Cretan Pie
Cretan Pie is a comforting dish featuring flaky phyllo pastry filled with spiced lamb or beef, making it a versatile favorite for various occasions.
Ingrédients
Filling Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp allspice
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
Pastry Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo pastry
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Cook the Base
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Ground Meat and Spices
- Add ground lamb or beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Sprinkle in cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
Incorporate Broth and Simmer
- Pour in broth and stir. Simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the mixture reduces slightly.
Prepare Baking Dish
- Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Layer Phyllo Pastry
- Layer sheets of phyllo in the greased dish, brushing each with melted butter.
Spread the Meat Mixture
- Pour the cooked meat mixture over the phyllo.
Top with More Phyllo
- Layer additional phyllo sheets over the meat, brushing each with butter.
Bake the Cretan Pie
- Place the pie in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Cooling and Serving
- Let the pie cool slightly before cutting into pieces and serving warm.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free phyllo pastry or a veggie crust.