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Sambusa

Sambusa, also known as samosa, is a popular savory snack that originated in the Middle East and South Asia. It is a triangular-shaped pastry filled with a variety of ingredients, such as spiced potatoes, peas, lentils, minced meat, or cheese, and then fried or baked until crispy and golden brown. Sambusa is loved for its delicious flavors and versatility, as it can be enjoyed as a quick and satisfying snack or served as an appetizer at gatherings and celebrations.

Prep Time:

25 mins

Cook Time:

45 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 10 mins

Servings:

Yield:

2 dozen

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 leek, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

2 pounds ground beef

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground cardamom

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon water, or as needed

1 (14 ounce) package spring roll wrappers

1 quart oil for frying, or as needed

Directions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir onion, leek, and garlic in hot oil until onion is transparent. Add ground beef; cook and stir until still slightly pink and about halfway done. Season with cumin, cardamom, salt, and pepper; mix well. Continue cooking until beef is browned and crumbly. Remove the skillet from heat.

Step 2

Mix together flour and water in a small bowl to make a thin paste. Using one wrapper at a time, fold into the shape of a cone. Fill cone with beef mixture, close the top, and seal with paste. Repeat until wrappers or filling are used up.

Step 3

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 365 degrees F (170 degrees C). There should be enough oil to submerge sambusas. Fry sambusas, a few at a time, in hot oil until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

163

Calories

10g

Fat

11g

Carbs

Protein

Complement

The origins of sambusa can be traced back to ancient Persia, where it was believed to have been brought to India by Middle Eastern traders. From there, it spread to other parts of South Asia and eventually became a beloved street food and culinary staple in many countries. Sambusa has also made its way to other regions, such as East Africa, where it has been adapted to include local ingredients and flavors. Whether it's enjoyed as a humble street food or a delicacy at special occasions, sambusa continues to be a beloved and timeless snack enjoyed by people around the world.