Sambousek Spinach Meat Cheese Fillings

Embark on a flavor-packed journey with these delectable Sambousek Spinach Meat Cheese Fillings, a Middle Eastern-inspired favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring a soft, golden pastry made from scratch, these crescent-shaped treats are filled with your choice of savory spinach sautéed with onions, spiced ground beef or lamb infused with cinnamon and allspice, or creamy feta cheese blended with fresh parsley. Each bite offers a burst of authentic, aromatic flavors that will transport your taste buds. These versatile turnovers are easy to make, baked to perfection with a glossy egg wash for a crispy finish, and can be served warm or at room temperature as an appetizer, snack, or party favorite. Whether you’re catering to vegetarian guests, meat lovers, or cheese enthusiasts, this recipe ensures there’s something for everyone!

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.75 cup olive oil
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 0.5 pound ground beef or lamb
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground allspice
• 0.5 teaspoon salt (for meat filling)
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
• 1 large egg for egg wash
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.

Step 2

Add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix and knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3

Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4

For the spinach filling, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until softened. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and let it cool before using.

Step 5

For the meat filling, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned. Stir in the cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 6

For the cheese filling, mix the crumbled feta cheese with the chopped parsley in a small bowl.

Step 7

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 24 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a circle about 3 inches in diameter.

Step 8

Place a teaspoon of your chosen filling (spinach, meat, or cheese) in the center of each circle.

Step 9

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative finish.

Step 10

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 11

Prepare the egg wash by whisking together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the sambousek with the egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 12

Place the sambousek on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

Step 13

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Step 14

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1562.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4224.7

Total Fat 274.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 80.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 15.9g
Cholesterol 567.4mg	0%
Sodium 6338.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 310.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.5g	0%
Total Sugars 14.8g
Protein 124.9g	0%

Vitamin D 41IU	0%
Calcium 1426.8mg	0%
Iron 31.2mg	0%
Potassium 2257.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 58.7%

Protein: 11.9%

Carbs: 29.5%