Sambousik Lahme

Sambousik Lahme Recipe from Lebanon: A Savory Pastry Filled with Ground Meat, Pine Nuts, and Allspice

Region / culture: Lebanon | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Sambousik Lahme is a popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of crispy fried dough filled with a savory meat mixture. This delicious appetizer is perfect for serving at parties or as a snack.

History

Sambousik Lahme has its origins in the Middle East, where it is a traditional dish enjoyed by many. The combination of crispy dough and flavorful meat filling has made it a favorite among food lovers around the world.

Ingredients

5 cups all-purpose plain flour
1.5 cups lukewarm water
2 tbsp salt
2 tbsp sugar
vegetable oil for deep frying
1 cup oil

Meat Filling

10 oz (283 g) ground meat
1 tbsp shortening or butter
0.25 cup fried pine nuts
a dash of ground allspice
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 cup chopped onion (optional)

How to prepare

Prepare the Basic Dough.
Cover and set aside for 1 hour.

Meat Filling

Fry the meat in shortening, then add salt, spices, and pine nuts.
Stir over medium heat for 1 minute.
Set aside.
Divide the dough into walnut-sized balls.
Roll out the balls to form circles with a diameter of 8 cm.
Fill the circles with the meat filling.
To do this, place the filling on one side of the circle, then fold over one end to create semi-circles. Press the edges with your fingers.
Fry the filled circles in 1 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat until both sides are browned.
Serve hot.

Variations

You can make vegetarian Sambousik by using a filling of cooked vegetables or cheese instead of meat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fry the filled circles in hot oil to achieve a crispy texture.

- You can customize the meat filling by adding your favorite spices and ingredients.

- Serve the Sambousik Lahme hot for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Sambousik Lahme can be served as an appetizer or snack with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the main cooking technique used to prepare Sambousik Lahme.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground chicken or lamb instead of ground meat for the filling.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and meat filling ahead of time and assemble the Sambousik Lahme just before frying.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sambousik Lahme on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Sambousik Lahme pairs well with a fresh salad or pickled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Sambousik Lahme in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sambousik Lahme contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sambousik Lahme contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sambousik Lahme contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sambousik Lahme contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Sambousik Lahme is a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

Sambousik Lahme contains wheat and nuts.

Summary

Sambousik Lahme is a delicious and satisfying dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Sambousik Lahme is a delicious Middle Eastern dish that is perfect for serving at parties or as a snack. With a crispy dough and flavorful meat filling, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a friend's house for a family gathering. As soon as I walked through the door, I was hit with the most delightful aroma. My friend's mother was in the kitchen, rolling out dough and filling it with a delicious looking mixture of spiced meat and onions. I couldn't tear my eyes away from the process as she expertly shaped the dough into small, crescent-shaped pastries before frying them to a perfect golden brown.

I had never heard of Sambousik Lahme before, but I knew I had to learn how to make it. I begged my friend's mother to teach me her recipe, and she graciously agreed. As she walked me through the steps, explaining each ingredient and technique in detail, I realized that this dish was more than just a recipe - it was a piece of her family's history, passed down through generations.

The key to the perfect Sambousik Lahme, she told me, was in the balance of spices and the thickness of the dough. She showed me how to mix ground lamb with onions, pine nuts, and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cumin. As I watched her work, I could see the love and care she put into each step, from shaping the dough into perfect circles to sealing the edges with a fork.

After hours of kneading, rolling, and frying, we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The Sambousik Lahme was everything I had hoped for and more - crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. As I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Sambousik Lahme countless times, each batch better than the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was gifted to me so many years ago. Every time I make these savory pastries, I am transported back to that summer day in my friend's kitchen, learning a recipe that would become a beloved part of my culinary repertoire.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the aromas of spices and frying dough, I can't help but smile. This recipe has brought so much joy and connection into my life, and for that, I am forever grateful. So, if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and comforting dish, look no further than Sambousik Lahme. I promise you won't be disappointed.