Chilled Somsa

Chilled Somsa is a delightful variation of the traditional Uzbek Somsa, a pastry delicacy that is often enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. In this unique version, we explore how Somsa can be served chilled, offering a refreshing twist to this beloved comfort food. Originating from Uzbekistan, Somsa has been a staple in Central Asian cuisine for centuries, often filled with an array of ingredients ranging from meat to vegetables, all wrapped in a flaky, golden pastry.

Ingredients

• Flour - 500g
• Water - 250ml
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Onion - 2 large, finely chopped
• Ground Beef - 500g
• Ground Lamb - 250g
• Black Pepper - 1 tsp
• Cumin - 1 tsp
• Coriander - 1 tsp
• Butter - 100g, melted
• Egg - 1, beaten

Preparation

Begin by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the water while mixing with your hands until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the onion, ground beef, and ground lamb. Season with black pepper, cumin, and coriander. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Assembly

Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) while you shape the Somsas. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 2 mm thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles approximately 10 cm in diameter. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal. Brush each Somsa with the beaten egg for a golden crust.

Cooking

Arrange the Somsas on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Be sure to set a cooking timer to avoid overcooking.

Chilling and Serving

Once the Somsas are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. Serve the chilled Somsas as an appetizer or alongside a tangy yogurt dip.

The unique chilled texture provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory filling, making Chilled Somsa a perfect dish for a warm day. Whether enjoyed as part of a mezze platter or on their own, these chilled treats are sure to impress.