Sambusa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade sambusas are packed with flavor, featuring a perfectly seasoned meat filling encased in a thin, crispy pastry. They’re great for serving at gatherings, as a side dish, or simply as a delicious snack. Plus, they can be made ahead and frozen for convenience!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for spice)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Dough (or Use Store-Bought Spring Roll Wrappers):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter
• 1/2 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

For Frying:

• 2 cups vegetable oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
3. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Stir in the cumin, coriander, cardamom, salt, pepper, and red chili powder. Cook for another 5 minutes until fragrant.
5. Remove from heat, stir in chopped cilantro, and let the filling cool.

Step 2: Make the Dough (Skip if Using Store-Bought Wrappers)

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the oil or melted butter, then slowly add warm water while kneading.
3. Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms (about 5-7 minutes). Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Sambusas

1. Roll out the dough and cut it into strips about 3 inches wide.
2. Place a spoonful of the meat filling on one end, fold into a triangle, and continue folding until fully sealed. Use a little water to seal the edges.
3. If using store-bought wrappers, place the filling in the center, fold into a triangle, and seal with water or flour paste.

Step 4: Fry the Sambusas

1. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry sambusas in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with chutney, yogurt sauce, or a side of spiced tea.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12-15 sambusas
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Sambusas: Use spiced mashed potatoes, peas, and carrots instead of meat.
• Baked Version: Brush with oil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Cheese Sambusas: Add crumbled feta or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked sambusas for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.

FAQs

Can I use phyllo dough for sambusas?

Yes! Phyllo dough works but is more delicate. Brush with oil before baking or frying.

What dipping sauce goes well with sambusas?

Try chutney, yogurt sauce, or a spicy harissa dip.

Can I air-fry sambusas?

Yes, air-fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I prevent sambusas from opening while frying?

Seal the edges tightly using a flour paste (flour + water) or egg wash.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes! The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

Sambusas are a flavorful, crispy, and satisfying snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you fry or bake them, their spiced filling and golden crust make them irresistible. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a taste of Somali cuisine at home!

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