Middle Eastern > Afghan > Savory Pastries

Rushan Samsa Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Slowly add warm water and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

2. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent.

3. Add ground beef or lamb to the skillet and cook until browned. Add cumin, coriander, black pepper, and salt to taste. Remove from heat and let cool.

4. Preheat oven to 375°F.

5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle.

6. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to create a triangle shape. Pinch the edges together to seal.

7. Place the samsas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with vegetable oil.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.


- Time:
Preparation time: 40 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe makes 8 samsas.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 18g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef or lamb can be substituted with ground chicken or turkey.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.

Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots to the meat mixture for a vegetable samsa.
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to the meat mixture for added flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is rolled thin enough to create a crispy crust.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges of the samsa for a decorative touch.
- Serve with a side of yogurt or sour cream for dipping.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover samsas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place samsas on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve samsas on a platter with a sprig of fresh herbs for garnish.

Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of yogurt or sour cream for dipping.

Suggested side dishes:
- Cucumber and tomato salad
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more warm water.
- If the samsas are not sealing properly, brush the edges with a little water before pinching together.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the meat mixture is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Rushan Samsa is a traditional dish from Tajikistan.

Flavor profiles:
- The samsas have a crispy crust and a savory filling with hints of cumin and coriander.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve samsas as an appetizer or as a main dish with a side salad.

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Region: Uzbek

Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Herbal, Aromatic