SAMBUSAK BEL JIBN

Sambusak bel jibn (cheese pastries) is popular Middle Eastern pastry filled with cheese. The dough is thin and crisp, encasing the cheesy filling. These savory pastries are baked until golden brown, creating a deliciously crispy texture on the outside while remaining soft and cheesy on the inside. Sambusak bel jibn is commonly served during festive gatherings.

Sambusak bel jibn (cheese pastries)

INGREDIENTS:

Dough:

• 1 kg self-raising flour

• 1 egg

• 250g baking margarine (softened)

• Pinch of salt

• 1 tsp instant yeast

• 400 ml water (on room temperature)

Cheese filling:

• 500g grated halloumi cheese

• 300g grated matured yellow cheese

• 2 eggs, beaten

HOW TO MAKE:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, egg, softened margarine, salt, and instant yeast.

2. Gradually add half of the water and mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Slowly add the remaining water, kneading the dough until it becomes soft and pliable.

4. Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in the bowl for 1 hour.

5. In a separate bowl, mix the grated halloumi, grated yellow cheese, and eggs until fully combined.

6. After the dough has risen, divide it into small balls (about the size of a walnut).

7. Using a rolling pin, flatten each dough ball into a thin circle.

8. Place about 1 teaspoon of the cheese filling in the center of the dough circle.

9. Fold the dough over the filling into a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal tightly. Optional: Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative finish.

10. Arrange the filled sambusak on a lined baking tray and brush the tops with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.

11. Bake in the preheated oven at 190°C for 20–25 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown. bel jibe