with a knife as necessary.
- Cover the dough and let it rest.
- Repeat the process for the remaining two large dough pieces and small dough pieces.
- Brush a pan with a little oil and preheat it to a heat slightly less than medium.
- Place the first pie in the pan and puncture it with a wooden stick or knife as it rises to ensure even cooking.
- Cook until the pie is golden brown on both sides.
- Enjoy the great taste of Feteer Meshaltet, and I recommend trying it with different fillings!
Did you know?
Feteer Meshaltet is often described as Egypt’s answer to pizza due to its versatility and communal appeal. Traditionally, it can be found sold by street vendors during local festivals or in bakeries across Egypt. Each family often has its own cherished variant of the recipe, adding to its rich cultural tapestry.
Interestingly, the word “meshaltet” can be translated to “cushioned,” hinting at the pastry’s unique calories-rich and layered nature. Unlike pizza’s tomato and cheese toppings, feteer is filled with varied ingredients ranging from honey and cream for sweet versions to minced meat and vegetables for savory ones. Egyptian folklore even mentions that the best Feteer Meshaltet is made with freshly churned butter, emphasizing its easy, yet artisanal nature.
Whether you’re an enthusiastic home cook or an adventurous eater looking to experience authentic Egyptian cuisine, this traditional recipe is a must-try. It’s not only about indulging in a savory delight but also connecting with a piece of Egyptian heritage.
