Samsa, also known as samosa in some regions, is a traditional Central Asian and Middle Eastern pastry that has gained popularity worldwide. It consists of a flaky, buttery dough filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, often lamb, along with onions, herbs, and spices. The filling is typically seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor.

The history of samsa dates back centuries, with its origins believed to be in Central Asia, particularly in Uzbekistan, where it is a staple dish enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. Over time, samsa has spread to other regions, adapted to local tastes and ingredients, and become a beloved snack or appetizer in various cuisines.

The preparation of samsa involves rolling out thin layers of dough, filling them with the meat mixture, and folding them into triangular or rectangular shapes before baking until golden and crispy. It is often served hot and accompanied by yogurt, chutney, or sauces for dipping, adding to its irresistible appeal as a flavorful and satisfying treat.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound minced lamb (you can also use beef or chicken)

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 package of frozen puff pastry dough, thawed

- Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water)

Instructions:

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 minced lamb until browned and cooked through. Remove excess fat if necessary.

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

4. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the spices release their aroma.

5. Roll out the puff pastry dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

6. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each pastry square, then fold the dough over to form triangles or rectangles. Press the edges with a fork to seal.

7. Brush the tops of the samsa with the egg wash for a golden finish.

8. Transfer the samsa to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.

9. Serve hot or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce or yogurt on the side.

This recipe keeps the ingredients straightforward and follows a typical preparation method for samsa, ensuring a delicious outcome without unnecessary complexity.

Nutrition Value:

1. Minced Lamb (1 pound):

  - Calories: Approximately 960 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible (less than 1 gram)

  - Protein: About 90 grams

  - Fat: Around 65 grams

  - Sodium: Varies based on seasoning and processing, typically around 200-300 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 300 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains B vitamins (especially B12) and some vitamin D

  - Minerals: Rich in zinc, iron, and phosphorus

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and important minerals for muscle function, red blood cell production, and overall health.

2. Onion (1 large, finely chopped):

  - Calories: Around 45 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 11 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 1 gram

  - Fat: Negligible (less than 1 gram)

  - Sodium: About 5 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and potassium

  - Minerals: Rich in antioxidants like quercetin, and also contains sulfur compounds

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides antioxidants, supports immune function, and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Around 15 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 3 grams

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Negligible (less than 1 gram)

  - Sodium: Around 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese

  - Minerals: Contains sulfur compounds like allicin

  - Nutritional Benefits: Offers immune-boosting properties, may help lower blood pressure, and has antioxidant effects.

4. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: About 8 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C and vitamin K

  - Minerals: Rich in iron and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides flavor, antioxidants, and may aid digestion.

5. Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: About 5 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin K, and small amounts of B vitamins

  - Minerals: Rich in manganese, iron, and magnesium

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor, may have digestive benefits, and provides antioxidants.

6. Paprika (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: About 3 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin E, and small amounts of vitamin C

  - Minerals: Rich in potassium and iron

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds color and flavor, may have antioxidant properties.

7. Salt and Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: Negligible (less than 5 calories for typical use)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Amount depends on usage, typically a few hundred milligrams per teaspoon of salt

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: None significant

  - Minerals: Provides sodium and trace minerals depending on the salt used

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor but should be used in moderation to control sodium intake.

8. Frozen Puff Pastry Dough (1 package, thawed):

  - Calories: Varies based on brand and size, typically around 1600-2000 calories per package

  - Carbohydrates: About 150-200 grams

  - Protein: Around 20-25 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 100-120 grams

  - Sodium: Varies based on brand, typically around 1000-1500 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: Varies based on ingredients, typically around 100-150 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Minimal, some B vitamins depending on ingredients

  - Minerals: Trace amounts depending on ingredients

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides energy from carbohydrates and fats, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.

9. Egg Wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water):

  - Calories: Around 70-80 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: About 6 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 5 grams

  - Sodium: Around 60-70 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: Around 185 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin D, and B vitamins like B12

  - Minerals: Contains selenium and phosphorus

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds a glossy finish to pastries and provides protein and essential nutrients from the egg.