Sambousek jibneh is a delightful Middle Eastern appetizer that combines a crispy exterior with a rich, cheesy filling. These turnovers are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a savory snack. The combination of feta and mozzarella cheeses, along with fresh parsley, creates a mouthwatering flavor that is sure to impress.
Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Feta cheese and mozzarella cheese are essential for the filling, providing a perfect blend of tangy and creamy flavors. Additionally, parsley adds a fresh, herby note to the turnovers. Make sure to pick these up at your local supermarket if you don't already have them on hand.

Ingredients For Sambousek Jibneh
All-purpose flour: The base for the dough, providing structure and texture.
Feta cheese: A tangy, crumbly cheese that adds a distinctive flavor to the filling.
Mozzarella cheese: A mild, stretchy cheese that complements the feta and adds creaminess.
Parsley: Freshly chopped to add a burst of herbal freshness to the filling.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the dough and filling.
Water: Helps to bind the dough together.
Olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
Egg: Used for the egg wash to give the turnovers a golden, glossy finish.
Technique Tip for Making Cheese Turnovers
When sealing the edges of the dough circles, ensure they are tightly pressed together to prevent the cheese mixture from leaking out during cooking. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and extra security.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may result in a denser texture.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a good alternative.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone melts well and has a mild flavor similar to mozzarella.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the cheese filling.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral profile.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and softer texture to the dough.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral-tasting oil that can be used in the same quantity.
egg - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used as an egg wash to achieve a similar golden-brown finish.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to Cheese Turnovers
How to Store/Freeze Cheese Turnovers
- Allow the sambousek jibneh to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the turnovers soggy.
- Place the cooled turnovers in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
- For longer storage, arrange the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen sambousek to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen sambousek jibneh can be stored for up to 3 months.
- To reheat from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown. No need to thaw before baking.
- Avoid microwaving as it can make the turnovers chewy rather than crispy.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Sambousek Jibneh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and the crust is crispy.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat the Sambousek Jibneh for about 8-10 minutes. This method ensures the turnovers remain crispy without becoming too dry.
If you prefer using a microwave, place the Sambousek Jibneh on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may result in a softer crust.
For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the Sambousek Jibneh in the basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain a crispy exterior.
On the stovetop, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and place the Sambousek Jibneh in the skillet. Heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy.
Best Tools for Making Cheese Turnovers
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour and salt, and later to mix the water and olive oil into the dough.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, water, and olive oil.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt.
Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the dough ingredients together before kneading.
Clean surface: Needed for kneading the dough.
Kitchen towel: Used to cover the dough while it rests.
Rolling pin: Required to roll out the dough into thin circles.
Round cutter: Helps in cutting the rolled dough into uniform circles.
Small bowl: Used to mix the feta, mozzarella, and parsley.
Spoon: For placing the cheese mixture onto the dough circles.
Fork: Useful for sealing the edges of the turnovers.
Pastry brush: Needed to apply the egg wash on the turnovers.
Deep fryer: If you choose to fry the turnovers, this will be used to cook them until golden brown.
Baking sheet: If you choose to bake the turnovers, this will be used to place them in the oven.
Oven: Required if you opt to bake the turnovers.
Cooling rack: Useful for letting the turnovers cool down after frying or baking.
How to Save Time on Making Cheese Turnovers
Prepare the filling: Mix the feta, mozzarella, and parsley ahead of time and store in the fridge.
Pre-made dough: Use store-bought dough to skip the kneading and resting steps.
Batch processing: Roll out and cut all the dough circles at once to streamline assembly.
Assembly line: Set up an assembly line with dough circles, cheese mixture, and egg wash for faster turnover creation.
Freeze for later: Make a large batch and freeze the uncooked sambousek for quick frying or baking later.

Sambousek Jibneh (Fried/Baked Cheese Turnover)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ cup Water
- ¼ cup Olive oil
- 1 unit Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add water and olive oil, mix until dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix feta, mozzarella, and parsley.
- Roll out the dough and cut into circles.
- Place a spoonful of cheese mixture in the center of each circle, fold and seal edges.
- Brush with egg wash.
- Fry in hot oil until golden brown or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Main Courses and Desserts for Cheese Turnovers
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