Let's dive into a super tasty and satisfying dish: savory brick pastry with ground meat and egg, inspired by Marmiton's recipes! This is a fantastic meal that combines the crispiness of brick pastry with a flavorful filling of seasoned ground meat and a perfectly cooked egg. Whether you're looking for a new brunch idea, a light dinner, or just something delicious to impress your friends, this recipe is a winner.

What is Brick Pastry?

Before we jump into the recipe, let's talk about brick pastry. Also known as brik pastry or malsouka, it's a thin, paper-like dough commonly used in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. It's similar to phyllo dough but has a slightly different texture, becoming incredibly crispy when baked or fried. You can usually find it in specialty stores or online, and it's worth seeking out for its unique texture and flavor.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• Brick Pastry Sheets: You'll need about 6-8 sheets, depending on the size of your pan or individual servings.
• Ground Meat: Around 500g of ground meat. Beef, lamb, or a mix of both works wonderfully. You can even use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
• Eggs: 6-8 large eggs, one for each pastry.
• Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced.
• Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh parsley and cilantro, chopped. These add a burst of freshness to the filling.
• Spices: 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat), salt, and black pepper to taste.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and brushing the pastry.
• Butter: A few tablespoons of melted butter for extra richness (optional).
• Cheese: Some grated cheese. Gruyere, cheddar, or mozzarella would be delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these steps to create your savory brick pastry:

1. Prepare the Meat Filling

First, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Next, add the ground meat to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until the spices are well combined and the meat is evenly seasoned. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley and cilantro. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Assemble the Brick Pastries

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking sheet or a pie dish with olive oil. Lay one sheet of brick pastry on the prepared surface. Brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Place another sheet on top, repeating the brushing process. This layering helps to create a crispy and sturdy base.

If you're making individual pastries, cut the brick pastry sheets into squares or circles. If you're using a pie dish, simply layer the sheets to cover the bottom and sides, allowing some overhang. Spoon the meat filling evenly over the pastry. Make small wells in the filling, one for each egg.

3. Add the Eggs and Cheese

Gently crack an egg into each well in the meat filling. Sprinkle some grated cheese over the top. The cheese adds a lovely flavor and helps to bind everything together.

4. Bake to Perfection

Fold the overhanging edges of the brick pastry over the filling, creating a sealed parcel. Brush the top with olive oil or melted butter for a golden and crispy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the eggs are cooked to your liking. If you prefer a runny yolk, reduce the baking time slightly.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the pastry is golden brown and the eggs are cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy pastry, flavorful meat filling, and perfectly cooked egg!

Tips for Success

• Don't Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the pastry, as it can become difficult to fold and may leak during baking.
• Keep the Pastry Moist: Brick pastry can dry out quickly, so keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while you're working with them.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings. Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs make a big difference in the flavor of the dish, so don't skip them!

Variations and Ideas

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with lentils, chickpeas, or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the meat filling for a spicy kick.
• Breakfast Pastry: Add some cooked bacon or sausage to the filling for a hearty breakfast pastry.
• Individual Portions: Make individual pastries for easy serving and portion control. Simply cut the brick pastry into smaller squares or circles and assemble as directed.

Why This Recipe Rocks

This savory brick pastry with ground meat and egg is a fantastic dish for so many reasons. First, it's incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Second, it's relatively easy to make, especially once you get the hang of working with brick pastry. And third, it's absolutely delicious! The combination of crispy pastry, flavorful meat filling, and perfectly cooked egg is simply irresistible.

Health Considerations

When enjoying this dish, it's important to consider the nutritional content. Ground meat can be high in fat, so opt for leaner varieties like ground turkey or chicken. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese. Adding plenty of vegetables to the filling can also help to boost the nutritional value of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This savory brick pastry is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the pastry. You can also serve it with some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a side of couscous or quinoa.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a quick and easy dinner, or just want to treat yourself to something special, this savory brick pastry with ground meat and egg is a perfect choice. It's sure to impress your family and friends, and it's a dish that you'll want to make again and again.

Brick Pastry: A Culinary Adventure

Exploring brick pastry in your cooking opens up a world of delicious possibilities. Its delicate, crispy texture adds a unique dimension to both sweet and savory dishes. This recipe is just a starting point. Experiment with different fillings, spices, and herbs to create your own signature brick pastry creations. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, working with brick pastry is a rewarding culinary adventure.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a mouthwatering savory brick pastry with ground meat and egg recipe that's sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a culinary masterpiece. Happy cooking, guys! And remember, the most important ingredient is always love!

Enjoy this delightful and flavorful dish, and don't forget to share your creations with friends and family. Bon appétit!