Sambousek, a popular Middle Eastern dish, is known for its crispy pastry shell and flavorful fillings, which can include meat, cheese, or vegetables. The recipe typically involves preparing a simple dough, filling it with the desired ingredients, and then shaping and frying or baking until golden and crispy. 

Historically, sambousek has roots in the Levant region, with variations found across countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. It is believed to have originated from the Ottoman Empire, where it was influenced by Turkish cuisine. Over time, it has become a beloved snack or appetizer in many Middle Eastern households and is often served during festive occasions or gatherings. 

Today, sambousek continues to be cherished for its delicious flavors and versatility, making it a favorite dish enjoyed by people around the world.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1/2 cup water

- Filling of your choice (e.g., minced meat, feta cheese, spinach)

Method:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil.

2. Gradually pour in the water while mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.

3. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer.

5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles.

6. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each circle.

7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

8. If baking, place the sambousek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. If frying, carefully lower the sambousek into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

9. Once cooked, remove from the oven or oil and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious sambousek!

Nutrition Value:

1. 2 cups all-purpose flour:

  - Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 170 grams

  - Protein: About 20 grams

  - Fat: Negligible (less than 1 gram)

  - Sodium: Minimal (less than 5 milligrams)

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of B vitamins, especially niacin and riboflavin

  - Minerals: Provides small amounts of iron and magnesium

  - Nutritional Benefit: All-purpose flour is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy. It also contains some protein and essential nutrients like iron, which helps transport oxygen in the body.

2. 1/2 teaspoon salt:

  - Calories: Negligible (less than 5 kcal)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible (less than 1 gram)

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Approximately 1150 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: Consists mainly of sodium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Salt adds flavor to the sambousek dough, but it should be used in moderation as excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.

3. 1/4 cup olive oil:

  - Calories: Around 480 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: None

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: Approximately 54 grams

  - Sodium: Negligible (less than 5 milligrams)

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant

  - Minerals: Provides small amounts of iron and calcium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. It also contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

4. 1/2 cup water:

  - Calories: None

  - Carbohydrates: None

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: None

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration and for binding the dough ingredients together. It has no calories or nutrients but is vital for various bodily functions.

5. Filling of your choice (e.g., minced meat, feta cheese, spinach):

  - The nutritional values will vary depending on the specific filling chosen.

  - Minced meat: Provides protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals, but can also be high in saturated fat and cholesterol.

  - Feta cheese: Contains protein, fat, calcium, and vitamin D, but is also high in sodium and saturated fat.

  - Spinach: Low in calories and carbohydrates, spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and folate.

Overall, sambousek can be a tasty treat, but it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and ingredient choices to ensure a balanced diet.