I love anything wrapped in a pastry; well, almost anything. Who doesn't love a flaky, fluffy, buttery, melt in your mouth pastry enveloping a delicious sweet or savory filling? I don't know anyone, do you?
A school lesson
Years ago when I was homeschooling my son, an experience I would like to bury deep in the confines of my memory, I taught a class on empanadas from around the world. It was a hit with the kids, and the couple of moms who were my helpers. It's really cool that virtually every culture in the world has their own version of a stuffed pastry.
Meat Pastries in every culture
Turkish meat pastry ( Talas Kebabi) are a close cousin of the typical Latin American/Spanish empanada. However, these little gems use ½ the seasonings without sacrificing any of the flavor. One of the herbs used in this savory puff pastry recipe is fresh mint; courtesy of my garden. Talas Kebabi reflect a French influence, hence the use of puff pastry. Traditionally the dish calls for lamb, but I have used beef instead. Sometimes it is difficult to find lamb during non-holiday times. I really wish lamb was more popular in the US.
The first time I made these spicy Turkish meat pastries my son had a friend over to visit. To my great horror my son invited his friend to stay for dinner. Normally, I don't mind, but whenever I make something for the first time I prefer to have only my family as the guinea pigs. That's just me! Luckily they turned out great. The friend even helped by brushing the egg wash onto the puff pastry and had seconds and thirds. Success!! These puff pastry appetizers are definitely a keeper I think.
Want to try more dishes from the Mediterranean? My Easy Chicken Shawarma is a great main.
Looking for more recipes?
Sign up for my free recipe newsletter to get new recipes in your inbox each week! You can also find me sharing more inspiration in Pinterest and Facebook

Spicy Turkish Meat Pastries
Here is a Turkish favorite recipe. Talas Kebabi is a spicy meat filled puff pastry and so easy to make. You'll love the exotic flavors in this!
Ingredients
- 1 lb puff pastry 1 package, frozen
- 1 lb beef cut into strips
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion small, sliced thin
- 2 garlic clove minced
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp paprika
- ⅛ tsp allspice
- ½ tsp mint fresh, chopped
- 1 egg beaten with 1 Tbsp water for egg wash
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, stir fry the beef until lightly brown.
- Add the onions and garlic and stir.
- Add the spices and mint and the tomato paste and water and blend together well.
- Reduce heat and cover.
- Cook for about 25 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350F
- To assemble, roll out each puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut into 4x4 squares.
- Place a small amount of filling in the center of a square. Top with another square and seal with the tines of a fork.
- Brush with egg wash and bake for about 25 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Serve warm.
Ann
Looks absolutely mouth-watering! 🙂
Analida
Thanks Ann!
Denise Wright
These look solo tasty! They remind me a little of something my aunt used to make and that I haven't had in a very long time. Can't wait to try them.
Analida
Thanks Denise! I hope you get to try them soon!
Kristen @ A Mind Full Mom
Yep, how can you go wrong when it is wrapped in puff pastry? LOVE!!
Analida
You're right Kristen!!! How can you go wrong? LOL 🙂
Carlee
That looks amazing! It looks like it would be complicated to make, but the instructions make it seem manageable. I will have to give it a try!
Analida
Carlee, yes, it is easy, especially if you don't have to make the puff pastry from scratch. 🙂
Abida
Meat in puff pastry? Always a winning combination!
Analida
🙂 Isn't it?
Barrett Hong
Where's the mint in the recipe?
Analida
You add 1/2 tsp to the meat mixture along with the spices. Thanks!
Michelle | A Dish of Daily Life
I love eating meat pastries, but I've never tried making them! These look so good, I'm very tempted! Thanks for the inspiration, Analida!
Analida
Thanks Michelle! The pre-made puff pastry makes them easy to prepare. I have never attempted to make puff pastry from scratch; it looks difficult.
Ashley @ Big Flavors from a Tiny Kitchen
Love the addition of fresh mint in here. Looks fantastic!
Analida
Thanks Ashley!