Baked Sambousek bi Lahme
Sambousek are delicious Lebanese pastries filled with spiced meat, perfect as a snack or appetizer for family gatherings.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp of salt. Add 1/4 cup of softened butter and blend until crumbly.
- 2
Gradually mix in 1/4 cup of water until a dough forms. Knead gently and let rest for 30 minutes.
- 3
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté 1 small finely chopped onion until translucent. Add 1/2 lb of ground beef, cooking until browned.
- 4
Stir in 1 tsp of ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp of ground allspice, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- 5
Remove from heat and mix in 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts. Let cool.
- 6
Roll the dough out onto a floured surface and cut into circles using a cup or biscuit cutter.
- 7
Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each circle, fold over, and pinch the edges to seal.
- 8
Brush the tops with 1 beaten egg to give a golden color when baked.
- 9
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sambousek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Cook notes
Tips
Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
Chill the dough for 15 minutes before rolling for easier handling.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing sambousek can preserve them for up to a month; just thaw before baking.
Substitutions
- Use ground chicken or turkey instead of ground beef.
- For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or lentils in place of meat.
What to Serve With
- Serve with a side of yogurt for dipping.
- Accompany with a fresh Arabic salad for a light meal.
- Pair with a mint tea for a refreshing drink.
Common Mistakes
- Not sealing the sambousek properly can cause filling to leak during baking.
- Rolling the dough too thin may result in a tough texture.
Recipe FAQ
Can I make sambousek ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sambousek and freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
How can I store leftover sambousek?
Store leftover sambousek in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Baking sheet
Useful for roasting, baking, broiling, and sheet-pan prep.
Skillet
Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
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