Golden, crispy baked pastry rolls stuffed with a fragrant spiced beef mixture, garnished with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley—these Lebanese-inspired sambousek rolls are savory, crunchy, and perfect with creamy garlic dip or tangy yogurt sauce. They’re ideal as appetizers, mezze, or part of a festive dinner spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lebanese Meat & Pine Nut Rolls offer a perfect balance of savory flavors, delicate spices, and satisfying crunch. The cinnamon and allspice-infused meat filling wrapped in a golden, crispy shell is both comforting and refined. Whether you’re serving them as part of a mezze platter or enjoying them with a side salad, these rolls are easy to prepare, bake beautifully, and reheat well—making them a crowd-pleasing favorite for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

For the Rolls:

• 12 egg roll wrappers or thin spring roll pastry sheets
• 1 tbsp flour + 1 tbsp water (for sealing paste)
• Olive oil spray or brushing for baking

Topping:

• 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
• 1 tsp sumac (optional)
• Fresh chopped parsley

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
   • Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, breaking up any clumps.
   • Stir in pine nuts, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper.
   • Once fully cooked and fragrant, remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
   • Let the mixture cool slightly before assembling.
2. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Place one wrapper on a flat surface with a corner pointing toward you (like a diamond).
   • Add a spoonful of meat filling near the bottom.
   • Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly.
   • Seal the edge with a dab of the flour-water paste.
   • Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Bake the Rolls:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Arrange the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking tray.
   • Lightly brush or spray each roll with olive oil.
   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Top with extra toasted pine nuts, a sprinkle of sumac (if using), and chopped parsley.
   • Serve hot with garlic sauce or tahini yogurt dip.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 12 rolls (serves 4–6)
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 45 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Replace meat with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils sautéed with onion and spices.
• Add cheese: Include a bit of crumbled feta or halloumi in the filling for richness.
• Fry instead of bake: Deep fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden for a more traditional texture.
• Use phyllo dough: For a flakier version, use butter-brushed phyllo sheets instead of wrappers.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne or harissa paste to the meat mixture for heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

• Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for 6–8 minutes until crisp and heated through.
• Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the pastry.

Freezing:

• Freeze assembled, unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes.

FAQs

What are sambousek rolls?

Sambousek rolls are Middle Eastern savory pastries, typically filled with spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables and either baked or fried.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of egg roll wrappers?

Yes, phyllo will give a flakier texture. Use multiple layers brushed with butter for best results.

Are these traditionally fried or baked?

Traditionally, sambousek is often fried, but baking offers a lighter and equally delicious alternative.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What sauces go well with these?

Garlic yogurt dip, tahini sauce, or a lemony labneh are all excellent pairings.

Can I use ground chicken or turkey?

Yes, lean ground poultry works well, but you may want to increase the olive oil for moisture.

How do I keep the rolls from opening during baking?

Make sure to seal the edges well with the flour-water paste and place the rolls seam-side down.

What is sumac and do I need it?

Sumac is a tangy Middle Eastern spice. It’s optional but adds a nice sour contrast to the rich filling.

Can I serve these cold?

They’re best served warm or at room temperature, as the pastry can lose its crispness when cold.

Can I prepare these for a party?

Yes, these rolls are perfect for parties. Bake in advance and reheat just before serving for best results.

Conclusion

Lebanese Meat & Pine Nut Rolls (Sambousek Rolls) are a deliciously spiced, crisp, and satisfying addition to any table. With warm Middle Eastern flavors and an irresistible texture, they make an excellent appetizer, side dish, or main course when paired with fresh salads or dips. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or a weeknight dinner, these rolls are sure to impress with every bite.

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