Vegetable Samosas

These traditional Indian vegetable samosas are a delightful appetizer, featuring a crispy, golden-brown pastry filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes, peas, and aromatic spices. Perfectly seasoned and deep-fried, they offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• water (as needed)
• 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1/2 cup green peas, boiled
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• salt to taste
• oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Gradually add water and knead to form a smooth dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. In another bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, boiled peas, cumin seeds, garam masala, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cilantro, and salt. Mix well to form the filling.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin oval shape. Cut the oval in half to form two semi-circles.
5. Take one semi-circle, and form a cone by folding it in half and sealing the edge with water. Fill the cone with the vegetable mixture and seal the open edge by pinching it together.
6. Repeat the process for the remaining dough and filling.
7. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the samosas in batches until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce.