Sambusak (Filled Beef Pastries) Recipe

Overview:

Sambusak, a delightful Middle Eastern pastry, is a savory treat that combines a crispy, golden crust with a flavorful beef filling. Perfect for any occasion, from casual picnics to elegant gatherings, these pastries are sure to impress your guests with their irresistible taste. With a total preparation time of just one hour, including 45 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up a batch of these delectable treats in no time. Each bite is bursting with savory goodness, making them an ideal choice for lunch or snacks. Let’s dive into the recipe and create some culinary magic!

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
8 ounces unsalted margarine
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 pounds ground beef
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup pine nuts

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
Using an electric mixer, cream the unsalted margarine until smooth.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed margarine, blending until well combined.
Pour in the water and continue mixing until a smooth dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface until it forms a cohesive ball.
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Filling:

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 20 minutes.
Once the meat is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Stir in the ground allspice, salt, cinnamon, and pine nuts until evenly combined. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Sambusak:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Spread the sesame seeds on a large plate.
Break off walnut-sized pieces of dough and shape each into a ball.
Lightly dip one side of each dough ball into the sesame seeds, then roll it seed-side down into a 3-inch round.
Place a teaspoon of the prepared meat filling in the center of each dough round.
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges tightly to seal.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.

4. Bake the Sambusak:

Arrange the assembled pastries on ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each one.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crisp.
Once baked, remove the sambusak from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy these delicious filled beef pastries warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for any occasion!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 49.9
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0.4g
Cholesterol: 4.2mg
Sodium: 121.2mg
Carbohydrates: 5.4g
Fiber: 0.4g
Sugar: 0.2g
Protein: 2.5g

Serving Suggestions:

These savory sambusak pastries are perfect for serving as a delicious appetizer at parties or as a satisfying snack any time of day. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own for a flavorful culinary experience. Additionally, you can freeze any leftover sambusak for later enjoyment. Simply reheat them in the oven for a quick and convenient snack option.

Conclusion:

With their golden, flaky crust and savory beef filling, these homemade sambusak pastries are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a tasty treat, these delectable pastries are always a hit. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of these filled beef pastries. Your taste buds will thank you! 🥟🍽️