11 Apr 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp water
1 egg
1 onion
1/3 cup pine nuts
1 cup spinach
2 tbsp lemon juice
Sambusaks, also known as samosas, are delicious pastry pockets stuffed with various flavorful fillings. Originating from the Middle East, these pastries make for a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. This recipe features a delightful combination of spinach, onion, and pine nuts, making each bite a burst of savory goodness. Follow the steps below to create your very own sambusaks.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the olive oil and water.
- Crack the egg into the well and gradually mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is resting, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion.
- Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the pine nuts to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are lightly toasted.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
- Season the filling with salt to taste and allow it to cool.
3. Assemble the Sambusaks:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
- Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough approximately 3 inches in diameter.
- Place a heaping teaspoon of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Bake:
- Arrange the sambusaks on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
- Allow the sambusaks to cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy them warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Tips:
- For a crispier crust, consider brushing the pastries with a beaten egg before baking.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
- Feel free to add spices like cumin, coriander, or cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra flavor punch.
- Make sure the dough is well-kneaded and rested for an hour before rolling out to ensure it is pliable and easy to work with.
- If you're short on time, you can use store-bought pastry dough as a quick alternative.
With the golden crust encasing a savory filling, these sambusaks are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a personal treat, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Remember to take creative liberty with the fillings and seasonings to make the sambusaks truly your own. Happy cooking!