Discover how to make the perfect samosa with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you prefer them fried or baked, these golden, crispy pastries are filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and your choice of meat. Ideal for appetizers, snacks, or party treats, this recipe provides step-by-step instructions and tips to achieve a delicious, authentic samosa experience.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

 - 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced

 - 1 cup frozen peas

 - 1/2 cup minced meat (optional)

 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped

 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

 - 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

 - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

 - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

 - 1 teaspoon garam masala

 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander

 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

 - Salt to taste

 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

 - Juice of 1 lemon

For the Dough:

 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1/4 cup vegetable oil

 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

 - Water, as needed

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

 - Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds, and let them sizzle for a few seconds.

 - Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

 - Add minced meat (if using) and cook until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.

 - Add turmeric powder, garam masala, ground coriander, chili powder, and salt. Stir well.

 - Add diced potatoes and peas. Mix thoroughly.

 - Cover and cook until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally. Once cooked, stir in chopped cilantro and lemon juice. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dough:

 - In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and vegetable oil.

 - Gradually add water, mixing until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Assemble the Samosas:

 - Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.

 - Cut each circle in half to form semi-circles. Fold each semi-circle into a cone shape and seal the edge with a little water.

 - Fill each cone with the prepared filling, then seal the open edge by pinching it together to form a triangular shape.

Cooking Options:

  - Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the samosas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

  - Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the samosas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush lightly with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve: Enjoy your samosas hot with your favorite chutneys or sauces.

Nutritional Values

2 Large Potatoes (peeled and diced)

   - Calories: 290

   - Carbohydrates: 67 grams

   - Protein: 7 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins C and B6.

   - High in fiber, supporting digestive health.

1 cup Frozen Peas

   - Calories: 115

   - Carbohydrates: 21 grams

   - Protein: 8 grams

   - Fat: 0.5 grams

Benefits:

   - High in protein and fiber.

   - Provides vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins.

1/2 cup Minced Meat (optional)

   - Calories: 250

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Protein: 20 grams

   - Fat: 20 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12.

1 Medium Onion (finely chopped)

   - Calories: 45

   - Carbohydrates: 11 grams

   - Protein: 1 gram

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

   - Supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil

   - Calories: 240

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Fat: 28 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides necessary fats for cooking.

   - Adds flavor and helps in cooking the filling.

Cumin Seeds (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 8

   - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

   - Protein: 0.5 grams

   - Fat: 0.5 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and supports digestion.

   - Provides iron and may aid in metabolism.

Mustard Seeds (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 7

   - Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams

   - Protein: 0.5 grams

   - Fat: 0.5 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants.

   - Supports digestion and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Turmeric Powder (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 8

   - Carbohydrates: 1.5 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

   - May support joint health and cognitive function.

Garam Masala (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 6

   - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

   - Protein: 0.5 grams

   - Fat: 0.3 grams

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor and aroma to dishes.

   - Contains a blend of spices that provide antioxidants and aid in digestion.

Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 6

   - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

   - Protein: 0.5 grams

   - Fat: 0.3 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and supports digestive health.

   - May help with inflammation and blood sugar control.

Chili Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 3

   - Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains capsaicin, which can boost metabolism and improve circulation.

   - Adds heat and flavor to the filling.

Salt (to taste)

   - Sodium: 1,150 mg per ½ teaspoon

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Chopped Fresh Cilantro(2 tablespoons)

   - Calories: 1

   - Carbohydrates: 0.2 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides antioxidants and supports digestion.

   - Adds a fresh flavor to the filling.

Juice of 1 Lemon

   - Calories: 12

   - Carbohydrates: 4 grams

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system.

   - Adds a tangy flavor and aids in digestion.

2 cups All-Purpose Flour

   - Calories: 910

   - Carbohydrates: 190 grams

   - Protein: 16 grams

   - Fat: 2 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides a base for many recipes.

   - Source of energy through carbohydrates.

Vegetable Oil ( 1/4 cup)

   - Calories: 240

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Fat: 28 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides necessary fats for cooking.

   - Helps in making the dough tender and pliable.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon)

   - Sodium: 1,150 mg

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor and helps in dough formation.

Water (as needed)

   - 0 calories

Benefits:

   - Essential for hydration and to adjust the dough consistency.

This breakdown includes the nutritional values and benefits of each ingredient used in the filling and dough for a comprehensive understanding of their contributions to the recipe.