sambusa

Sambusa is a popular street food and snack originating from South Asia, particularly in countries like Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is a deep-fried pastry filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, and sometimes meat or vegetables. The pastry itself is typically made from a thin, crispy dough, often shaped into a half-moon or crescent form, though variations exist across different regions.

The preparation of sambusa involves rolling out the dough thinly and cutting it into circular or crescent shapes before frying until golden brown. The filling is usually a combination of finely chopped onions, potatoes, spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili, along with a binding agent such as gram flour or breadcrumbs. Some versions include minced meat like chicken or lamb, while others are vegetarian. The mixture is then stuffed into the pastry and deep-fried again to achieve a crispy exterior.

Sambusa is commonly enjoyed as a quick snack, often sold by street vendors. It has a satisfying crunch and a balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among many. Variations of sambusa can be found in different cultures, with some incorporating local ingredients or unique fillings. For example, in Sri Lanka, it is often called *sambol* or *sambosa*, while in India, it may be referred to as *samosas* in some regions, though the two are distinct in texture and preparation.