Potato Sambousek
These crispy, golden pastry pockets filled with a spiced potato mixture are a beloved Middle Eastern appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- •1 package (approx. 20 pieces) frozen sambousek or empanada dough wrappers
- •3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- •1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- •2 tablespoons olive oil
- •1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- •1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- •1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- •2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- •Salt and black pepper to taste
- •Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- 1
Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes, then drain and mash them until smooth.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent and lightly golden.
- 3
Add the mashed potatoes, cumin, coriander, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring well to combine the flavors.
- 4
Remove from heat, fold in the fresh cilantro, and let the mixture cool completely.
- 5
Place a tablespoon of the potato filling in the center of each dough wrapper.
- 6
Lightly moisten the edges of the dough with water, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
- 7
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- 8
Fry the sambousek in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning once, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- 9
Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
💡 Chef tips
- For a healthier version, you can brush the sambousek with olive oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- You can prepare the potato filling up to two days in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to assemble.
- Ensure the edges are sealed very tightly with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking into the oil during frying.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished sambousek should have a perfectly blistered, golden-brown crust that shatters upon biting, revealing a soft, aromatic, and savory spiced potato interior.