Discover the rich flavors of Samsa, a beloved pastry hailing from Central Asia that's perfect for any occasion. These golden, flaky hand pies are stuffed with a savory filling of minced lamb or beef, caramelized onions, and aromatic spices like cumin and black pepper, all wrapped in a luscious homemade dough. Brushed with butter and egg for a glossy finish and sprinkled with nutty sesame seeds, Samsa bakes to crispy perfection in just 30 minutes. Ideal as an appetizer, snack, or main course, this recipe is a showstopper that combines simplicity with irresistible depth of flavor. Serve these delightful pastries piping hot with your favorite dipping sauce for an authentic taste of the Silk Road.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water while mixing, until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, finely chop the onions and mix them with minced meat in a separate bowl.
Add black pepper, cumin seeds, and a pinch of salt to the meat mixture. Combine well and set aside.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
Divide the dough into equal-sized balls, approximately 12. Roll each ball into a thin circle (about 15cm in diameter).
Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of each circle.
Fold the edges over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pinching the edges to seal completely.
Melt the butter and lightly brush over the tops of the samsa.
Beat the egg and use it to brush over the samsa tops, then sprinkle sesame seeds.
Place the samsa on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Calories |
4005 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 190.3 g | 244% | |
| Saturated Fat | 75.8 g | 379% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 23.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 664 mg | 221% | |
| Sodium | 3108 mg | 135% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 417.2 g | 152% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.6 g | 74% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.8 g | ||
| Protein | 151.1 g | 302% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 281 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 37.4 mg | 208% | |
| Potassium | 2391 mg | 51% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.