Entree: Kazakhstan – Northern Kazakhstan – Самса ➤ Samsa (Savory baked triangular pastry filled with spiced meat and onions)

Serving Size: 8

Approximate Time

Prep 35 min

Cook 35 min

Total 1 hr 10 min

Ingredients

- 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (6 g) salt
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm water
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted (for laminating dough)
- 1 lb (454 g) ground lamb
- 1 large onion, finely chopped, approx. 6 oz (170 g)
- 1 tsp (2 g) ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) ground black pepper
- 1 tsp (6 g) salt, or to taste
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) beef or lamb broth, or water
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil or rendered lamb fat for filling
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp (9 g) sesame seeds, optional

Instructions

1. Combine flour and 1 tsp salt in a large bowl. Gradually add warm water and 2 tbsp oil, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead 5–7 minutes until smooth. Cover and rest 30 minutes.
2. Divide dough into 8 equal balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle about 8 inches (20 cm) diameter. Brush lightly with melted butter, fold or roll to create a layered packet, then flatten gently and roll again into a 6–7 inch (15–18 cm) circle.
3. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add ground lamb, breaking up with a spoon, and cook until just browned. Stir in cumin, black pepper, and 1 tsp salt. Pour in broth or water and cook 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced. Remove from heat and let cool to warm.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
5. Place about 3 tbsp (45 ml) of filling near the edge of each rolled circle, fold into a triangular pocket by folding the dough over the filling and sealing edges firmly. Repeat for all pieces.
6. Arrange samsa on the baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
7. Bake 20–25 minutes until deep golden and crisp. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.