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Appetizers

Sambos

(0)
30 minutes
Prep
20 minutes
Cook
8
Servings

Ingredients

  • 16 Spring roll or samosa wrappers
  • 225g (1/2 lb) Ground beef
  • 1 Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
  • 30ml (2 tbsp) Vegetable oil, plus more for frying
  • 15ml (1 tbsp) Water
  • 15ml (1 tbsp) Flour paste (flour mixed with water, for sealing)

Method

  1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet and cook the onion and garlic until soft.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned.
  3. Stir in the curry powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for 2 more minutes. Cool the filling completely.
  4. Cut the wrappers into strips and place a spoonful of filling at one end.
  5. Fold into a triangle shape, sealing the final edge with flour paste.
  6. Heat oil for frying in a deep pot to 175°C (350°F).
  7. Fry the sambos in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crisp.
  8. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with sakay chili sauce.

Introduction: Sambos are Madagascar's take on the samosa, brought by South Asian traders and fully adopted as a favorite Malagasy snack and party appetizer.

Cultural Background: They appear at celebrations, street stalls, and family gatherings, almost always served with a side of fiery sakay sauce.

Tips: Seal the edges firmly with flour paste so the filling does not leak out during frying.

Variations: A vegetarian filling of spiced potatoes and peas is common, as is a chicken filling.

Storage: Store cooled sambos in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 175°C (350°F) for 5 to 8 minutes to keep them crisp.

Nutrition: Approx. 190 kcal, 8g protein, 17g carbohydrates, 10g fat per serving (2 pieces).

FAQs:

Q: Can sambos be baked instead of fried?

A: Yes, brush with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway, though the texture will be less crisp.