Mangu

samsa

Next Dish: Arroz de Marisco

Samsa is a popular Central Asian pastry, traditionally baked in a tandoor. The dish typically features a filling of minced meat, onions, and spices, enclosed in a flaky, triangular pastry shell. Variations of the dish can also include pumpkin, potatoes, or cheese. Samsa is often served with tea or as a part of festive and ceremonial meals.

flour

water

salt

butter

garlic

sesame seeds

beef

black pepper

cumin

egg

ground lamb

onion

Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of flour

  • 1/2 cup of water

  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt

  • 1/2 cup of butter

  • 1 pound of ground lamb or beef

  • 1 large onion

  • 2 cloves of garlic

  • 1 teaspoon of cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds


Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

  2. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb or beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain the excess fat.

  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the cumin and black pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool.

  4. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a large round cutter or a glass.

  5. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, and press the edges together to seal. Place the samsas on a baking sheet.

  6. In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the tops of the samsas with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the samsas are golden brown. Serve hot.