Name: Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek: 7 Savory Secrets
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting); 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast; ½ cup warm water; ¼ cup warm milk; ¼ cup vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon plain yogurt; 1½ cups Akkawi cheese (or substitute with mozzarella if unavailable); ½ cup feta cheese; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint or parsley; ½ teaspoon nigella seeds (optional, but traditional); ½ teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or sweet paprika); Freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Neutral oil like canola or sunflower (enough for deep frying)

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Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek is a delightful pastry that has captivated taste buds with its flaky, crispy exterior and rich, cheesy filling. This dish is a staple in Lebanese cuisine, often enjoyed as a savory appetizer or snack. With the perfect combination of Akkawi and feta cheese, fresh herbs, and spices, these little turnovers are not just delicious but also a great way to share the warmth of Lebanese hospitality. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious treats!

Why You’ll Love This Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek

This cheese-stuffed Lebanese sambousek recipe offers a variety of reasons to fall in love with it. First, it’s incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions—be it a family gathering or a casual snack. Second, the combination of Akkawi cheese and feta creates a mouth-watering filling that delights every palate. Third, it’s a vegetarian-friendly option, ensuring everyone can enjoy it. Fourth, preparing these Lebanese sambousek with cheese filling is a fun activity that can involve the whole family. Fifth, they are ideal for meal prepping, as they can be made in advance and stored for later. Lastly, they can be served hot or at room temperature, making them perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients for Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek

Gather these items:

3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
½ cup warm water
¼ cup warm milk
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon plain yogurt
1½ cups Akkawi cheese (or substitute with mozzarella if unavailable)
½ cup feta cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint or parsley
½ teaspoon nigella seeds (optional, but traditional)
½ teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or sweet paprika)
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Neutral oil like canola or sunflower (enough for deep frying)

How to Make Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. In a separate small bowl, mix warm water, warm milk, oil, and yogurt. Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, kneading for 8–10 minutes until a soft, elastic dough forms.
Step 2: Cover with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30–40 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 3: While the dough is rising, prepare your cheese filling. If using Akkawi cheese, soak it in water for 30 minutes beforehand to reduce saltiness, then drain and crumble. Mix Akkawi and feta cheeses together in a bowl with chopped mint or parsley, nigella seeds, Aleppo pepper, and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 4: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two portions to make it easier to handle. Roll out one portion to about 1/8 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out circles using your cutter or glass.
Step 5: Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle. Fold over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together. Seal with the tines of a fork to ensure they don’t open while frying.
Step 6: Heat your frying oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the sambousek into the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
Step 7: These are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature—making them ideal for mezze spreads, packed lunches, or picnic tables.

Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek: 7 Savory Secrets - Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust spices according to your taste.
Store leftover sambousek in an airtight container.
For a crispy texture, ensure the oil is hot before frying.
Experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek

These delightful pastries can be served in various ways. Pair them with a refreshing yogurt dip or a spicy sauce for a burst of flavor. They also work wonderfully on a mezze platter alongside other Lebanese dishes, such as tabbouleh or baba ghanoush. You can even serve them as a main dish with a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek

These pastries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. This makes them perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them any day of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek

What’s the secret to perfect Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek?

The key to perfect cheese-filled pastry Lebanese sambousek lies in the dough. It should be soft and elastic, which allows it to hold the filling while frying. Make sure your oil is hot enough, as this ensures a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.

Can I make Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sambousek in advance and freeze them. Just fry them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have delicious snacks ready whenever you need them.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek?

Common mistakes include overfilling the sambousek or not sealing the edges properly, which can cause them to burst during frying. Ensure you use just the right amount of filling and seal them tightly for the best results.

Creative Variations of Cheese Filled Lebanese Sambousek You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different fillings! You can use a mix of cheeses for varied flavors or add spinach for a vegetarian option. Try adding herbs like dill or oregano for an aromatic twist. Another delicious variation is to include cooked mushrooms or caramelized onions for an extra depth of flavor.