Discover the authentic taste of Somali cuisine with our easy-to-follow Sambuusa recipe. These crispy, golden-brown samosas are stuffed with a flavorful filling of spiced meat or vegetables, perfect as a snack or appetizer. Learn how to make this traditional dish at home with step-by-step instructions. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

- For the dough:

 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1/2 tsp salt

 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil

 - 3/4 cup warm water

- For the filling:

 - 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or mixed vegetables for a vegetarian option)

 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 1 tsp cumin powder

 - 1 tsp coriander powder

 - 1/2 tsp turmeric

 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

 - 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

 - 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)

 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

 - 2 tbsp oil (for sautéing)

- For frying:

 - Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Instructions

Prepare the dough:

  - In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add oil and mix until crumbly.

  - Gradually add warm water and knead into a smooth, elastic dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the filling:

  - Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft and golden.

  - Add ground meat (or vegetables) and cook until browned.

  - Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

  - If using, add the green chili and cook for an additional minute.

  - Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro. Let the filling cool.

Assemble the Sambuusa:

  - Divide the dough into small balls and roll each one into thin circles.

  - Cut each circle into halves to form semi-circles.

  - Take a semi-circle, fold into a cone shape, and fill with the spiced meat or vegetable mixture.

  - Seal the edges with a little water, pressing firmly to ensure they are tightly closed.

Fry the Sambuusa:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat.

  - Fry the Sambuusa in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes).

  - Drain on paper towels.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve hot with chutney or a side of tamarind sauce for dipping. Enjoy this Somali delicacy with tea or as a savory snack!

Nutritional values

For the Dough:

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups)

 - Calories: About 364 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 76 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams

 - Fat: 1 gram

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy, some protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Salt (1/2 tsp)

 - Sodium: About 38,000 mg

Benefits: Enhances flavor and helps with fluid balance. Use in moderation to avoid health issues related to high sodium intake.

Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp)

 - Calories: About 884 kcal

 - Fat: 100 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds moisture and fat to the dough. Provides essential fatty acids, depending on the type of oil used.

Warm Water (3/4 cup)

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits: Hydrates and helps in forming the dough. Essential for many physiological processes and overall health.

For the Filling:

Ground Beef or Lamb (1 lb)

 - Calories: About 250 kcal (for beef)

 - Protein: 26 grams

 - Fat: 20 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

Benefits: Provides protein, essential amino acids, and various vitamins and minerals. Opt for lean cuts to reduce fat content.

Onion (1 medium)

 - Calories: About 40 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Garlic (2 cloves)

 - Calories: About 149 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 33 grams

 - Protein: 6 grams

 - Fat: 0.5 grams

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cumin Powder (1 tsp)

 - Calories: About 375 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 44 grams

 - Protein: 18 grams

 - Fat: 22 grams

Benefits: Adds flavor and provides antioxidants and digestive benefits.

Coriander Powder (1 tsp)

 - Calories: About 298 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 55 grams

 - Protein: 12 grams

 - Fat: 14 grams

Benefits: Aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidants.

Turmeric (1/2 tsp)

 - Calories: About 312 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 67 grams

 - Protein: 7 grams

 - Fat: 3 grams

Benefits: Adds color and flavor, and contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Black Pepper (1/2 tsp)

 - Calories: About 251 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 64 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams

 - Fat: 3 grams

Benefits: Adds heat and can aid in digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.

Salt (1/2 tsp)

 - Sodium: About 38,000 mg

Benefits: Enhances flavor; use in moderation to avoid health issues related to high sodium intake.

Green Chili (1, finely chopped)

 - Calories: About 40 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

 - Protein: 2 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds heat and contains vitamins A and C, as well as capsaicin, which can aid metabolism.

Fresh Cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped)

 - Calories: About 23 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

 - Protein: 2 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds fresh flavor and contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Oil (2 tbsp for sautéing)

 - Calories: About 884 kcal

 - Fat: 100 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Used for cooking and flavor. Depending on the type, it can provide healthy fats.

For Frying:

Vegetable Oil (for deep frying)

 - Calories: About 884 kcal

 - Fat: 100 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Used for frying, providing a crispy texture. Can be a source of healthy fats, depending on the type of oil.

This combination of ingredients provides a flavorful and satisfying filling encased in a dough that can be enjoyed in various dishes.