Sambusa (Beef and Lentil Pastries)

Sambusa came to Ethiopia centuries ago along trade routes from the Middle East and South Asia, and it has long since become a beloved local icon. These crispy fried triangles appear at street stalls, on Iftar tables during Ramadan, and at nearly every celebration, filled with spiced beef, lentils, or a mix of both. On fasting days, lentil-only sambusa takes the same golden shape and is just as loved. Making them at home fills the kitchen with the warm scent of berbere and promises a tray of golden crunch.

Golden triangles worth burning your fingers for

The wrapper shatters with a satisfying crackle, giving way to a savory, lightly spiced filling that stays juicy and fragrant. Berbere brings a gentle warmth, while the onion and jalapeño keep every bite bright. Folded into tidy triangles and fried until deep gold, they are perfect for scooping up awaze or a cool yogurt dip, and they disappear alarmingly fast at any table, so a double batch is never a mistake.

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