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Sambousek

Flaky, golden pastries filled with savory goodness, Sambousek are a Middle Eastern delight that bring warmth and flavour to every bite. Whether stuffed with spiced meats, cheeses, or vibrant vegetables, these delicious pockets are the perfect appetizer or snack.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 20-24 pastries 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Delicate and Flaky Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¾ cup cold water

For the Savory and Aromatic Meat Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground lamb
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Optional Enhancements:

  • Pine nuts or almonds, toasted and chopped
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add vegetable oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add cold water and mix until a dough forms. Knead gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth, then wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
  3. For the filling, heat oil in a skillet. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2-3 more minutes, then remove from heat and cool completely.
  6. Roll out the chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 3-4 inch circles.
  7. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold in half and seal the edges by pressing firmly or crimping with a fork.
  8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange Sambousek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
  10. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

For a crispier texture, brush Sambousek with an egg wash before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

  • Author: Camilia
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Sambousek, Middle Eastern Pastry, Meat-Filled Pastry, Lebanese Appetizer