Homemade Vegetable Samosas

Crispy vegetable samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas are a popular Indian snack or appetizer. This homemade samosa recipe features flaky pastry and a flavorful vegetarian filling made from pantry staples. Perfect for entertaining, tea time, or freezing for later, these golden fried samosas pair well with mint chutney or tamarind sauce. Ideal for festive occasions or everyday meals, this easy samosa recipe delivers authentic flavor with simple ingredients.

These crispy and golden vegetable samosas are made with a spiced potato and pea filling wrapped in flaky homemade dough. Deep-fried to perfection, they’re ideal for a snack, starter, or part of an Indian-inspired meal.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 280 g (2½ cups) plain (all-purpose) flour
• 1 tsp carom (ajwain) seeds
• 1 tsp salt
• 5 tbsp melted ghee (or neutral oil)
• 7 tbsp water (adjust as needed)
• 1–2 tbsp oil (for rolling)

For the Filling

• 2 medium-large potatoes (about 300 g), peeled and chopped into 2 cm chunks
• 1 tbsp ghee or oil
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• ¼ tsp ground cumin
• ¼ tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ¼ tsp asafoetida
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped
• 50 g (⅓ cup) frozen peas
• 10 g (about 3 tbsp) finely chopped fresh coriander
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For Frying and Serving

• 2 litres oil (or enough to fill your pan one-third to one-half full)
• Sweet chilli sauce, to serve

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, carom seeds, and salt.
2. Add the melted ghee and rub into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add water, mixing to form a firm (not sticky) dough.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Make the Filling

1. Boil the potatoes until just tender, about 10–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee in a frying pan. Add cumin seeds and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, asafoetida, ginger paste, and green chilli. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add peas and cook for 1 minute, then add potatoes. Gently mash the potatoes slightly.
5. Stir in chopped coriander, salt, and lemon juice. Fold gently and let cool.

Assemble the Samosas

1. Divide the dough into 6 balls. Roll each into a 15 cm (6-inch) circle.
2. Cut each circle in half. Form each half into a cone and seal the edge with water.
3. Fill each cone with a heaped tablespoon of filling and seal the top edge with water.
4. Repeat to make 12 samosas. Cover with a damp towel while you heat the oil.

Fry the Samosas

1. Heat oil to 160–165°C (320–329°F).
2. Fry samosas in batches (6 at a time) for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp.
3. Drain on paper towels. Keep warm in a low oven while frying the rest.

Serve

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chilli or tamarind chutney.

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Tips

• Keep the dough firm for crispier samosas.
• Fry on medium-low heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
• Use a potato masher gently for texture—don’t over-mash.
• If making ahead, you can freeze shaped (unfried) samosas on a tray, then transfer to a bag for later use.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Filling Ideas: Add finely chopped cooked carrots or sautéed mushrooms for variation.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chilli or use chilli powder to your preference.
• Baking Option: For a lighter version, brush with oil and bake at 200°C (390°F) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

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FAQs

Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes. Prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.

Can I air fry samosas?
Yes. Brush lightly with oil and cook in the air fryer at 180°C (355°F) for 15–20 minutes.

Can I freeze cooked samosas?
Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then freeze. Reheat in an oven or air fryer until hot and crisp.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or sweet chilli sauce.
• Serve as a starter or part of a thali with rice, dal, and vegetable curry.
• Add to a snack platter with pakoras, bhajis, and naan.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made completely from scratch with simple ingredients
• Crisp, flaky pastry with a soft, spiced filling
• Customisable to your taste and easily made vegan
• Perfect for sharing, parties, or as a comforting homemade snack