Sambusaks (Sumboosaks) with Chickpeas

These are traditional Purim sambusaks from Baghdad, with a chickpea filling and a whole egg in each. Adding the egg is optional, so please omit that part if you’d prefer to make these without eggs.

Step: 1

Mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and water together in a bowl to form a dough; cover and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Divide the dough into 11 portions, and form into balls. Roll each dough ball out on a floured surface to a 5-inch circle.

Step: 2

Cook the onion in 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until browned, about 10 minutes; stir in the garbanzo beans, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.

Step: 3

Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep-sided skillet to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step: 4

Break an egg into a greased custard cup, cover with a square of waxed paper, and cook in a microwave oven on High setting for 40 seconds. Place about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the garbanzo bean filling onto a dough circle, place the slightly cooked egg onto the filling, and gently fold the dough into a half-moon shape. Fold the dough edge over and crimp with a fork to seal in the filling.

Step: 5

Deep fry the sambusaks, one or two at a time, in the hot oil until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Remove with a wire strainer, and drain on paper towels.

Per Serving: 253 calories; protein 9.7g; carbohydrates 23g; fat 13.7g; cholesterol 186mg; sodium 313mg.