Samosa
Samosa or Sambusa is one of the traditional dishes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is known across the Kingdom, especially in the provinces of Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. It is one of the dishes commonly associated with the Iftar table during the month of Ramadan.
History of samosa in Saudi Arabia
The samosa was first known in the cities of Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah Provinces, especially in their urban areas, due to the presence of large numbers of immigrants from Islamic countries who settled there and brought many of the foods prevalent in their communities of origin.
Samosa and empanadas are similar in taste and shape. However, their origins go back to two different continents. Samosa has become popular within Saudi society and has become part of the Ramadan table, where tables are rarely observed without this dish. The term 'Sambusa' derives from its resemblance to the shape of the edge of a Sanbuk, a wooden sailboat.
Samosa preparation method
Samosa consists of a dough prepared from weighed ingredients, including water, salt, and oil, the amounts of which vary according to the method followed for preparation. The dough is rolled out and then cut into small pieces, in the cavity of each of which a quantity of cooked minced meat is placed along with some light spices, upon noting that some mix the minced meat with minced boiled eggs or some leafy vegetables, and roasted pine nuts.
The edges of the dough are then collected and formed into a semi-circle or triangle, placed in a tray, sprinkled with ghee, and placed in the oven or fried in a casserole filled with oil or ghee until it is cooked.
Samosa types
The preparation of samosa varies according to the place where it is made, the different tastes of eaters, and the varied experiences of chefs. Some prefer it to take a semicircular or triangular shape, while others make braided samosa featuring braided edges that look similar to braided hair. As for the ingredients used in the filling, some use meat and some light spices only, while others prepare it with salty cheese only, use vegetables, or mix vegetables with minced chicken.