Saudi Arabian Mutabbaq Recipe

Mutabbaq, a popular street food in Saudi Arabia, is a pan-fried bread stuffed with a flavorful filling of meat, onions, and spices. The name Mutabbaq means ‘folded’, which aptly describes how this delicious treat is prepared. Here’s a recipe that guides you on how to create this delightful snack right in your own kitchen.

Try our other recipes here

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 500 grams ground beef or mutton
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 bunch of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Approximately 1 cup of water

Also:

• Additional oil for frying
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the ground meat, onions, green chilies, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is thoroughly browned and the onions are soft. Add the chopped coriander and stir. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and olive oil. Gradually add water, mixing until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Mutabbaq: Divide the dough into equal-sized balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll out a dough ball into a thin, flat circle. Place a generous amount of the meat filling in the center of the dough circle, leaving a border around the edge. Pour some beaten egg over the filling. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a square packet. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
4. Cook the Mutabbaq: Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place a mutabbaq in the pan and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining mutabbaq.
5. Serve the Mutabbaq: Cut the cooked mutabbaq into squares or triangles and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with a side of yogurt or your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy the enticing flavors of this traditional Saudi Arabian Mutabbaq, a perfect snack for any time of the day!

Please note: The ingredients and cooking times listed in this recipe are approximations and may need to be adjusted to personal taste or cooking conditions. As with all cooking, feel free to experiment to make your Mutabbaq just right!

Try our other recipes here