Authentic Lebanese Sambousek Recipe: A Savory Middle-Eastern Delight

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 3/4 cup of water
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 pound of ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon of ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup of pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
  • Vegetable oil for deep-frying

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water to the mixture while kneading until a dough is formed. Add the vegetable oil and continue to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 1 hour.
  2. Meanwhile, heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Add the ground beef to the skillet and continue to cook until it is browned and cooked through. Season with allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, and cumin. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley. Set aside to cool.
  3. Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball out into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large deep pan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Fry the Sambousek in batches until they are golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Serve the Sambousek warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version.
  • Replace the ground beef with ground lamb or chicken for a different flavor.
  • Add minced garlic or chili flakes to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
  • Include diced vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots in the filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Try a vegetarian version by substituting the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils and spices.
  • Use filo pastry sheets instead of homemade dough for a lighter and crispier crust.
  • Experiment with different spices and herbs such as paprika, coriander, or mint to customize the flavor profile.
  • Add crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan to the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.
  • Make a sweet version by filling the Sambousek with a mixture of chopped nuts, sugar, and cinnamon.
  • Serve the Sambousek with a side of tzatziki, tahini sauce, or a spicy dipping sauce for an added burst of flavor.

Recipe overview

Sambousek, a popular Middle Eastern savory pastry, is a delight for the taste buds and a joy to make. Stuffed with a spiced meat mixture and deep-fried to golden-brown perfection, these little half-moon pastries are the perfect appetizer or snack. The dough, made from simple pantry ingredients, is soft and pliable, offering a satisfying contrast to the flavorful filling. This recipe walks you through the steps of making your own Sambousek at home. While it does require some time and patience, the resulting crispy pastries filled with fragrant, spiced meat will be reward enough for your efforts. Whether you're preparing for a family gathering or simply craving something savory, this Sambousek recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and get ready for a delicious homemade treat!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
  2. Can I use a different type of ground meat? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can use ground chicken, lamb, or even a vegetarian meat substitute.
  3. Can I bake the Sambousek instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the Sambousek in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) until they become golden brown and crispy. Brush them with a little oil before baking.
  4. Can I freeze the Sambousek? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked Sambousek. After stuffing and shaping them, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be fried or baked directly from frozen, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  5. What dipping sauce goes well with Sambousek? Sambousek pairs well with various dipping sauces, such as tzatziki, tahini sauce, or a spicy tomato sauce.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling pin - Used for rolling out the dough into thin circles.
  • Skillet - Used for sautéing the onions and cooking the ground beef.
  • Deep fryer or deep pan - Used for frying the Sambousek until they are golden brown.
  • Paper towels - Used for draining the fried Sambousek.

Origin stories

Sambousek, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, is often associated with the holy month of Ramadan, where it graces the Iftar tables as the sun sets and the fast is broken. But these savory pastries have a history as rich as their fillings. Originating from the Middle East, they traveled along the Silk Road, finding a home in every country they touched, adapting to the local tastes and ingredients. In India, they transformed into the well-known samosas, while in Spain they became the empanadas. Despite the different names and flavors, the spirit of Sambousek remains: a delicious, comforting bite that transcends borders and brings people together, just as it has done for centuries.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.