Zambian Samoosas
Zambian Samoosas Recipe - Spicy and Delicious Snack from Zambia
Introduction
Zambian Samoosas are a popular snack in Zambia, typically enjoyed as a delicious appetizer or snack. These triangular-shaped pastries are filled with a savory minced meat mixture and fried to crispy perfection. They are perfect for serving at parties or as a tasty treat for yourself.
History
Samoosas are believed to have originated in the Middle East and were brought to Africa by traders. Over time, they have become a popular snack in many African countries, including Zambia. The Zambian version of samoosas typically features a spiced minced meat filling and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Ingredients
- 300 g minced meat
- spices for the minced meat
- 250 g wheat flour
- 1 tbsp oil
- salt to taste
- 175 ml water
How to prepare
- Fry the minced meat with the spices and set it aside.
- Combine the wheat flour, oil, water, and salt to taste until a nice dough forms.
- Divide the dough into small balls, approximately 50 g each (about 10 balls).
- Roll out each ball into a small pancake, about 5 cm in diameter.
- Stack two pancakes together with a little bit of oil and flour in between, and roll them out until they reach a diameter of 20 to 25 cm.
- Place both sides of the pancakes in a hot pan without oil for 15 seconds.
- Separate the two pancakes and place them upside down together again.
- Cut the pancakes in half twice, resulting in 8 triangular-shaped samosas.
- Mix 125 ml of water with 5 tbsp of wheat flour and set it aside.
- Fold the pancakes twice to create a triangular shape, leaving the round side open to fill with the previously cooked minced meat.
- Seal the round side of the pancakes using the mixture of 125 ml water and 5 tbsp of wheat flour as glue.
- At this stage, you can either freeze the samosas for later use or fry them in hot oil for approximately 10 minutes until they turn golden brown.
Variations
- You can make vegetarian samoosas by replacing the minced meat with a mixture of vegetables such as potatoes, peas, and carrots.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to seal the edges of the samoosas properly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
- You can customize the filling by adding vegetables or different spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Fry the samoosas in hot oil to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Zambian Samoosas can be served with a side of chutney or hot sauce for dipping.
Cooking Techniques
Frying is the traditional cooking technique for Zambian Samoosas, but you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier option.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use ground beef, chicken, or lamb instead of minced meat in the filling.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the samoosas ahead of time and freeze them before frying. Simply fry them when ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Zambian Samoosas on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs for an attractive presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Zambian Samoosas pair well with a refreshing drink such as a cold beer or a fruity cocktail.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover samoosas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Zambian Samoosas contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Zambian Samoosas contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Zambian Samoosas contains approximately 10g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Zambian Samoosas contains approximately 15g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Zambian Samoosas are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
Zambian Samoosas contain wheat flour and may not be suitable for individuals with gluten allergies.
Summary
Zambian Samoosas are a delicious snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a great option for a quick and tasty treat.
Summary
Zambian Samoosas are a delicious and flavorful snack that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, these triangular pastries are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the taste of Zambia with this easy and tasty recipe!
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a hot summer day in Zambia, and I was visiting a friend who lived in a small village just outside of Lusaka. As we sat in her kitchen, sipping on homemade ginger beer, she began to tell me about a traditional Zambian dish called Samoosas.
My friend explained that Samoosas were a popular street food in Zambia, filled with a mixture of spiced meat and vegetables, then fried until crispy. She told me that each family had their own secret recipe, passed down through generations. Intrigued, I asked if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed.
As she began to gather the ingredients, she told me the story of how she had learned to make Samoosas from her grandmother, who had learned from her own mother. The recipe had been passed down through the women in her family for centuries, each generation adding their own twist to make it uniquely their own.
I watched as she skillfully folded the thin pastry dough around the fragrant filling, creating perfectly shaped triangles that would soon be fried to golden perfection. The aroma of the spices filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.
Finally, the Samoosas were ready. Crispy and golden brown, they looked like little parcels of heaven. My friend handed me one, urging me to take a bite. As I did, the flavors exploded in my mouth - savory and spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the vegetables. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
I knew that I had to learn how to make these delicious Samoosas myself. My friend graciously agreed to teach me, and over the next few days, we spent hours in the kitchen together, perfecting the recipe. I learned how to mix the spices just right, how to fold the dough to create the perfect shape, and most importantly, how to fry them to crispy perfection.
As I made my first batch of Samoosas on my own, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I knew that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through generations, and that one day, I would pass it on to my own grandchildren.
Since that day in Zambia, I have made Samoosas countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of this traditional Zambian dish far and wide.
Every time I make Samoosas, I am transported back to that hot summer day in Zambia, sitting in my friend's kitchen, learning the secrets of a recipe that has brought so much joy and flavor into my life. And for that, I am forever grateful.