Discover how to make Samboosa, delicious pastries that can be fried or baked to perfection. Filled with a savory mixture of meat, vegetables, or lentils, these versatile treats are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or party bites. Follow our easy recipe to create crispy, golden Samboosas that are sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

 - 1 lb ground meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)

 - 1 onion, finely chopped

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 1 cup cooked lentils (optional)

 - 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, potatoes), finely chopped

 - 2 tsp ground cumin

 - 1 tsp ground coriander

 - 1/2 tsp turmeric

 - 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)

 - Salt and black pepper to taste

 - 2 tbsp oil (for cooking)

For the Pastry:

 - 1 package of Samboosa or spring roll wrappers (available at most grocery stores or Asian markets)

 - Oil (for frying or brushing on for baking)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

  - Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook until softened and golden brown.

  - Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

  - Stir in the spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder) and cook for another 2 minutes.

  - If using lentils, add them to the pan along with the chopped vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the filling is well mixed. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Samboosa:

  - If using pre-made wrappers, separate them and place them on a clean surface. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

  - Place a small spoonful of the filling onto one end of the wrapper. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up tightly to form a triangular or rectangular shape. Seal the edges with a bit of water.

Cooking Options:

Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the Samboosas in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled Samboosas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with a little oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy:

  - Serve your Samboosas hot with your favorite dipping sauces like yogurt sauce, chutney, or a spicy salsa.

Enjoy your homemade Samboosas as a delightful appetizer or snack for any occasion!

Nutritional values

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values and benefits for the ingredients used in the filling and pastry:

Ground Meat (1 lb)

Beef (per 100g):

 - Calories: 250

 - Fat: 20g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 20g

Lamb (per 100g):

 - Calories: 290

 - Fat: 24g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 20g

Chicken (per 100g):

 - Calories: 165

 - Fat: 3.6g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 31g

Benefits:

 - Provides high-quality protein.

 - Beef and lamb are rich in iron and zinc, while chicken is leaner with less fat.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

 - Calories: 60

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 14g

 - Protein: 1g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and provides vitamins such as vitamin C and B vitamins.

 - Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

 - Calories: 4

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.2g

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, which may have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties.

 - Adds flavor with minimal calories.

Cooked Lentils (1 cup, optional)

 - Calories: 230

 - Fat: 0.8g

 - Carbohydrates: 40g

 - Protein: 18g

Benefits:

 - High in protein and fiber.

 - Rich in iron, folate, and other essential nutrients.

Mixed Vegetables (1 cup, finely chopped)

Carrots (per 100g):

 - Calories: 41

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 0.9g

Peas (per 100g):

 - Calories: 81

 - Fat: 0.4g

 - Carbohydrates: 14g

 - Protein: 5g

Potatoes (per 100g):

 - Calories: 77

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 17g

 - Protein: 2g

Benefits:

 - Provides vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.

 - Adds texture and nutritional variety.

Ground Cumin (2 tsp)

 - Calories: 8

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.4g

Benefits:

 - Adds a warm, earthy flavor.

 - Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

Ground Coriander (1 tsp)

 - Calories: 6

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds a mild, citrusy flavor.

 - Contains antioxidants and may have digestive benefits.

Turmeric (1/2 tsp)

 - Calories: 4

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.1g

Benefits:

 - Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Chili Powder (1/2 tsp)

 - Calories: 6

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds spiciness and flavor.

 - Contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting effects.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

Salt:

  - Sodium: High; use in moderation.

Benefits:

  - Enhances flavor.

  - Provides essential minerals but should be used sparingly to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Black Pepper:

  - Calories: 6

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

  - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

  - Contains antioxidants.

  - Adds a mild spiciness and enhances overall flavor.

Oil (for cooking, 2 tbsp)

 - Calories: 120

 - Fat: 14g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds fat for cooking, which helps in browning and flavor development.

Pastry Ingredients and Nutritional Information:

Samboosa or Spring Roll Wrappers

 - Calories: 50-80

 - Fat: 2-4g

 - Carbohydrates: 8-12g

 - Protein: 1-2g

Benefits:

 - Provides a crispy, crunchy texture.

 - Often used as a base for filling various savory ingredients.

Oil (for frying or brushing)

 - Calories: 120

 - Fat: 14g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds fat for frying, which creates a crispy texture.

This filling combines protein-rich meats with nutritious vegetables and spices, creating a flavorful and balanced mixture. The spices add depth and complexity, while the lentils (if used) provide extra protein and fiber. The pastry wrappers offer a crispy texture, while oil enhances the cooking process and flavor.