Sha Phaley

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour 250g
• Water 100ml
• Ground yak meat (or beef) 300g
• Cabbage 150g, finely shredded and squeezed dry
• Onion 1, finely diced
• Ginger 10g, minced
• Garlic 3 cloves, minced
• Soy sauce 10ml
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for deep frying
• Chili garlic sauce for dipping

Cooking Steps

1. 1. Make the dough: Mix flour and water and knead until smooth. Rest for 20 minutes.
2. 2. Mix the stuffing: Mix the minced meat, cabbage, onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce and salt. Mix well.
3. 3. Divide dough into balls. Roll each into an oval about 10cm long.
4. 4. Place filling on half of each oval. Fold the other half over and press the edges to seal, forming a half-moon shape.
5. 5. Heat the oil in a deep pan to 170C (340F). Fry the bagels in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6. Drain with paper towels. Serve hot with chili garlic sauce.

Cultural Tips

Shafali is often served during Tibetan New Year (Losa) and at family gatherings. The half-moon shape is said to symbolize prosperity. In Lhasa, the best Shafali vendors have a loyal following who line up every day to buy fresh fried buns.