Samsa, a beloved Central Asian delicacy, consists of savory triangular pastries filled with a tantalizing mixture of seasoned meat, onions, and spices. Originating from the culinary traditions of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and surrounding regions, samsa has a rich history dating back centuries. Traditionally baked in a tandoor oven, these pastries boast a crispy exterior and a flavorful, succulent filling. Over time, samsa has evolved into a staple dish enjoyed at celebrations, gatherings, and everyday meals, showcasing the culinary diversity and cultural heritage of the region.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 package of puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)

- Vegetable oil for brushing

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté until softened.

4. Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional minute to combine the flavors. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

5. Unroll the puff pastry sheets onto a clean work surface. Cut each sheet into squares or triangles, depending on your preference.

6. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto one half of each pastry square or triangle, leaving a border around the edges.

7. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges together firmly to seal.

8. Transfer the filled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.

9. Brush the tops of the pastries with vegetable oil to promote browning.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy.

11. Serve hot or warm, and enjoy your delicious homemade samsa!

Nutrition Value:

1. Ground Beef or Lamb (1 lb / 450g)

  - Calories: Approximately 1,150 kcal (for beef) to 1,600 kcal (for lamb)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 90g (for beef) to 100g (for lamb)

  - Fat: Approximately 85g (for beef) to 110g (for lamb)

  - Sodium: Varies depending on preparation, but typically around 75-100mg per 100g

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 250-300mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and other nutrients. However, it's also high in saturated fat and cholesterol, so moderation is key.

2. Onion (1 large, finely chopped)

  - Calories: Approximately 60 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 14g

  - Protein: Approximately 1.5g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.2g

  - Sodium: Approximately 5mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, and contain fiber, vitamin C, and various other vitamins and minerals. They also add flavor without significant calories or fat.

3. Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced)

  - Calories: Approximately 5-10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.2-0.3g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1-3mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Garlic is known for its medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system, reducing blood pressure, and improving heart health. It also contains antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.

4. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.4g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.5g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Cumin is a good source of antioxidants and may aid digestion. It also contains small amounts of iron and other essential nutrients.

5. Paprika (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.4g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.3g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.3g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Paprika contains vitamin A, vitamin E, and antioxidants such as carotenoids. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to heart health.

6. Salt and Pepper to Taste

  - Nutritional Benefits: Salt provides sodium, which is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body. However, excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues, so moderation is important. Pepper adds flavor without significant nutritional content.

7. Puff Pastry Sheets (1 package, thawed if frozen)

  - Nutritional values can vary significantly depending on the brand and ingredients used. Typically, puff pastry is high in calories, carbohydrates, and fats, particularly saturated fats. It may also contain small amounts of sodium and minimal protein. Additionally, some brands may fortify their puff pastry with vitamins and minerals, but this is not universal.

8. Vegetable Oil for Brushing

  - Nutritional values depend on the type of oil used (e.g., olive oil, canola oil, etc.). Generally, vegetable oil provides calories and fat, with minimal or no carbohydrates, protein, sodium, or cholesterol. It may contain vitamin E and other antioxidants, depending on the source.

Overall, while samsa can be a tasty treat, it's important to consume it in moderation due to its potential high calorie, fat, and sodium content, particularly from ingredients like puff pastry and meat. Adding plenty of onions and garlic can provide additional flavor and nutritional benefits without significantly increasing calorie or fat content.