Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Crispy and delicious, the Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) is a delightful dish that’s perfect for appetizers or main courses. This savory pie features a rich filling of spiced ground beef and leeks, all wrapped in layers of flaky phyllo pastry. Ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or casual weeknight meals, this recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine while being incredibly satisfying. The standout qualities of this pie include its crispy texture, aromatic spices, and versatility in serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Flavor-Packed Filling: The combination of spices with ground beef offers a rich and aromatic taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer at parties or as a hearty main course; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown phyllo crust not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on any table setting.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish in advance, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making the Greek Phyllo Meat Pie, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine your ingredients without spills or mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for finely chopping leeks and onions, which enhances the flavor distribution in your filling.
• Pastry brush: Using a pastry brush helps evenly coat the phyllo layers with olive oil for that extra crispiness.

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Ingredients

Crispy phyllo meat pie with spiced ground beef and leek filling and extra crispy pastry!

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 500 grams (17.6 ounce) ground beef (or half ground beef and half ground lamb)
• 200 grams (7 ounce) leeks (finely chopped)
• 130 grams (4.6 ounce) onion (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• ⅓ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (minced)

For the Phyllo Dough Layers

• 450 grams (1 package) phyllo pastry
• 145 grams (⅔ cup) milk
• 70 grams (3 tablespoons) Greek yogurt
• 80 ml water
• 120 grams (12 tablespoons) olive oil (or half olive oil and half vegetable oil or melted butter)
• 2 medium-sized eggs

How to Make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Follow these steps to create your very own Greek Phyllo Meat Pie filled with flavorful goodness.

Step 1: Thaw the Phyllo Pastry

• Thaw phyllo pastry in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours before using. This prevents tearing when layering.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Sauté chopped onions until translucent, then add leeks. Cook until softened.
• Add ground beef to the mixture along with spices—ground allspice, nutmeg, paprika, cinnamon, coriander, and parsley. Cook until beef is browned through.
• Remove from heat; let cool slightly before adding milk, Greek yogurt, water, and eggs. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Take one sheet of phyllo pastry; brush it lightly with olive oil. Layer additional sheets on top, brushing each one.
• Spread half of the filling onto the layered phyllo in your baking dish.
• Repeat layering more phyllo sheets on top of the filling before adding the remaining filling. Finish by covering with more phyllo sheets brushed with oil.
• Tuck edges neatly into the baking dish.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
• Allow cooling slightly before cutting into pieces to serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Phyllo Meat Pie! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie, or Kimadopita, is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, serving this pie can be tailored to suit any occasion.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the meat pie.

Dressed in Tzatziki

• Providing tzatziki on the side adds a refreshing and creamy element that complements the spiced filling beautifully.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness and add color to your plate, making for a well-rounded meal.

Served with Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over each slice brightens the flavors and enhances the overall taste experience.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include small slices of Kimadopita on a mezze platter alongside hummus, olives, and stuffed grape leaves for a delightful appetizer spread.

How to Perfect Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Perfecting your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Phyllo: Fresh phyllo pastry will yield the crispiest layers. If using frozen, ensure it is completely thawed before use.

• Layer Generously: Apply olive oil between layers of phyllo for maximum crispiness. The oil helps achieve that flaky texture everyone loves.

• Season Well: Don’t skimp on the spices! The flavor of the filling is crucial; ensure you mix in seasonings evenly.

• Mind the Filling Moisture: Avoid excess moisture in your filling to prevent soggy pastry. Drain any liquid from cooked leeks before mixing them into the meat.

• Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the top layer of phyllo with an egg wash before baking. It creates a beautiful golden color and adds richness.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

When serving Greek Phyllo Meat Pie, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Village Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil and oregano.

2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs like rosemary or thyme provide a hearty side option.

3. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious and flavorful accompaniment that balances the richness of the pie.

4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs, cherry tomatoes, and lemon juice adds freshness and texture to your meal.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables make an attractive addition to your table while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

6. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini drizzled with balsamic glaze brings out its natural sweetness and adds lovely grill marks for visual appeal.

7. Fried Eggplant Slices: Crispy fried eggplant slices add another layer of flavor while being simple yet sophisticated when served alongside Kimadopita.

8. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette provides both nutrition and flavor contrast to the meat pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Bold Preparation: Not allowing the phyllo pastry to thaw properly can lead to tearing. Always ensure it is fully thawed in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight.

• Bold Filling Consistency: Using a filling that is too watery may result in soggy pastry. Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the beef and vegetables before assembling.

• Bold Layering Technique: Skipping layers of oil or melted butter between phyllo sheets will yield a less crispy texture. Remember to brush each sheet generously with oil or butter as you layer them.

• Bold Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and crispiness. Preheat your oven adequately and maintain a consistent temperature throughout cooking.

• Bold Serving Size: Cutting the pie into pieces while it’s too hot may cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing for neater portions.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight freezer bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Place a slice of pie in the skillet, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita).

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for beef in this recipe. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

What other fillings can I use in Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)?

Feel free to experiment with other vegetables or proteins like turkey or lamb. Spinach and cheese also make great additions!

How do I prevent my phyllo dough from drying out?

Keep unused phyllo sheets covered with a damp cloth while you work. This prevents them from drying out and becoming brittle.

How long does it take to prepare Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)?

The total preparation time is about 30 minutes, followed by 50 minutes of cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) offers a delightful blend of flavors wrapped in crispy pastry that’s hard to resist. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients; try adding different herbs or vegetables for a unique twist!