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Somali Sambusas

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Somali Sambusas are crispy, golden pastries filled with a savory mixture of spiced beef or lamb, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs. Popular throughout Somalia and especially enjoyed during Ramadan, these flavorful triangular pastries make the perfect appetizer, snack, or party food. Easy to prepare and freezer-friendly, Somali Sambusas are a delicious addition to any gathering.

Ingredients

Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef or lamb
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Assembly

  • 20 samosa wrappers
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons water

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  • Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  • Mix in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and salt.
  • Continue cooking until the meat is fully cooked and most of the moisture has evaporated.
  • Stir in the chopped cilantro and remove from the heat.
  • Allow the filling to cool completely.
  • In a small bowl, combine the flour and water to create a thick sealing paste.
  • Fold each samosa wrapper into a cone shape.
  • Fill each cone with 1–2 tablespoons of the meat mixture.
  • Seal the edges with the flour paste, forming a triangle.
  • Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry the sambusas in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  • Serve warm.

Notes

Allow the filling to cool completely before assembling to prevent soggy wrappers.Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.Ground chicken or turkey can be substituted for beef or lamb.For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with seasoned lentils.Add diced carrots, peas, cabbage, or green chilies for additional flavor and texture.Sambusas can be baked at 400°F (200°C) or air fried for a lighter option.Freeze assembled uncooked sambusas for up to 3 months.Serve with garlic sauce, yogurt sauce, chutney, or spicy chili dip.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/somali-sambusas/