Lebanese meat rolls are typically made with a mixture of ground beef or lamb, onions, parsley, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. The filling is then wrapped in a thin layer of dough and fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy, savory treat that is bursting with flavor.
While the origins of Lebanese meat rolls are unclear, they are believed to have been influenced by the cuisine of neighboring countries such as Turkey and Syria. Today, they are a beloved part of Lebanese cuisine and can be found in restaurants and homes throughout the country. Whether you are a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or just looking to try something new, Lebanese meat rolls are worth a try.
I visited an old friend of mine in Seattle and he surprised me with some delicious Lebanese meat rolls. They were crispy and savory and we enjoyed them with a bottle of beer. Before I left, I asked my friend for the recipe, who kindly shared it with me. Here are the ingredients that the recipe contained: spring roll pastry sheets, ground beef, onion, pine nuts, vegetable oil, seven spices, salt, black pepper, flour, and water.
These Lebanese meat rolls were a hit at my next dinner party and I have since shared the recipe with many of my friends. They are a perfect appetizer or snack and are sure to impress your guests.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing Lebanese meat rolls, several dishes come to mind. Here are some of my favorite options:
- Lebanese Rice Pilaf: This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is the perfect accompaniment to meat rolls. The combination of spices in the rice, such as cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, pairs well with the savory flavors of the meat.
- Mediterranean Salad: A fresh and crunchy salad is always a good choice to balance out the richness of meat rolls. Try a Mediterranean-style salad with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice will tie everything together.
- Grilled Eggplant: While roasted vegetables are off the table, grilled eggplant is a great alternative. The smoky flavor of the eggplant complements the meat rolls nicely. You can serve it as a side dish or even chop it up and mix it into the meat filling.
- Labneh: This tangy and creamy yogurt dip is a staple in Lebanese cuisine. It’s a great choice to serve alongside meat rolls, as the acidity helps cut through the meat’s richness. You can sprinkle some za’atar or sumac on top for extra flavor.
- Roasted Potatoes: If you’re looking for a heartier side dish, roasted potatoes are a great option. Cut them into wedges and season them with garlic, paprika, and rosemary for a delicious and comforting side dish.
Overall, there are plenty of options when it comes to pairing Lebanese meat rolls. Whether you prefer something light and fresh or something more substantial, there’s a dish out there that will complement the flavors of the meat perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 10 sheets of spring roll pastry
- 1/2 pound of ground beef
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of seven spices
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 tablespoon of water
How to Make Lebanese Meat Rolls?
- Put 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan on medium heat. Toss in the pine nuts and cook them until they’re golden. Take out the nuts and oil, keep them separate, and set them aside.
- Next, add the finely chopped onion to the ground beef in the same skillet. Cook the beef on medium heat until it’s not pink anymore. Then, add the oil saved from pine nuts and chopped onion. Season with salt, black pepper, and 7 spices. Cook for 5 more minutes until the onions are soft.
- For the flour paste, mix water and flour in a bowl until it’s smooth. Place a room-temperature spring roll wrapper flat on a big plate or surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of beef filling onto the center near the bottom edge of the wrapper. Use your finger to apply a bit of the flour paste to all four corners of the pastry.
- Fold the bottom corner, then tuck in the sides and keep rolling until you reach the top, then seal it. Do this until all the filling is used, usually making about 10 rolls.
- Last step, heat oil to 350 degrees in a deep pot or skillet. Fry the rolls in batches until they’re golden. Put them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain, then serve them warm.
Regional Variations
By Lebanese Regions
Lebanese meat rolls are a popular appetizer in Lebanon. However, the recipe and preparation methods can vary depending on the region. In the northern region of Lebanon, locals typically make them with a mixture of ground beef and lamb, while in the southern region, they make them with ground chicken. In the coastal region, seafood is sometimes added to the filling, giving it a unique flavor.
In the eastern Bekaa Valley, locals make them with a mixture of ground beef and onions, with a seasoning of cinnamon and allspice. The dough is also slightly different, made with semolina flour instead of regular flour.
International Twists
Lebanese cuisine has gained popularity around the world, and with that popularity comes international twists on the classic rolls. In the United States, some restaurants serve them with a Mexican twist, filling them with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and salsa. In Europe, restaurants sometimes serve them as a vegetarian option, filled with spinach and feta cheese.
Overall, the regional variations and international twists on Lebanese meat rolls demonstrate the versatility of this classic Lebanese dish.
Nutritional Information
As a health-conscious person, I understand the importance of knowing the nutritional information of the food I consume. Lebanese meat rolls are a delicious and popular dish that you can enjoy as a snack or a meal. Here is the nutritional information for this dish:
- Calories: One meat roll contains approximately 150-200 calories depending on the size.
- Fat: A meat roll contains about 8-10 grams of fat, mostly from the meat filling.
- Protein: Each meat roll contains around 12-15 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Carbohydrates: Lebanese meat rolls are low in carbohydrates, with only 10-15 grams per roll.
- Fiber: Unfortunately, meat rolls are not a good source of fiber, with less than 1 gram per roll.
It is important to note that the nutritional information may vary depending on the ingredients used to make the meat rolls. For example, if the meat filling contains more fat, the overall calorie and fat content will be higher. However, if the meat filling is made with lean meat, the calorie and fat content will be lower.
Overall, Lebanese meat rolls can be a healthy and satisfying option when consumed in moderation. It is always a good idea to pair them with a side of vegetables or a salad to increase the fiber and nutrient content of your meal.
Storing and Preservation
Here are some tips on how to store and preserve your Lebanese meat rolls.
Refrigeration
If you plan on consuming your Lebanese meat rolls within a few days, storing them in the refrigerator is the best option. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent air from getting in. This will help keep them fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
If you have leftovers or want to store your Lebanese meat rolls for a longer period, freezing is the way to go. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you want to eat them, all you need to do is thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven or microwave. However, keep in mind that freezing and thawing may affect the texture of the meat rolls, so they may not taste the same as when they were freshly made.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your Lebanese meat rolls stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Conclusion
In my opinion, Lebanese meat rolls are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of spiced ground beef, onions, and pine nuts wrapped in a crispy phyllo dough makes for a flavorful and filling dish.
One thing to keep in mind when making these rolls is to be careful not to overstuff them, as this can cause the dough to tear during baking. It’s also important to brush the rolls with a generous amount of butter or oil before baking to ensure they come out crispy and golden brown.
Overall, I highly recommend trying out this Lebanese dish for yourself. It’s a great way to add some variety to your meal rotation and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
By the way, hummus is great to have with these meat rolls.
Get a great recipe now (by clicking the image below):
