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EthiopianAuthentic Cuisine

Sweet Sambusa

Serves 4 to 6 Pastry vegetarian, Breads & Pastry

Sweet Sambusa

Sweet Sambusa is a beloved treat found in the bustling bakeries of Addis Ababa. Its inviting aroma fills the air, drawing people in for a comforting bite. A staple in everyday Ethiopian cooking, this dessert is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of the city’s vibrant culinary landscape in every flaky pastry.

The texture of Sweet Sambusa is a delightful contrast between its crisp exterior and the soft, sweet filling inside. The blend of chopped dates and honey infuses each bite with a rich, natural sweetness, making it a perfect indulgence any time of the day. This home version stays true to its roots, keeping the flavors simple but generous.

Ingredients

  • 12sambusa wrappers or filo sheets
  • 1 cupchopped dates or sweet filling
  • for fryingoil
  • 2 tbsphoney — for finishing

Method

  1. Begin by preparing your sweet filling. If using chopped dates, ensure they are finely chopped to allow for even distribution inside the sambusa. Mix the dates with 2 tablespoons of honey in a small bowl until the dates are well-coated and slightly sticky. This will help the filling hold together inside the wrappers.
  2. Lay out your sambusa wrappers or filo sheets on a clean, dry surface. If using filo sheets, you may need to cut them into smaller squares, approximately 6 inches by 6 inches, to make them easier to handle. Keep the sheets you are not currently using covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Take one wrapper and place about a tablespoon of the sweet filling near one corner. Fold the corner over the filling to form a triangle, then continue folding in a triangular pattern, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed. Seal the final edge with a dab of water to prevent it from opening during cooking.
  4. In a deep frying pan or pot, pour enough oil to submerge the sambusas. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of wrapper into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
  5. Carefully place a few sambusas into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally for even cooking. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. The sambusas are ready when they have a deep golden color and a crisp texture.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sambusas from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly, as this will help the filling set and make them easier to handle.
  7. Once the sambusas have cooled for a few minutes, arrange them on a serving platter. Serve them warm, allowing the honey and date filling to shine with its sweet aroma and flavor. Enjoy your sweet sambusas as a delightful treat or dessert.
Cover of Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Ethiopian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.