Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsTrevaSambusa Recipe

Sambusa Recipe

Inspired by Treva
Time1h 15m
Serves6

Crispy pastry filled with spiced lentils and herbs.

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Ingredients

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Pastry Dough

Method

Pastry Dough

  1. 1

    Make the Dough

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.

Filling

  1. 2

    Prepare the Lentils

    Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a saucepan, add lentils and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.

  2. 3

    Cook the Filling

    In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the cooked lentils, cilantro, and lemon juice. Mix well and remove from heat. Allow to cool.

Assembly and Frying

  1. 4

    Assemble the Sambusa

    Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle on a floured surface. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the lentil filling on one half of the circle. Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork or pinching with fingers.

  2. 5

    Fry the Sambusa

    In a deep skillet, heat 2 cups of vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully add sambusas in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

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