Sambousek with minced meat

Spicy minced meat sambusek with spinach and feta - A delicacy from the Middle East

If you are looking for a recipe that combines flavor, tradition, and a bit of culinary adventure, sambusek is the perfect choice. This dish, often compared to pizza, has its origins in Middle Eastern cuisine and is extremely popular in its various forms. Whether you choose to prepare it fried in oil for a crispy experience or bake it for a healthier option, sambusek will delight you with every bite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking/Frying time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10 sambuseks

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- a pinch of salt
- 250-300 ml warm milk
- 50 ml olive oil

For the filling:
- 400 g minced beef
- 1 medium onion
- a few tablespoons of tomato paste
- salt, pepper, sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili or harissa (for a spicy taste)
- chopped fresh parsley

Preparation

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. In another container, add the dry yeast and sugar to the warm milk. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an important step that will ensure a fluffy dough.

2. Kneading: When the yeast has risen, make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture. Start kneading, gradually adding the remaining warm milk and finally the olive oil. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 40 minutes.

3. Preparing the filling: In a pan, sauté the finely chopped onion in a few tablespoons of oil. Add the minced meat and stir continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the meat loses its color and all the liquid has evaporated. Add the tomato paste, spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and chili or harissa), and chopped parsley. Mix well and let the filling cool.

4. Shaping the sambuseks: Once the dough has risen, divide it into small balls weighing about 50 g each. Roll each ball into a thin, round sheet. On one half of the sheet, place a tablespoon of filling. Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges by pressing firmly with your fingers to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.

5. Cooking the sambuseks: Here you have two options: fry the sambuseks in hot oil until golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes on each side) or bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes until golden. If you choose the oven option, you can brush the sambuseks with a little olive oil for a more appetizing appearance.

6. Serving: Sambuseks are delicious served warm, alongside a fresh mixed salad or a yogurt sauce with cucumbers. They can also be paired with a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or buttermilk, to balance the intense flavors.

Practical tips

- Filling variations: You can experiment with other fillings, such as spinach and feta, cottage cheese, or roasted vegetables. Each variant will bring a new level of flavor to your sambusek.
- Perfect texture: Make sure the dough is well-kneaded to achieve a fluffy texture. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
- Frying oil: If you opt for frying, use sunflower or peanut oil, as these have a higher smoke point, ideal for frying.
- Freezing: Sambuseks can be frozen before cooking. Arrange them on a tray, trying to separate them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When you are ready to cook them, you can fry or bake them straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time.

Nutritional details

This spicy minced meat sambusek recipe is not only delicious but also satisfying. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the cooking method and filling chosen. The meat provides essential proteins, and the spices not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to boosting metabolism.

The history of sambusek is fascinating, being a dish that has traveled through time, adapting to different cultures and culinary traditions. It is a perfect example of how food can bring people together, whether for a celebration or a simple family meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough? Yes, you can replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but keep in mind that the texture of the dough will be slightly different.

2. Is sambusek suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using a filling of vegetables and vegan cheese, replacing the meat with mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

3. Can I make sambusek a day in advance? Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. When you are ready to cook them, follow the cooking steps mentioned.

4. What other dishes can sambuseks be paired with? Sambuseks go wonderfully with fresh salads, various sauces, or even a warm soup for a complete lunch.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to start cooking! Prepare delicious sambuseks and share them with family and friends for an unforgettable culinary experience. Bon appétit!