Egyptian Goulash, Ancient Grain Salata Baladi & Garlicky Yogurt with Cucumber and Dilli: A Feast from the Nile (includes complimentary surprise dessert)

This Thursday at Ragna’s Table, we travel to the heart of Egypt with a feast that’s both grounded in tradition and full of bold, unforgettable flavors.

At the center of the meal is Egyptian Goulash—a beloved dish made by layering delicate sheets of phyllo around a warmly spiced ground beef filling, scented with baharat, onion, and a whisper of allspice. Baked until perfectly crisp and golden, it offers a satisfying contrast between flaky pastry and savory, tender meat. This pie is a staple at gatherings across Egypt—deeply comforting, shareable, and celebratory.

The goulash is paired with a fresh reinterpretation of Salata Baladi, Egypt’s iconic chopped salad. This version honors both heritage and health by weaving in emmer wheat, one of the earliest domesticated grains, cultivated in ancient Egypt for thousands of years. Naturally high in protein and dietary fiber, emmer is rich in essential nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and iron, supporting everything from immune resilience to metabolic function. Its satisfying chew and earthy, nutty flavor lend a grounding quality that complements the brightness of the salad.

Cooked until tender but toothsome, the emmer is folded into a mix of organic cucumber, tomato, green pepper, red onion, and parsley—each vegetable offering hydration, antioxidants, and vibrant crunch. A lemon-garlic vinaigrette, lightly dusted with cumin, ties it all together with brightness and depth.

To complete the plate, a side of garlicky yogurt with cucumber and dill provides a cool, creamy finish. This classic accompaniment not only brightens the flavors but also supports digestion and delivers a probiotic boost.

Made with organic ingredients whenever possible, this meal offers a wholesome balance of protein, whole grains, fiber, and antioxidants. The emmer wheat supports sustained energy and gut health, while the vegetables bring hydration and vibrant phytonutrients. Rich in flavor and baked with care, the phyllo meat pie is portioned to provide lasting nourishment—bringing together quality protein, warming spices, and satisfying texture in a balanced, wholesome way.

This pairing celebrates contrast and harmony: the flaky, savory indulgence of goulash beside the earthy, sunlit freshness of grain and greens. It’s a meal designed not just to satisfy but to fortify—from gut health and energy levels to heart and immune support.