Transform the traditional Ramadan sambousa into an innovative sweet treat by incorporating premium Emirati dates. This unique recipe combines crispy pastry with the rich, complex flavors of stuffed dates, creating the perfect addition to your Iftar spread. Easy to prepare ahead and absolutely irresistible when served warm, these sweet sambousas will become a new family favorite.
Why This Recipe Works for Ramadan
- Can be prepared in advance and frozen
- Perfect for sharing at Iftar
- Combines traditional format with unique flavors
- Quick to heat and serve
- Light yet satisfying
- Ideal finger food for gatherings
- Elegant presentation
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 20 sambousa wrappers (available at local markets)
- 1 egg white, lightly beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Filling:
- 15 The Date Room Kholas Dates stuffed with Caramelised Pecans
- 10 The Date Room Kholas Dates stuffed with Pistachio
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- Pinch of sea salt
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar
- Ground pistachios
- The Date Room Caramelised Pecans, crushed
Method
- Prepare the Filling:
- Roughly chop the stuffed dates
- Mix different varieties together
- Add cardamom and salt
- Mix gently to combine
- Form the Sambousas:
- Place wrapper in diamond position
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of filling near corner
- Fold corner over filling to form triangle
- Continue folding maintaining triangle shape
- Seal final edge with egg white
- Prepare for Cooking:
- Arrange completed sambousas on tray
- Ensure they don’t touch
- Cover with cloth if not frying immediately
- Cooking Method:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C)
- Fry in batches until golden brown
- Drain on paper towels
- Allow to cool slightly
- Final Presentation:
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Sprinkle with crushed nuts
- Serve while warm
Make-Ahead Options
For Ramadan Preparation:
- Prepare sambousas completely
- Freeze in single layer on tray
- Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags
- Can be stored frozen for up to 1 month
- Fry directly from frozen (add 1-2 minutes cooking time)
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Arabic coffee or tea
- Vanilla ice cream
- Date Dibs for dipping
- As part of a dessert platter
- Alongside fresh fruit
- With crushed pistachios for extra crunch
Why Choose The Date Room Stuffed Dates
The success of these sambousas depends on using high-quality stuffed dates. The Date Room’s premium stuffed dates, particularly our Kholas Dates with Caramelised Pecans and Pistachio varieties, provide the perfect balance of sweetness and texture needed for this recipe.
Tips for Perfect Sambousas
- Wrapper Handling:
- Keep wrappers covered while working
- Work quickly to prevent drying
- Ensure tight seals
- Don’t overfill
- Frying Tips:
- Maintain correct oil temperature
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Fry until golden brown
- Drain well
- Storage Tips:
- Keep fried sambousas in airtight container
- Best consumed same day
- Can be reheated in oven
- Store uncooked ones in freezer
Variations
Create different versions using:
- Different stuffed date varieties
- Add nuts or spices
- Mix with cream cheese
- Include orange zest
- Try different shapes
Nutritional Notes
While these are a treat, they offer benefits:
- Natural sweetness from dates
- Protein from nuts
- No artificial sweeteners
- Portion-controlled servings
- Energy-rich for breaking fast
Visit our website www.thedateroom.com or our store in Abu Dhabi to select your perfect stuffed dates for this recipe and explore our full range of premium Emirati products.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If filling is too loose, chop dates more finely
- If sambousas open while frying, seal edges better
- If browning too quickly, lower oil temperature
- If oily, drain better and use proper temperature
Make your Ramadan gatherings extra special with these unique date-stuffed sambousas. For more innovative recipes and inspiration, follow us on social media and visit our blog regularly throughout the holy month.
A Sweet Note from The Date Room Family: Our recipes are created with love and shared in the spirit of Ramadan generosity. While we use our premium dates and ingredients in specific measurements, we encourage you to adjust flavors to your preference – after all, every family has its own special touch! As with any culinary journey, please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions, and feel free to adapt ingredients accordingly. Each kitchen and cooking experience is unique, so consider our measurements and timing as friendly guidelines rather than strict rules. Most importantly, we hope these recipes bring joy and warmth to your Ramadan table.
