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Lentil Sambusas

Lentil Sambusas are a beloved Ethiopian street snack featuring crisp, golden pastry stuffed with a spiced lentil filling. Traditionally served during festivals, Ramadan, or as a savory everyday treat, they are a staple in Ethiopian and Horn of Africa cuisines. The filling typically relies on lentils and a rich blend of aromatic spices, delivering hearty, satisfying, and delicious flavor in every bite.

Intermediate
1h 10m
6 servings
Lentil Sambusas

Ingredients

  • 250g red lentils
  • 200g all-purpose flour
  • 50g semolina
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (50g)
  • •••See the full ingredient list and shop it in the app.

Method

  1. 1Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under running water.
  2. 2In a saucepan, combine lentils and 500ml water with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the lentils are soft and mushy, about 20 minutes.
  3. 3While the lentils cook, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a pan. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  4. 4Add ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, remaining salt, and black pepper to the onion mixture. Stir and cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
  5. ••• Cook along hands-free with timers and step-by-step guidance in the app.