Vegetarian Samosas Recipe

Introduction

Samosas are a beloved snack, originating from the Indian subcontinent. These delectable pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients, traditionally potatoes and spices, and are crispy on the outside. The vegetarian version of samosas provides a delightful alternative for those looking to enjoy this classic treat without meat. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a meal, vegetarian samosas are not only delicious but also versatile. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through a step-by-step recipe that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

To make approximately 12 vegetarian samosas, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Water (as needed)
• For the Filling:
  • 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
  • ½ teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon coriander powder
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil (for frying the filling)

Equipment

For this recipe, you will need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Parchment paper (for rolling out dough)
• Paper towels (for draining excess oil)

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil or ghee and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add water, a little at a time, kneading until you form a smooth and firm dough.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and sauté until they crackle.
2. Add the chopped onions and green chilies, cooking until the onions turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the boiled and mashed potatoes along with green peas, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Finish with the lemon juice, mix thoroughly, and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Shape the Samosas

1. Divide the rested dough into equal portions (about 6-8). Roll each portion into a ball.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into a thin oval shape (about 6 inches in diameter).
3. Cut the oval in half to form two semi-circles. Take one semi-circle and fold it into a cone shape, sealing the edges with a little water.
4. Fill the cone with the prepared potato filling, leaving some space at the top. Seal the open edge of the cone by pressing firmly. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 4: Fry the Samosas

1. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of dough dropped into it sizzles and rises to the surface.
2. Carefully slide in a few samosas at a time, avoiding overcrowding. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Using a slotted spoon, remove the samosas and drain them on paper towels.

Variations

While the classic potato and pea filling is popular, you can experiment with various ingredients to create different flavors. Here are a few delicious variations:

• Paneer Samosas: Substitute the potato with crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and add spices for an extra flavor kick.
• Spiced Lentil Samosas: Use cooked lentils as a filling combined with spices like cumin and coriander for a protein-rich option.
• Mixed Vegetable Samosas: Blend a variety of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and corn into the potato filling for added color and texture.
• Cheese Samosas: Combine cheese with herbs and spices for a cheesy delight that can satisfy savory cravings.

Storage

To maintain their freshness and crispiness, store leftover samosas properly:

• Refrigeration: Allow the samosas to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked or cooked samosas. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen samosas in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian samosas can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Serve them with mint chutney and tamari sauce for dipping, as these add refreshing and tangy flavors.
• For an extra touch, serve samosas with yogurt sauce or raita to balance the spices.
• Pair with a fresh salad or spiced tea (chai) for a delightful meal experience.
• Consider presenting samosas as part of a larger spread at gatherings, alongside other appetizers like vegetable pakoras and pav bhaji.

Conclusion

Vegetarian samosas are not just a favorite snack in India; they have gained global popularity due to their impressive taste and versatility. This recipe provides all the necessary steps to create these savory pastries at home, making them a perfect addition to any meal or celebration. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack with friends or as part of a festive feast, samosas are sure to please. So gather your ingredients, follow this guide, and enjoy your homemade vegetarian samosas!

This recipe provides all the essential details for making vegetarian samosas, appealing to a wide range of audiences. It is structured for clarity and ease of reading, ensuring that both novice and experienced cooks can follow along.