Samosas are one of the most beloved snacks in Indian cuisine. These crispy, golden-brown pastries filled with a variety of delicious fillings have transcended borders and become a global favorite. Whether you’re a fan of the classic potato and pea filling or eager to try something more adventurous, this guide will provide you with an array of samosa recipes to suit every palate.

Classic Potato and Pea Samosa

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup oil or ghee
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Water (as needed)

For the filling:

• 3 large potatoes (boiled and mashed)
• 1 cup green peas (boiled)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 green chilies (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander (chopped)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add oil and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
   • Gradually add water and knead into a firm dough. Cover and set aside for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin and mustard seeds. When they start to splutter, add onions and green chilies. Sauté until onions are golden brown.
   • Add peas and mashed potatoes. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
   • Add all the spices (garam masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder) and salt. Cook for another 5 minutes.
   • Stir in chopped coriander and remove from heat. Let it cool.
3. Assemble the Samosas:
   • Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin oval shape. Cut each oval in half to form two semi-circles.
   • Take one semi-circle and form a cone shape, sealing the edge with a little water.
   • Fill the cone with the potato and pea mixture, then seal the top edge with water.
4. Fry the Samosas:
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the samosas on medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve:
   • Enjoy hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce.

Innovative Variations

Cheese and Corn Samosa

Ingredients:

• 2 cups corn kernels (boiled)
• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 green chilies (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp chili flakes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander (chopped)

Instructions:

• Follow the same dough preparation steps as the classic recipe.
• For the filling, heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add onions and green chilies. Sauté until onions are golden brown.
• Add boiled corn, chili flakes, oregano, and salt. Cook for a few minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• Mix in the grated cheese and chopped coriander.
• Assemble and fry the samosas as per the classic recipe instructions.

Lentil and Spinach Samosa

Ingredients:

• 1 cup split yellow lentils (moong dal) (cooked and mashed)
• 1 cup spinach (blanched and chopped)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 green chilies (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander (chopped)

Instructions:

• Follow the same dough preparation steps as the classic recipe.
• For the filling, heat oil in a pan and add cumin and mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add onions and green chilies. Sauté until onions are golden brown.
• Add blanched spinach and mashed lentils. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
• Add turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for another 5 minutes.
• Stir in chopped coriander and remove from heat. Let it cool.
• Assemble and fry the samosas as per the classic recipe instructions.

Baking Alternative

For a healthier version, you can bake your samosas instead of frying them.

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the assembled samosas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Brush the samosas with a little oil to help them brown.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, turning halfway through the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Samosas are best enjoyed hot with a variety of dipping sauces. Traditional accompaniments include mint chutney, tamarind chutney, and yogurt-based sauces. For a unique twist, try serving them with a mango salsa or a spicy tomato relish.

Conclusion

Samosas, with their crispy exteriors and flavorful fillings, are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you stick to the classic potato and pea version or venture into innovative fillings like cheese and corn or lentil and spinach, there’s a samosa recipe for everyone. Try these recipes and bring a piece of Indian culinary heritage to your kitchen. Happy cooking