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Malaysian-style Beef Murtabak

Irresistibly Crunchy Malaysian-style Beef Murtabak Recipe

Discover the delightful crunch of Malaysian-style Beef Murtabak, a savory comfort food with spiced beef filling.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Malaysian
Servings 6 murtabaks
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Frying Pan
  • Oiled Tray

Ingredients
  

Dough

  • 3 cups Cake Flour Can substitute with all-purpose flour.
  • 2 tablespoons Caster Sugar Granulated sugar may alter the texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for taste; do not omit.
  • 1 cup Warm Water Ensure warm, not hot.
  • 1 tablespoon Margarine/Ghee Can be replaced with butter.
  • 1 large Egg No substitution recommended.

Filling

  • 1 pound Beef Mince Can substitute with lamb or chicken mince.
  • 1 medium Brown Onion Can mix with yellow or white onions.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Can substitute with garlic powder.
  • 1 inch Fresh Ginger Can be replaced with ginger paste.
  • 1 tablespoon Curry Powder Adjust based on desired spice level.
  • 1 cup Coriander Leaves Substitute with parsley if unavailable.
  • 1 large Egg (Filling) No substitution advised.

Frying

  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil Any neutral oil can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Peanut Oil Can substitute with any cooking oil.

Ajat Dip

  • 1 tablespoon White Sugar Can use brown sugar.
  • 1 tablespoon White Vinegar Rice vinegar can be an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Table salt can be used.

Serving

  • 1 medium Cucumber Seedless varieties preferred.
  • 2 medium Asian Red Shallot Regular onions can substitute.
  • 1 medium Red Chili Adjust quantity for desired spiciness.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough

  • Dissolve sugar and salt in warm water. In a large bowl, combine cake flour and margarine, forming a well in the center. Gradually add the egg and warm water, kneading for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into 6 balls, coat them with margarine, and refrigerate overnight.

Make the Ajat

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar, and salt. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. Mix in finely chopped cucumber, shallot, and red chili, allowing the mix to marinate while you prepare the filling.

Cook the Beef Filling

  • Sauté diced onion in peanut oil over medium heat until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic, fresh ginger, and curry powder until fragrant. Add the beef mince, cooking until browned, and incorporate a splash of water, simmering for about 20 minutes until moisture evaporates. Let the filling cool before mixing in coriander leaves and beaten eggs.

Assemble the Murtabaks

  • Roll each dough ball thinly into circles. Place a generous scoop of the beef filling in the center, and fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a neat envelope. Place the assembled murtabaks on an oiled tray.

Fry the Murtabaks

  • Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the murtabaks in batches for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels before serving warm with the ajats.

Notes

Serve with coconut rice or a fresh cucumber salad for a delightful contrast.
Keyword Beef Murtabak, comfort food, Crispy, Malaysian-style, Murtabak, Savory