Samosas are a popular Indian snack loved by people all around the world. Traditionally, samosas are deep-fried, making them irresistibly crispy but also high in calories. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative without compromising on taste, this baked samosa recipe is the perfect solution. In this article, we will guide you through each step, from preparing the dough to making mouthwatering fillings. Get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of these baked samosas that are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
1. Ingredients for baked samosa
To start with, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 cup green peas, boiled
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
2. How to Make the Samosa Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, carom seeds, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well until the flour resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a stiff dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
3. Preparing the Samosa Filling
Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until aromatic. Now, add the boiled peas and mashed potatoes. Stir in the coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, add lemon juice, and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
4. Assembling the Samosas
Divide the rested dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin oval-shaped sheet. Cut the sheet in half to form two semi-circles. Fold each semi-circle into a cone, sealing the edges with water. Fill the cones with the prepared filling and seal the top edges by pressing firmly.
5. Baking the Samosas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the samosas on the tray and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serving and Storage Tips
Once baked, remove the samosas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite chutney or dipping sauce. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
7. Samosa Variations
Samosas offer endless possibilities for experimentation. You can try different fillings like minced meat, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or mixed vegetables. Feel free to add your favorite spices and herbs to create unique flavor combinations.
8. Chutney and Dipping Sauce Recipes
To enhance the flavors of your baked samosas, here are two popular chutney and dipping sauce recipes:
- Mint Chutney: Blend together fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, lemon juice, and salt. Add a pinch of sugar for a balanced taste.
- Tamarind Chutney: Boil tamarind pulp, jaggery (or brown sugar), dates, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt in water. Cook until the mixture thickens into a sauce-like consistency.
9. Nutritional Value of Baked Samosas
Here is the approximate nutritional value for one serving (2 baked samosas):
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Vitamin A | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 10% |
| Calcium | 2% |
| Iron | 10% |
Please note that these values may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the samosa dough?
A1: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to make the dough healthier. However, the texture and taste may differ slightly.
Q2: Can I freeze the unbaked samosas for later use?
A2: Absolutely! Once you assemble the samosas, place them on a baking tray and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen samosas to a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake them for a few extra minutes.
Q3: Can I make baked samosas ahead of time for a party?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the samosas ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them in the preheated oven. This way, you can enjoy fresh and crispy samosas without the hassle of last-minute preparations.
11. Conclusion:
This recipe for baked samosas provides a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. By baking the samosas, you can reduce the amount of oil used without compromising on taste and texture. Experiment with different fillings and spices to create your own variations. Whether you serve them as a snack or at a party, these baked samosas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delicious flavors guilt-free!