Lahm Bi-Ajin
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 6 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
- 500 g ground beef (minced beef with fat)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp hot pepper paste (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Combine lukewarm water, active dry yeast, and sugar In a large mixing bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
- Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, tomatoes finely chopped, salt, black pepper, paprika, and hot pepper paste (if using). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions and roll each into a thin circle on a floured surface.
- Place the rolled-out dough circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a generous amount of the prepared filling mixture evenly over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are golden brown and crispy, and the filling is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving
- Serve Lahm bi-ajin warm, on its own or accompanied by a squeeze of lemon juice, tahini sauce, or your favourite condiments.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade Lahm bi-ajin!