Recipe Samosas

Samosa, a popular Indian appetizer, is a delectable savoury pastry that tantalizes taste buds with its crispy exterior and flavorful fillings. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, samosas have transcended borders to become a beloved snack worldwide. In this article, we'll explore the traditional recipe for making samosas, along with variations, serving suggestions, tips, and even nutritional information.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Water, as needed

For the Filling:

• 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 cup green peas, boiled
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chillies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and oil.
   • Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:

   • Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
   • Add chopped onions, green chillies, and grated ginger. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
   • Add mashed potatoes, boiled peas, turmeric powder, crushed coriander seeds, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

3. Assemble the Samosas:

   • Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin oval or circular shape.
   • Cut each rolled dough into half to form semi-circles.
   • Take one semi-circle and fold it into a cone, sealing the edges with water.
   • Fill the cone with the potato filling and seal the open edge firmly.

4. Frying:

   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
   • Carefully slide in the prepared samosas and fry until they turn golden brown and crisp.
   • Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot samosas with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup.
• Pair them with a cup of hot masala chai for a perfect snack.

Tips:

1. Ensure the dough is neither too soft nor too stiff for the perfect crispy texture.
2. Seal the samosas tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
3. Fry samosas on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

Variations:

• Meat Samosas: Add minced meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) to the filling for a non-vegetarian version.
• Cheese Samosas: Incorporate cheese into the filling mixture for a gooey twist.
• Vegetable Samosas: Experiment with different vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or spinach for diverse flavours.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories per serving (1 samosa): Approximately 150-200 calories (may vary based on size and filling).

Conclusion:

Samosas are not just a snack; they're a culinary journey that brings together flavours, textures, and traditions. Whether enjoyed as a street food delight or homemade treat, samosas never fail to delight the palate. With this recipe, you can embark on your samosa-making adventure, exploring endless possibilities and creating memorable culinary experiences.