Somali Spiced Sambusa Cakes

Ingredients

The Somali Spiced Sambusa Cakes differ from the original Welsh Cake in several ways. Firstly, the spices used in the Somali version are distinctively Somali, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which add a unique flavor profile. Additionally, the filling of ground beef or lamb, onions, garlic, and cilantro gives the cakes a savory twist. Lastly, the cooking method is adapted to Somali cuisine, with the cakes being cooked on a griddle instead of being baked. We alse have the original recipe for Welsh Cake, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 egg 1 egg
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef or lamb 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Vegetable oil, for cooking Vegetable oil, for cooking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 6g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a minute until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling. In a skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the chopped cilantro and remove from heat. Allow the filling to cool.
6. 6.
   Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a disc.
7. 7.
   Spoon a small amount of the cooled filling onto the center of each dough disc. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal.
8. 8.
   Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil in a griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Cook the sambusa cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
9. 9.
   Remove the cakes from the griddle and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as a snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef or lamb — Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly to avoid any food safety risks.
• Cumin, coriander, and turmeric — Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor. Toasting the whole spices before grinding them can enhance their aroma.
• Fresh cilantro — Rinse the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry before chopping to remove any dirt or impurities.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the meat mixture.
• Serve the Spiced Sambusa Cakes with a side of tangy tamarind chutney or spicy green chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
• You can make the dough and filling ahead of time and assemble the cakes just before cooking to save time.
• Experiment with different fillings such as spiced potatoes, lentils, or vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Leftover sambusa cakes can be refrigerated and reheated in a toaster oven or microwave for a quick snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Somali Spiced Sambusa Cakes warm as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with chutneys or sauces for dipping.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Spiced Sambusa Cakes on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them alongside small bowls of chutney or sauce for a visually appealing and inviting presentation.