Sambousik bi Jibni (Feta Cheese filled Pastry Crescents)

Sambousik Bi Jibni, also known as cheese-filled sambousik, is a delicious and savory pastry popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. These pastries are typically served as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a larger meal. This recipe will yield approximately 6 servings.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sumac (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)

Preparation

For the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter.
2. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the plain yogurt, mixing with a spoon or your hands until the dough comes together. You may need to add a bit more yogurt or flour to achieve the right consistency. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.

For the Filling:

5. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, finely chopped fresh parsley, and optional fresh mint.
6. Add the finely chopped onion and the seasonings, including black pepper, ground sumac (if using), and cayenne pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Assembly:

7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Take the rested dough and divide it into six equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
9. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough ball into a circle about 6 inches in diameter. You want the dough to be thin, but not too thin to hold the filling.
10. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese and herb filling in the center of the dough circle.
11. Fold the dough in half to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal the sambousik. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
12. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling, making a total of six sambousik pastries.
13. Place the assembled pastries on the prepared baking sheet.

Baking:

14. Brush the tops of the sambousik pastries with the beaten egg. This will give them a lovely golden color when baked.
15. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and the cheese filling is bubbling.

Serving:

16. Once out of the oven, allow the sambousik to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
17. Sambousik Bi Jibni is typically served with a side of plain yogurt or a tahini dipping sauce, which complements the savory and cheesy flavors perfectly.
18. Enjoy your homemade cheese-filled sambousik as a delightful Middle Eastern snack or appetizer.

These sambousik pastries offer a delightful combination of cheesy, savory goodness with a touch of Mediterranean herbs and spices. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family as a flavorful addition to any gathering or as a tasty treat for yourself.