Samsa, a savory pastry, is typically triangular and filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef) or cheese. The dough is made from flour, water, and a pinch of salt, rolled thin, and cut into squares. The filling is a flavorful mix of minced meat or cheese, onions, and spices like cumin and coriander. Each square is folded into a triangle, sealing the filling inside, and then baked until golden brown. Some variations include adding chopped vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.

Samsa has deep roots in Central Asian cuisine, particularly in countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan. Its origins trace back to the Silk Road era, where it was influenced by the culinary traditions of the Middle East and South Asia. The name "samsa" is believed to derive from the Persian word "sanbosag," which also inspired the Indian "samosa." Traditionally, samsa was baked in a tandoor, an oven common in Central Asian households, giving it a distinct, crispy texture. Today, samsa remains a popular street food and a staple at festive gatherings in the region.

Ingredients:

- For the Dough:

 - 3 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1 cup water

 - 1 teaspoon salt

- For the Filling:

 - 1 pound minced lamb or beef (or cheese for a vegetarian option)

 - 1 large onion, finely chopped

 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin

 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander

 - Salt and pepper to taste

Method of Preparation:

1. Prepare the Dough:

  - In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.

  - Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms.

  - Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

  - In a separate bowl, combine the minced meat (or cheese), chopped onion, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.

  - Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

3. Assemble the Samsa:

  - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  - Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thin sheet.

  - Cut the dough into 4-inch squares.

  - Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each square.

  - Fold the squares into triangles by bringing one corner to the opposite corner and pinching the edges to seal them.

4. Bake the Samsa:

  - Place the assembled samsa on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  - Brush the tops with a little water or beaten egg for a glossy finish (optional).

  - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

5. Serve:

  - Allow the samsa to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer or snack.

Nutrition Value:

For the Dough:

3 Cups All-Purpose Flour

  - Calories: Approximately 1365 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 279 grams

  - Protein: 39 grams

  - Fat: 3 grams

  - Sodium: 6 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins:

   - B-vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and folate)

  - Minerals:

   - Iron: 14 milligrams

   - Magnesium: 84 milligrams

   - Phosphorus: 474 milligrams

   - Potassium: 357 milligrams

Benefits: All-purpose flour is a significant source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content. It provides essential B-vitamins that aid in energy metabolism and iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood.

1 Cup Water

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 0 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: None

Benefits: Water is vital for all bodily functions. It helps maintain hydration, aids in digestion, regulates body temperature, and supports cellular functions.

1 Teaspoon Salt

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 2325 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals:

   - Sodium: 2325 milligrams

Benefits:Salt is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function. However, it should be consumed in moderation to prevent hypertension and other cardiovascular issues.

For the Filling:

1 pound minced lamb or beef (or cheese for a vegetarian option)

  - Calories: Lamb: ~650 kcal, Beef: ~800 kcal, Cheese: ~1130 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Minimal, around 0-2 grams

  - Protein: Lamb: ~68 grams, Beef: ~80 grams, Cheese: ~70 grams

  - Fat: Lamb: ~53 grams, Beef: ~64 grams, Cheese: ~90 grams

  - Sodium: Varies widely depending on preparation, but generally low in fresh meat

  - Cholesterol: Lamb: ~220 mg, Beef: ~240 mg, Cheese: ~300 mg

  - Vitamins: High in B vitamins, particularly B12, and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E in cheese

  - Minerals: Rich in iron, zinc, and selenium

Benefit: Provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as vital micronutrients necessary for overall health

1 large onion, finely chopped

  - Calories: ~44 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~10 grams

  - Protein: ~1 gram

  - Fat: Minimal, around 0 grams

  - Sodium: Very low, around 4 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: High in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and folate

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, manganese, and small amounts of calcium and magnesium

Benefit: Onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds, which may support heart health and have anti-inflammatory effects

1 teaspoon ground cumin

  - Calories: ~8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~1 gram

  - Protein: ~0.4 grams

  - Fat: ~0.5 grams

  - Sodium: ~4 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and several B vitamins

  - Minerals: Rich in iron, and also contains calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus

Benefit: Cumin is known for its digestive health benefits and can help improve gut health due to its antimicrobial properties

1 teaspoon ground coriander

  - Calories: ~5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~1 gram

  - Protein: ~0.2 grams

  - Fat: ~0.2 grams

  - Sodium: ~1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, and several B vitamins

  - Minerals: Provides iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium

Benefit: Coriander is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve digestion and regulate blood sugar levels

Salt and pepper to taste

  - Calories: Minimal, around 0 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: Varies depending on the amount used; salt is typically around 2,300 mg of sodium per teaspoon

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: None in significant amounts

  - Minerals: Pepper contains small amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium

Benefit: Salt is essential for electrolyte balance and proper nerve function, but should be used in moderation. Pepper contains piperine, which can enhance nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties