Discover how to make mouthwatering Samsa, a traditional pastry filled with savory meat, onions, and optional potatoes or pumpkin. Whether baked or fried, these flaky pastries are perfect for any occasion. Follow our step-by-step recipe to create these delicious treats that are sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

 - 3 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1 tsp salt

 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

 - 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)

 - 1 egg (for brushing)

For the Filling:

 - 1 lb ground beef or lamb

 - 1 large onion, finely chopped

 - 1 medium potato, peeled and grated (optional)

 - 1/2 cup pumpkin, peeled and grated (optional)

 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil

 - 1 tsp ground cumin

 - 1/2 tsp paprika

 - Salt and black pepper to taste

 - Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.

- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

- Gradually add water, mixing until the dough comes together.

- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.

- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.

- Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Break up any clumps.

- Stir in the grated potato and/or pumpkin, and cook for another 5 minutes.

- Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in chopped parsley or cilantro if using.

Assemble the Samsa:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.

- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.

- Cut into squares or circles, depending on your preference.

- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough piece.

- Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or pocket and seal the edges by pressing with a fork or pinching the dough together.

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

- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake or Fry:

- To Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

- To Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the samsa in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Serve:

- Enjoy your Samsa warm as an appetizer or a main dish. Serve with yogurt or a side salad for a complete meal. 

Feel free to adjust the spices and fillings to suit your taste!

Nutritional Value:

All-Purpose Flour:

 - Calories: 455

 - Carbohydrates: 95g

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

 - Provides carbohydrates for energy.

 - Acts as a base for various recipes, contributing to the texture and structure of baked goods.

Unsalted Butter:

 - Calories: 102

 - Fat: 12g

 - Saturated Fat: 7g

 - Cholesterol: 31mg

Benefits:

 - Adds richness and a flaky texture to the dough.

 - Provides a small amount of Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

Ground Beef or Lamb:

 - Calories: 250

 - Protein: 25g

 - Fat: 17g

 - Saturated Fat: 7g

 - Iron: 2.2mg

Benefits:

 - High-quality protein essential for muscle building and repair.

 - Important for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy levels.

 - Supports red blood cell formation and neurological function.

Onion:

 - Calories: 44

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which help combat oxidative stress.

 - Contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

Potato:

 - Calories: 110

 - Carbohydrates: 26g

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 20% of daily value

Benefits:

 - Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

 - Supports the immune system and skin health.

Pumpkin:

 - Calories: 49

 - Carbohydrates: 12g

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 3g

 - Vitamin A: 245% of daily value

Benefits:

 - Promotes healthy vision and immune function.

 - Contains beta-carotene, which has antioxidant properties.

Vegetable Oil:

 - Calories: 120

 - Fat: 14g

 - Saturated Fat: 1g

 - Monounsaturated Fat: 8g

 - Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g

Benefits:

 - Provides essential fatty acids that support heart health.

 - Helps in achieving a crispy texture when frying.

Ground Cumin:

 - Calories: 8

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0.5g

Benefits:

 - May aid digestion and help with gastrointestinal issues.

 - Contains antioxidants that support overall health.

Paprika:

 - Calories: 6

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides a small amount of Vitamin A, supporting vision and immune health.

 - Contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.

Fresh Parsley or Cilantro:

 - Calories: 4

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Vitamin C: 15% of daily value

 - Vitamin K: 150% of daily value

Benefits:

 - High in Vitamins C and K, supporting immune health and bone health.

 - Contains compounds that may aid digestion.

These ingredients not only contribute to the delicious flavor and texture of Samsa but also provide various health benefits.