Injera-Crusted Lentil Sambusas with Spiced Yogurt Dip

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crispy triangular lentil-filled sambusas made with injera batter and served with a cooling cumin-spiced yogurt sauce. This african-inspired vegetarian ready in about 80 minutes blends brown lentils, rinsed, water, medium yellow onion, finely chopped into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 60 min Cook: 20 min Serves 6 African cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup brown lentils and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain excess water.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until golden. Add 1 minced garlic clove and 1 tbsp berbere spice mix, cooking for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Mix the cooked lentils into the spiced onion mixture. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and cook for 3 minutes to combine flavors. Let cool slightly.
  4. Step 4: Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F for frying.
  5. Step 5: Using 1/3 cup of injera batter, pour a round, thin circle onto a hot non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until set but still pliable. Remove and let cool slightly.
  6. Step 6: Place 2 tbsp lentil filling on one edge of the injera circle and fold into a triangle shape, sealing edges by pressing gently.
  7. Step 7: Fry each sambusa in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  8. Step 8: For the dip, mix 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro in a bowl.
  9. Step 9: Serve the injera-crusted lentil sambusas warm with the spiced yogurt dip.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Injera-Crusted Lentil Sambusas with Spiced Yogurt Dip take to make?

Total time is about 80 minutes (60 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Injera-Crusted Lentil Sambusas with Spiced Yogurt Dip?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Injera-Crusted Lentil Sambusas with Spiced Yogurt Dip?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Injera-Crusted Lentil Sambusas with Spiced Yogurt Dip for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Injera-Crusted Lentil Sambusas with Spiced Yogurt Dip?

African vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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