Brazilian Meat esfiha is one of most popular savory pastries, bringing together soft dough and flavorful fillings in a perfect handheld package. Though inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, the Brazilian version has its own personality and it’s deeply loved across the country.

Whether served as a snack, party food, or quick dinner, meat esfihas are versatile, freezer-friendly, and absolutely delicious. In this article, you’ll learn how to make the perfect dough and the classic beef filling, plus tasty variations like cheese, sausage, and ham & cheese rolls, all using the same base recipe.

The Origin of Meat Esfiha: From the Middle East to Brazil

Although meat esfiha is widely known as a beloved Brazilian snack, its origins actually trace back to the Middle East—especially countries like Syria and Lebanon.

The original version, known as sfiha or lahm bi ajin (which means “meat with dough”), has been part of Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It was traditionally made using flatbread topped with seasoned meat, onions, and spices, then baked in wood-fired ovens.

So how did esfiha become so popular in Brazil?

The answer lies in immigration. Between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many Syrian and Lebanese immigrants came to Brazil, bringing their culinary traditions with them. Over time, these recipes adapted to local ingredients and tastes—and that’s how Brazilian esfiha was born.

Today, Brazil is actually one of the countries where esfiha is most popular, with unique variations that you won’t typically find in the Middle East.

Brazilian Esfiha vs Traditional Sfiha

One interesting difference is that what we call “esfiha” in Brazil is often quite different from the original Middle Eastern version.

• In the Middle East, sfiha is usually open-faced, with a thin layer of meat on top.
• In Brazil, both open and closed esfihas are common—and the closed version became especially popular.
• Brazilian recipes also tend to use ground beef instead of lamb, and sometimes include cheese, chicken, or even sweet fillings.

This evolution is a beautiful example of how food travels and transforms across cultures.

Since this recipe reflects the Brazilian adaptation of a traditional Middle Eastern dish, it’s more accurate to call it Brazilian meat esfiha rather than an “authentic” Middle Eastern version.

In fact, what many Brazilians consider authentic is actually a fusion of cultures—combining Middle Eastern roots with Brazilian flavors and cooking styles.

This dough is soft, easy to work with, and incredibly versatile. You’ll use it not only for esfihas, but also for other Brazilian snacks like sausage rolls and joelhos (ham & cheese rolls).

Ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp (10g) instant dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup (250ml) warm milk
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the egg, oil, and salt. Mix to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until it forms a dough.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Meanwhile, let’s prepare the star of the show: the meat filling.

Traditional Meat Filling

The classic Brazilian meat esfiha filling is simple and juicy, made with raw ground beef that cooks inside the pastry as it bakes.

Ingredients:

• 14 oz (400g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small tomato, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Chopped parsley or mint (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Mix well and taste the seasoning.
3. Let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to develop flavor and firm up.

Tip: You can sauté the meat for a few minutes if you prefer a cooked filling, but the traditional Brazilian method uses it raw.

Assembling the Brazilian Meat Esfiha

1. After the dough has risen, divide it into small balls (golf ball size).
2. Roll each ball into a circle (about 4 inches wide).
3. Add 1 tablespoon of meat filling to the center.
4. Fold the edges into a triangle or square shape, pinching the seams tightly to seal.
5. Arrange on a greased baking sheet and let rise for 10–15 minutes.
6. Brush with the egg yolk and milk mixture.
7. Bake at 390°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cheese Esfiha (Vegetarian Option)

Not a fan of meat? No problem! The dough also makes amazing cheese esfihas.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
• Oregano to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Fill and shape the esfihas the same way as with the meat.
3. Seal tightly—cheese tends to melt and leak.

In addition, you can add fresh herbs or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.

Calabresa (Sausage) Filling

Brazilian calabresa sausage is smoky, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with onion and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups finely chopped calabresa sausage
• 1 small onion, chopped
• A bit of shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the sausage and onion together for a few minutes.
2. Let the mixture cool completely before using it as a filling.

For example, some people like to blend the sausage in a food processor to make the texture smoother.

Ham and Cheese Roll (same dough)

This Brazilian snack, also called joelho in Rio, is made with slices of ham and cheese wrapped in the same dough.

Photo by Teste Receitas

How to make it:

1. Roll the dough into a rectangle.
2. Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center.
3. Roll like a burrito, fold the edges, and seal.
4. Brush with egg wash and bake until golden.

Meanwhile, the scent of warm ham and cheese will fill your kitchen—it’s comfort food at its finest.

Sausage Rolls (same dough)

These mini hot dog rolls are kid-friendly, quick to assemble, and fun to eat.

Photo by Band Receitas

Steps:

1. Roll small rectangles of dough.
2. Place a mini sausage or half a hot dog on one end.
3. Roll up and seal the edge.
4. Let them rise for 10 minutes, brush with egg wash, and bake.

You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or cheese on top before baking for extra flavor.

Tips for Freezing and Storing the Brazilian Meat Esfiha

The great thing about meat esfihas is how well they freeze.

Freezing:

• Freeze unbaked esfihas on a tray. Once firm, store in a bag or container.
• You can also freeze baked esfihas and reheat when needed.

To reheat:

• Oven: 10 minutes at 350°F (180°C)
• Microwave: 1–2 minutes (less crispy)

In fact, making a big batch and freezing them is a smart way to save time during the week.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your meat esfihas warm with a squeeze of lemon, hot sauce, or plain yogurt on the side. They go perfectly with:

• Salads
• Smoothies or juices
• Soup (for a light dinner)

In addition, you can turn them into party bites by making mini esfihas—just reduce the size and baking time.

Final Thoughts

Making meat esfiha at home is not only easy—it’s incredibly rewarding. With one dough recipe, you can create several snacks: beef esfihas, cheese esfihas, calabresa pastries, sausage rolls, and ham & cheese joelhos.

Meanwhile, your kitchen will smell amazing, and your freezer will be full of homemade comfort food ready to enjoy anytime.

In Brazil, esfihas are also a must-have at birthday parties and family gatherings because they’re simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing.

If you’re planning a party and want everything to look beautiful and organized, don’t miss my collection of printable party favors and decorations. They’re easy to assemble and perfect for creating a memorable celebration.

👉 Browse my printable party favors here.

So, next time you’re craving something savory and satisfying, skip the store-bought snacks and try making Brazilian meat esfihas from scratch. Your family—and your taste buds—will thank you.

Discover more delicious Brazilian recipes here.