Sambousak

sambousak

Egyptian cuisine boasts of a rich cultural heritage influenced by the country’s history, climate, and agriculture. The Egyptian Sambousak, a popular pastry dish, reflects a blend of Middle Eastern and North African culinary traditions. This delicious treat is an all-time favorite appetizer in Egypt and has become a popular snack in various parts of the world.

Sambousak is a savory pastry typically made of a dough filled with potatoes, cheese, meat, veggies or a combination of them all. The fillings vary based on regional preferences, and the dish can be fried, baked or grilled. The word ‘Sambousak’ is derived from the Arabic word for triangular shape, as the pastry is usually folded into a triangular shape.

Egyptian Sambousak is believed to have originated from the Levant area and spread through trade and shared traditions. Egyptian variations of this filling pastry have evolved to become a unique treat. Sambousak dishes are served as an appetizer or snack, usually accompanied by a dip or sauce.

The base of the pastry is a dough made of flour, butter, yogurt, water, and salt. This dough is mixed until it becomes firm and pliable, and then it is allowed to rest for 30 minutes to an hour. The dough is then divided into small portions and flattened out into discs, which are filled with the desired stuffing.

In Egypt, the preferred stuffing is a mixture of feta cheese, parsley, and onion. The cheese is mixed with the herbs and onions, and then it is seasoned with salt and pepper. The mixture is then scooped into the flattened dough, and the edges are pinched together into a triangle. The pastry is then placed in the oven until it is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Another popular variation in Egypt is baked Sambousak with spiced minced meat filling. The ground beef is seasoned with cumin, cinnamon, allspice, and black pepper, and then sauteed until well cooked. The filling is then mixed with pine nuts, parsley and minced onions.

Whether it is cheese, potatoes or meat used in the filling, the fusion of flavors in the Egyptian Sambousak makes it irresistible to many. The pastry is usually mild but can be spiced up with some chili, and it pairs perfectly with a sauce or dip.

The Egyptian Sambousak, like many other pastries, can also be made vegan. While the traditional cheese filling is replaced with mashed potato and parsley, the pastry dough remains the same.

Egyptian Sambousak is popular in the Middle East and is gaining popularity in western countries, with many restaurants adding them to their menus. The easily portable snack is perfect for a quick bite on the go, as it’s filling, delicious and can be served at any time of the day.

In conclusion, Egyptian Sambousak is one of the most beloved Egyptian pastries that has become a staple in many homes around the world. The pastry’s delicious flavors, ease of preparation, and portability make it an excellent choice for a snack or appetizer. Whether you are a meat lover or a vegan, everyone can enjoy the Sambousak pastry as it offers a range of fillings to choose from.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sesame seeds
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, vegetable oil, salt and instant yeast. Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a dough forms.

  2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

  3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion, parsley, mint, vegetable oil, salt and pepper until the onion is translucent. Remove from the heat and add crumbled feta cheese. Mix well.

  4. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

  5. Cut the dough into small pieces and shape into small balls. Roll each ball out into a thin circle.

  6. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over and pinch the edges to seal.

  7. Coat each sambousak with sesame seeds.

  8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F. Fry the sambousak in batches until golden brown on both sides.

  9. Place the sambousak on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, until cooked through.

  10. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or mint leaves. Enjoy!