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Crispy Sambusas Recipe

Sambusas Recipe

Sambusas are crispy, golden pastries filled with a flavorful spiced meat or vegetable mixture. This Crispy Sambusas Recipe offers a delicious, easy-to-make snack perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these tasty treats hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you’re preparing them for a special gathering, a holiday, or just as a quick snack, these sambusas deliver a satisfying crunch with each bite. The spiced filling and crisp exterior make them a crowd favorite, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for appetizers, parties, or side dishes!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine East African, Somali
Servings 12 sambusas
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Pastry brush
  • Large frying pan or deep fryer
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

For the Sambusa Dough:

  • 2 cups all-pupose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup warm water as needed

For the Filling (Spiced Beef):

  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp chili optional
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • salt to taste

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare the Dough
    In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and mix well.Gradually add warm water, stirring as you go, until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and set aside to rest while you prepare the filling.
    2. Cook the Filling
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5-6 minutes).Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine.Add salt to taste and stir in the fresh cilantro. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
    3. Roll and Cut the Dough
    Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball into a thin circle (about 6 inches in diameter).Cut each circle in half to form two semi-circles. Brush the straight edge of each semi-circle with a little water, then fold into a cone shape, pressing the edges together to seal.
    4. Fill the Sambusas
    Spoon a tablespoon of the filling into each dough cone. Fold over the top and seal tightly by pinching the edges. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
    5. Fry the Sambusas
    Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the sambusas in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch).Use tongs to remove the sambusas from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
    6. Serve
    Serve the crispy sambusas hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tamarind chutney, yogurt sauce, or a spicy dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the beef filling with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like potatoes, peas, carrots, and spices.
  • Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the sambusas at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the sambusas ahead of time and freeze them before frying. Fry them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.
  • Spice Level: If you like it spicy, increase the amount of chili powder or add chopped green chilies to the filling.
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