Indulge in the irresistible crunch and savory delight of Punjabi samosas, a beloved street food and celebratory staple across India and beyond. These crispy, golden-brown pastries are bursting with a flavorful potato and pea filling, expertly seasoned with aromatic spices that tantalize the taste buds. Whether you prefer the traditional deep-fried version or a healthier air-fried alternative, the satisfying experience of biting into a perfectly cooked samosa remains unparalleled. The unique blend of spices and the flaky, melt-in-your-mouth pastry make these samosas a true culinary masterpiece.
From the careful preparation of the dough to the precise folding technique, creating authentic Punjabi samosas requires attention to detail. This guide will take you through two delicious recipes, one using a conventional deep fryer and the other employing a convenient air fryer. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure and learn to make these delectable treats? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Mixer grinder
- Mortar and pestle
- Kadhai/Pan
- Rolling pin
- Air fryer (optional)
- Thick-bottomed pan
- Sieve
- Infrared thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Dough and Filling
- In a bowl, mix flour, semolina, ajwain, and salt. Add ghee and mix well until crumbly. Gradually add water to form a stiff dough. Knead for 4-5 minutes, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes.
- In a mixer grinder, blend ginger and green chilies with a little water.
- Coarsely grind cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds in a mortar and pestle.
- Heat ghee in a pan. Add the ground spices and sauté for 1 minute. Add the ginger-chili paste and fry for 1-2 minutes. Add diced potatoes, green peas, salt, chaat masala, black pepper, fried kasuri methi, and coriander. Mix well, increase heat, and cook until potatoes are lightly roasted (7-8 minutes). Mash potatoes slightly, leaving some chunks. Adjust seasoning.
Step 2. Assemble the Samosas
- Roll out portions of the dough into oblong shapes. Cut each in half. Apply water to the edges, bring two corners together to form a cone, and seal. Fill with masala, seal the top, and pinch to create a sealed samosa.
Step 3. Fry the Samosas (Oil & Air Fryer)
- Heat oil in a pan to 150°C. Fry samosas in batches on medium-high heat for 1.5 minutes, then reduce heat to low and stir gently until golden brown (15 minutes). Drain on a sieve.
- Preheat air fryer to 180°C. Brush samosas lightly with oil/ghee. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Let samosas rest for 10 minutes before serving with chutneys, fried chilies, and tea.
Read more: Lebanese Kofta Kebabs Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use cold water and ghee properly for crispy samosas.
- Don't overfill samosas; ensure even cooking.
- Cover shaped samosas with a wet cloth to prevent drying.
- Fry samosas on low heat for even cooking and crispiness. Don't overcrowd the pan.
- For air frying, preheat the air fryer and brush the samosas with a little oil for better browning.
- Let the samosas rest for 5-10 minutes post-frying to allow the flavors to develop and the crispiness to set.
Nutrition
- Calories: Insufficient data
- Fat: Insufficient datag
- Protein: Insufficient datag
- Carbs: Insufficient datag
FAQs
1. Can I make the samosa dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
2. What's the best way to prevent soggy samosas?
Ensure the samosas are completely dry before frying. Don't overcrowd the pan or air fryer; this allows for even cooking and crispiness. Serve immediately after frying.
3. Can I substitute ingredients in the filling?
Yes, you can adjust the spices to your liking. Some people add green chilies for extra heat, or you could experiment with different vegetables like carrots or cauliflower. However, potatoes and peas are traditional and provide the best texture.
Whether you choose the crispy indulgence of deep-frying or the healthier convenience of the air fryer, these Punjabi samosa recipes are sure to become a new family favorite. The satisfying crunch, aromatic spices, and flavorful filling guarantee a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Now go forth and create your own batch of these delicious treats!