Many of us love samosas, but have you ever written a poem about how much you love them? No need, there is a love poem dedicated to these fried pockets of joy that’s over a thousand years old. Mas’udi, one of the first Arab historians, recorded an ode to samosas (Sambusak) in his historical work Meadows of Gold written in 947 A.D. The book is actually a great read as it it not only documents Arab history, but includes anecdotes, poetry, and jokes the author saw fit to include in his magnum opus.

Although the large work is classified as historical writing, Mas’udi’s first person accounts make the book approachable for those interested in Islamic Historiography, but who don’t want to get bogged down the dreary listing of second hand historical facts. Check out this salute to India’s most iconic snack, translated into English by Arthur John Arberry in his book Aspects of Islamic Civilization.

…And when the burning flames have dried it quite,

Then, as thou wilt, in pastry wrap it round,

And fasten well the edges, firm and sound;

Or, if it please thee better, take some dough,

Conveniently soft, and rubbed just so,

Then with a rolling-pin let it be spread

And with the nails its edges docketed.

Pour in the frying-pan the choicest oil

And in that liquor let it finely broil…

If you’ve ever pondered the meaning of true love, whomever wrote this amazing poem was head over heels.