Country: Tajikistan Servings: Serves 4

Ingredients

• all-purpose flour – 3 cups / 360 g
• water – 1 cup / 240 ml
• salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
• vegetable oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
• ground lamb – 500 g / 1.1 lbs
• onion – 1 large, finely chopped
• black pepper – 1 tsp / 2 g
• ground cumin – 1 tsp / 2 g

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the water and 1 tbsp of oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pan, heat the remaining oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the ground lamb, black pepper, and cumin, and cook until the meat is browned. Allow the filling to cool.
3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each one into a thin circle.
5. Place a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of each circle. Fold over into a triangle, sealing the edges carefully.
6. Arrange the sambusas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, paired with yogurt or a tangy dipping sauce.

Substitutions

• ground lamb -> ground beef
• vegetable oil -> olive oil

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Add a spice blend such as garam masala to enhance the complexity of the filling.
• Incorporate a resting period in the fridge for the dough for even more tenderness.
• Experiment with a variety of fillings such as adding chopped herbs or small cubes of potatoes.