A samosa is a common snack in South Asia, in countries such as Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. It is believed that it originated in Central Asia prior to the 10th century. It generally consists of a fried triangular- or tetrahedron-shaped pastry shell with a savory potato, onion and pea stuffing, but other stuffings like minced meat and fish are often used. |
To make the samosa filling, heat in a skillet:
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
pinch hing
1/2 teaspoon cumin/mustard/sesame seed mixture
When the seeds pop, add:
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 Tablespoon fresh coriander leaves (cilantro), chopped
Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, then add:
1/2 Tablespoon amchur (mango) powder, or 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cumin/coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
pinch hot red pepper powder
Sauté a few minutes, then add:
3 medium potatoes, boiled, peeled, and cut into very small pieces
1/4 cup frozen peas (opt.)
Mix well and sauté just until heated through, them remove from heat and set aside.
To make the samosa dough, mix in a bowl:
2 cups white flour
2 1/2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 Tablespoons rice flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Add water gradually (about 1/4 cups) until the dough holds together, and knead well. Roll into a ball and cover with a
moist cloth. Let rest about 20 minutes.
To assemble the samosas, break off 1 1/2"-2" pieces of the dough, and roll out into 6"-8" diameter circles. Cut each circle in half. Fold each half-circle in thirds to make a pie-wedge shape. Seal the point by pressing or pinching. Pick up the dough, and seal the outside edge by pinching to form a cone. Fill the cone two-thirds with potato mixture. Moisten the lip of the cone with a little milk or water, and pinch to seal. Press the samosa between your palms to remove air pockets. Flute the top edge and cover with a moist cloth until ready to fry.
To cook samosa, deep fry until browned, turning twice; drain. Serve with Tamarind-Date Chutney. |
