Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 cup crumbled paneer
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. In a pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin, fennel, and coriander seeds and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add the turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala and sauté for another 30 seconds.
6. Add the crumbled paneer, frozen peas, and cilantro. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
7. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it with your palm.
8. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
9. Cut each circle in half to form two semi-circles.
10. Take one semi-circle and fold it into a cone shape. Seal the edges with a little water.
11. Fill the cone with the paneer mixture, leaving a little space at the top.
12. Seal the top of the cone with a little water and press the edges together to seal the samosa.
13. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
14. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
15. Once the oil is hot, add the samosas in batches and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
16. Remove the samosas with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for frying
Serving size:
Makes 16 samosas
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 200
Total fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrate: 18g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Any vegetable oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.
- Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen peas.
- Fresh mint can be used instead of cilantro.
Variations:
- Add chopped potatoes to the paneer mixture.
- Use different spices to flavor the paneer mixture.
- Add chopped nuts to the paneer mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the samosas to prevent them from absorbing too much oil.
- Don't overfill the samosas or they may burst while frying.
- Serve the samosas hot with chutney or ketchup.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover samosas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place the samosas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the samosas in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the samosas on a platter with chutney or ketchup for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint.
Pairings:
- Serve with chai tea or lassi.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side salad or raita.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the samosas burst while frying, make sure they are sealed properly.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent bacterial growth.
- Store leftover samosas in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Samosas originated in the Middle East and were brought to India by traders.
- Paneer is a type of Indian cheese made from milk.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, savory, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
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Region: Indian