As a globally significant event, every detail of the SCO Summit garners attention, including what the world leaders dine on at the banquet. Among the culinary highlights of the 2019 Bishkek banquet were Kyrgyzstan's samsas, a beloved baked dish from one of the member countries.
Kyrgyz samsas are typically filled with marinated beef and lamb mixed with onions, all encased in a crispy exterior. Often enjoyed as popular street food in Central Asia, samsas are also a favorite in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Similar to the preparation of naan, the buns are baked in a tandoor. Fresh out of the oven, they offer an aromatic and flavorful bite, with a crispy bottom and a tender, flaky top – truly delectable.