Hotel Management Class Notes 43

Making samosas, a popular Indian snack, is a fun and rewarding process. These crispy pastries are typically filled with spiced potatoes and peas. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare delicious homemade samosas.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups
• Caraway Seeds (Ajwain): 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Salt: ½ teaspoon
• Oil: 2 tablespoons (for dough)
• Water: As needed (about ½ cup)

For the Filling:

• Potatoes: 2 medium (boiled and mashed)
• Green Peas: ½ cup (boiled)
• Onion: 1 small (finely chopped)
• Green Chili: 1 (finely chopped, adjust to taste)
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon (grated)
• Coriander Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Cumin Powder: ½ teaspoon
• Garam Masala: ½ teaspoon
• Salt: To taste
• Cilantro: A handful (chopped, optional)
• Oil: 1 tablespoon (for filling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds (if using).
2. Add Oil: Pour in 2 tablespoons of oil. Rub the mixture between your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Knead the Dough: Gradually add water, a little at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the Filling: In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add Spices: Stir in the grated ginger, green chili, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Mix in Potatoes and Peas: Add the boiled, mashed potatoes and peas. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in garam masala and chopped cilantro. Allow the filling to cool.

Step 3: Shape the Samosas

1. Divide the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into equal-sized balls (about 10-12).
2. Roll Out the Dough: Take one ball, roll it out into a thin oval (about 6 inches long) on a lightly floured surface.
3. Cut the Dough: Cut the oval in half to create two semicircles.
4. Form a Cone: Take one semicircle, and fold it into a cone shape, sealing the edge with a little water.
5. Fill the Cone: Fill the cone with about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato filling. Seal the open edge by pinching it together, ensuring there are no gaps. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 4: Fry the Samosas

1. Heat Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat to submerge the samosas.
2. Fry: Once hot, gently slide in a few samosas at a time. Fry until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the samosas and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serving

Serve hot samosas with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or yogurt. They make a perfect snack or appetizer!

Tips

• Baking Option: For a healthier version, brush the samosas with oil and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as lentils, cheese, or meat.

Enjoy the delicious experience of making and sharing homemade samosas!