Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or substitute with 1 cup cooked green lentils for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) curry powder (mild or medium, depending on preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro (coriander)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable Oil (for frying)
  • Or Baking paper (for baking)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pastry: Combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Make the Filling: Heat oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add ground beef (or lentils) and cook until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Spice it Up: Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute to release the aromas.
  4. Simmer the Filling: Add beef broth, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the filling is thickened. Let cool completely.
  5. Assemble the Mamosas: Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a pastry cutter or knife (about 3-inch diameter).
  6. Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  7. Egg Wash (if baking): Brush the mamosas with beaten egg wash for a golden-brown crust.
  8. Bake/Fry: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Alternatively, deep-fry in hot oil until golden brown.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven or oil and drain on a wire rack. Serve warm.