Middle Eastern Beef Sfeeha—

Beef Sfeeha—sometimes called Lahm bi Ajeen—is a beloved Middle Eastern dish enjoyed year-round but becomes especially popular during Ramadan. Soft homemade dough topped with aromatic spiced minced beef creates a hearty, satisfying dish that’s excellent for Iftar.

This version is simple to prepare, customizable, and ideal for both home cooks and professional kitchens.

🍽️ Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp sugar
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp oil
¾ cup warm water (as needed)

For the Meat Topping

300 g minced beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tomato, finely chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Optional: chopped parsley, chili flakes

Garnish

Tomato slices
Fresh parsley

🔥 How to Make Beef Sfeeha

1. Prepare the Dough

Mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
Add oil and warm water gradually until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

Heat olive oil in a pan.
Add onions and sauté until soft.
Add minced beef and cook until browned.
Mix in tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices.
Simmer until thick and aromatic.
Let cool slightly.

3. Shape the Sfeeha

Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F).
Divide dough into small balls.
Flatten each into a mini pizza shape.
Spread 2–3 tbsp of beef mixture on top.

4. Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.

5. Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh tomato slices and parsley, just like the close-up photo above.

Serve hot with yogurt, lemon wedges, or tahini sauce.

😋 Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Ramadan

✔ Easy to make in large batches
✔ Freezer‑friendly
✔ Protein-rich and satisfying
✔ Works for both Iftar and Suhoor
✔ Pairs well with soups and salads

Beef Sfeeha—A Middle Eastern Classic Perfect for Ramadan

Ramadan brings families together around the table each evening, making Iftar a special moment filled with comfort and tradition. One of the most beloved dishes during this holy month is Beef Sfeeha, a savory flatbread topped with richly spiced minced meat. It’s warm, filling, and deeply flavorful—making it an ideal choice after a long day of fasting.

Originating from the Levant, Sfeeha has been enjoyed for centuries across Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and the Middle East. Over time, it has become a Ramadan staple due to its simplicity, versatility, and ability to satisfy hunger quickly.

This recipe uses a soft, easy-to-work dough and a perfectly seasoned minced beef topping. The hint of cinnamon, paprika, and cumin creates an aromatic profile that fills the kitchen with irresistible Middle Eastern fragrance.

What makes this recipe especially suitable for Ramadan is its convenience—you can prepare the dough and meat mixture ahead of time, assemble right before Iftar, and bake fresh. Serve it with fresh parsley, tomato slices, or a drizzle of tahini for a complete and comforting meal.

Whether you’re hosting guests, feeding family, or preparing dishes for a restaurant buffet, Beef Sfeeha is a reliable, flavorful, and beautifully presentable choice for Ramadan nights.