Explore the flavors of Kenya with this traditional snack, the Kenya Samosa. These crispy pastries are filled with a delicious blend of spiced meat, vegetables, or lentils, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether fried or baked, they make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.

Here's a recipe for Kenya Samosas:

Ingredients:

 - 1 cup all-purpose flour

 - Water (for dough)

 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

 - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

 - 1/2 teaspoon cumin

 - 1/2 teaspoon coriander

 - 1/2 teaspoon ginger

 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

 - 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb (you can also use vegetables or lentils)

 - 1 small onion, finely chopped

 - 1 small potato, boiled and mashed

 - Oil for frying

 - Salt to taste

Directions:

Make the Dough:

1- In a bowl, combine the flour, 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and enough water to make a stiff dough. Knead the dough for a few minutes, then cover it with a damp cloth and set it aside for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1- Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat.

2- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.

3- Add the ground meat (or vegetables/lentils) and cook until browned.

4- Stir in the mashed potato and spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, garlic powder, and salt). Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assemble the Samosas:

1- Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.

2- Cut each circle in half to form semi-circles.

3- Take one semi-circle, brush the edges with water, and form a cone shape, overlapping the edges.

4- Fill the cone with the meat or vegetable filling.

5- Fold over the top edge to seal the samosa.

Fry or Bake the Samosas:

1- To fry: Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the samosas until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

2- To bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the samosas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve:

1- Serve the Kenya Samosas hot with chutney or sauce of your choice.

Enjoy your homemade Kenya Samosas!

Nutritional Values:

Here's the approximate nutritional information for the ingredients used in the Kenya Samosa recipe. Please note that actual values may vary based on specific brands and quantities used:

1 cup all-purpose flour:

  - Calories: 455 kcal

  - Fat: 1.2 g

  - Carbohydrates: 95 g

  - Protein: 13 g

Benefits: Provides essential carbohydrates for energy and a moderate amount of protein. Contributes to the structure of baked goods.

Water (for dough):

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Essential for hydrating the flour to create dough and necessary for all bodily functions, including digestion and temperature regulation.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil:

  - Calories: 120 kcal

  - Fat: 14 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Adds moisture and richness to the dough. Provides essential fatty acids and helps in creating a tender texture.

1/2 teaspoon salt:

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake and maintain healthy blood pressure.

1/2 teaspoon turmeric:

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Fat: 0.2 g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.4 g

  - Protein: 0.3 g

Benefits: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Supports joint health and overall wellness.

1/2 teaspoon cumin:

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Fat: 0.5 g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.1 g

  - Protein: 0.4 g

Benefits: Aids digestion and provides antioxidants. Adds warm, earthy flavor to the dish.

1/2 teaspoon coriander:

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Fat: 0.3 g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.0 g

  - Protein: 0.2 g

Benefits: Supports digestive health and provides antioxidants. Adds a mild, citrusy flavor.

1/2 teaspoon ginger:

  - Calories: 2 kcal

  - Fat: 0.02 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

Benefits: Contains gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Aids in digestion and can help relieve nausea.

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder:

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Fat: 0.03 g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.2 g

  - Protein: 0.2 g

Benefits: Contains compounds with antibacterial and antiviral properties. Supports immune health and adds savory flavor.

1/2 pound ground beef or lamb (or vegetables or lentils):

Ground Beef:

   - Calories: 300 kcal

   - Fat: 25 g

   - Carbohydrates: 0 g

   - Protein: 20 g

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. Supports muscle growth and repair.

Vegetables/Lentils (alternatives):

   - Calories: 150-200 kcal (for lentils)

   - Fat: 0.5-1 g

   - Carbohydrates: 30-35 g

   - Protein: 12-15 g

Benefits: Lentils are high in protein, fiber, and iron. They support heart health, digestive health, and sustained energy.

1 small onion, finely chopped:

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 11 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits: Adds flavor and provides antioxidants. Supports heart health and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

1 small potato, boiled and mashed:

  - Calories: 130 kcal

  - Fat: 0.2 g

  - Carbohydrates: 30 g

  - Protein: 2 g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Supports energy levels and digestive health.

Oil for frying:

  - Calories: 120 kcal per tablespoon

  - Fat: 14 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Adds crispiness and richness to the pastries. Choose a healthy oil for frying and use in moderation to manage calorie and fat intake.

Salt to taste:

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to control sodium intake.

Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods used.