Go Back

Crispy Sambusa

Golden, crispy sambusas filled with spiced meat and herbs — a savory snack perfect for gatherings and everyday cravings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: African, Middle Eastern
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 0.75 cup warm water
Filling
  • 1 lb ground meat or lentils
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 0.5 tsp turmeric
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder optional
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
Frying Oil
  • vegetable oil for deep frying

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling Pin
  • Deep fryer or deep pot
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt for the dough.
  2. Add oil and mix until crumbly.
  3. Slowly add warm water, forming a smooth dough.
  4. Knead for 5–7 minutes and let rest.
  5. Heat oil in a skillet and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger.
  6. Add ground meat or lentils and cook until done.
  7. Stir in spices and fresh cilantro, then cool.
  8. Divide dough, roll, and cut into semi‑circles.
  9. Form cones, fill with filling, and seal into triangles.
  10. Heat frying oil to 350°F and fry sambusas until golden.
  11. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Notes

Serve with chutney or yogurt dip for best flavor.