Ingredients

2 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour ( spooned into the cups and leveled )
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
9 tablespoons cold unsalted butter , cut into tablespoon-sized pieces
1/2 cup cool water
2 2 teaspoons cumin ( optional ) or 2 teaspoons caraway seeds ( optional )
1 large egg , beaten with a pinch of salt for egg wash
sesame seeds , for sprinkling
12 ounces cheese , shredded ( use sharp-flavored cheese for best results )
1 pinch salt
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 large egg
1 large egg white
1 large egg yolk , beaten with
1 teaspoon water , for egg wash
Sambousek is a popular Middle Eastern dish consisting of a small pastry filled with either sweet or savory ingredients. These cheese sambousek are a savory version and are made with a flaky dough crust filled with a mixture of shredded cheese, salt, and cayenne pepper. They are a popular snack in Arabic cafes and are often served at parties and gatherings. The dough is made with flour, salt, baking powder, sugar, and cold butter, ensuring that it will be crispy and flaky when baked. This recipe combines the flavors of the Middle East with the convenience of easy-to-make appetizers that are sure to impress at any occasion.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, sugar, and cumin or caraway seeds.
2.Add in the butter and work it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
3.Add in the water and knead the dough until it comes together into a soft and smooth ball.
4.In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, salt, and cayenne pepper.
5.In another bowl, whisk together the whole egg, egg white, and for the egg wash, the egg yolk and water.
6.Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
7.Use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut the dough into circles.
8.Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture on one half of each circle.
9.Fold the circle over to form a half-moon and press the edges together to seal.
10.Brush the tops of the sambousek with the egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds over the tops.
11.Bake the sambousek in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

PROS

These sambousek are easy to make and can be customized to suit different tastes by swapping out the cheese or adding herbs and spices.

They are perfect for snacking or as party appetizers.

CONS

These sambousek are high in calories and fat due to the butter and cheese used in the recipe.

They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

These sambousek are a good source of calcium and protein due to the use of cheese.
Additionally, cumin or caraway seeds have been linked to aiding in digestion and reducing inflammation.

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