How to Make Authentic and Easy Indian Samosas: A Comprehensive Guide

Delight your taste buds with this easy Indian samosas recipe, a beloved snack that originates from the Indian subcontinent. Known for their crispy exterior and rich, flavorful filling, samosas are often enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even a meal. These delectable pastries can be filled with a variety of ingredients, ranging from spiced potatoes and peas to lentils and even meat, offering endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer them vegan or packed with traditional ingredients, making homemade Indian samosas from scratch will become a favorite cooking project that brings the vibrant flavors of India right to your kitchen. Join us as we guide you through every step of crafting these delightful treats!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings (approximately 8 samosas)

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
Water, as needed (approximately 1/2 cup)

For the Filling:

2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust based on heat preference)
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Salt, to taste
2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Oil, for frying

Ingredient Swaps:

For a vegan option, substitute ghee with coconut oil.
Substitute boiled potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
Use almond milk or oat milk instead of water for the dough for a lactose-free version.

Equipment List

Mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Knife or dough cutter
Shallow frying pan or deep fryer
Slotted spoon
Paper towels (for draining excess oil)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and mix until it resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
Make the Filling: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Mix in the mashed potatoes and peas, followed by turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring well to combine the flavors. Remove from heat and fold in the fresh coriander leaves. Allow the filling to cool.
Shape the Samosas: After the dough has rested, divide it into equal portions (approximately 8 balls). Roll out each ball into a thin oval shape (about 6 inches long). Cut the oval in half to create two semi-circles.
Take one semi-circle and fold it into a cone shape, sealing the edges with a little water. Ensure there are no gaps.
Fill the cone with about 2 tablespoons of the potato filling, leaving enough space at the top to seal. Fold the open edge over the filling and seal thoroughly, ensuring no filling escapes. Repeat this process for the remaining dough and filling.
Fry the Samosas: In a deep frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, gently add the samosas in batches. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the samosas with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.

Special Notes

To store leftover samosas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to regain their crispiness. If the filling seems too dry, you can add a little water while cooking to maintain the desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

For a low-carb version, consider using cauliflower rice instead of potatoes for the filling.
Change up the filling by adding cooked lentils or diced paneer for a protein boost.
Create a sweet version by filling samosas with a mixture of flavored chopped apples and cinnamon.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Estimated values per serving of samosas (2 pieces):
Calories: 250
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g

Engaging Visual Details

When preparing your samosas, envision the beautiful golden-brown hue they develop during frying. As they cook, the intoxicating aroma of spices fills your kitchen, drawing everyone near. After frying, the crisp texture on the outside contrasts delightfully with the soft and savory filling inside. Pictures capturing the assembly of the samosas, the frying stage, and the final plated dish will be highly beneficial to guide novice cooks visually.

Conclusion

Your homemade Indian samosas are finally ready! These golden delights are perfect companions for a cup of tea or as a centerpiece for your next gathering. We encourage you to try out this homemade Indian samosas from scratch recipe and relish the superior taste compared to store-bought versions. Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish to showcase your culinary creations. Happy cooking!