Samoon Tsunami

Background & History of Samoon Tsunami

Samoon Tsunami is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich, flavorful texture of traditional samoon bread with a hearty, layered medley of ingredients that bring a wave of taste with every bite. Originating in the Middle East, samoon has been a staple bread enjoyed for its unique diamond shape and slightly chewy texture. Over the years, innovative cooks have developed variations, like the Samoon Tsunami, to bring international influences and a tsunami of flavors. The result is a comforting yet thrilling dish perfect for gatherings or as a standout addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Samoon Tsunami

• Samoon - 4 loaves
• Ground beef - 500 grams
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Coriander - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cayenne pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cilantro - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Green bell pepper - 1, chopped
• Red bell pepper - 1, chopped
• Cheese (such as feta or shredded mozzarella) - 1 cup
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Butter - for greasing
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Preparation Steps

Before you begin, ensure you have the freshest ingredients. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and set up a convenient workspace to streamline the preparation processes.

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn golden and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned.

Mix in the green bell pepper and red bell pepper, allowing them to soften slightly. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, and coriander. Season with cayenne, salt, and black pepper according to your taste.

Step 2: Assembling the Samoon Tsunami

Carefully slice the samoon loaves lengthwise. Hollow out each half slightly to create a cavity for the filling. Be cautious not to break through the bottom or sides.

Grease a baking dish with butter. Fill each samoon half with the beef mixture, generously adding shredded cheese on top. Replace the top half of the samoon, pressing lightly to secure.

Step 3: Baking

Place the stuffed samoon loaves into the prepared baking dish. If possible, fit them snugly to prevent them from tipping over.

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the samoon are slightly crispy. Use a cooking timer for better accuracy.

How to Enjoy Samoon Tsunami

Remove the Samoon Tsunami from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Cut each bread into slices, approximately two inches wide. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a burst of freshness.

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or a cool tzatziki sauce if you prefer. It's perfect for sharing as an appetizer or as a main course, depending on your preference. Enjoy the layers of the savory filling with the crisp-soft crunch of the samoon, offering a true wave of flavors with each bite.