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Samsa Recipe with crispy golden pastry and meat filling

Samsa Recipe

This Samsa Recipe makes golden, crispy pastries filled with seasoned beef or lamb, onions, and simple spices. The homemade dough creates a flaky crust, while the juicy meat filling adds rich flavor. It is a simple Uzbek-inspired pastry that works well as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 10 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Central Asian, Uzbek
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Melted butter or oil for layering
  • For the Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef or finely chopped lamb
  • 2-3 medium onions finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • For the Topping
  • 1 egg yolk
  • Sesame seeds as needed

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Dough: Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add warm water and vegetable oil, then knead until a smooth, soft dough forms. Cover and let it rest for about 20 minutes.
  2. Make the Filling: Combine the ground beef or finely chopped lamb with chopped onions, salt, black pepper, cumin, and turmeric. Mix well so the spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Roll the Dough: Divide the dough into small portions and roll each one into a thin circle. Brush with melted butter or oil, then layer the pieces to create a flaky texture.
  4. Shape the Samsa: Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough piece. Fold the edges over the filling and seal firmly to form a triangle or square shape.
  5. Add the Topping: Arrange the samsa on a lined baking tray. Brush the tops with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the samsa for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
  7. Serve: Let the samsa cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with tea, yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce.