Samosa, a popular Indian snack enjoyed by many, is typically deep-fried in oil to achieve its iconic crispy texture. However, with the growing popularity of air fryers, people are now seeking healthier alternatives to their favorite fried foods. Cooking samosas in an air fryer offers a way to enjoy this delicious snack with less oil, resulting in a guilt-free indulgence. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of cooking samosas in an air fryer, providing you with a crispy and healthy alternative to the traditional deep-fried version.
Gather the necessary ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the required ingredients at hand. For making samosas in an air fryer, you will need:
1. For the filling:
– Potatoes: 2 medium-sized, boiled and mashed
– Peas: 1/2 cup, boiled (optional)
– Onion: 1 medium-sized, finely chopped
– Green chili: 1, finely chopped
– Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
– Cumin seeds: 1/2 teaspoon
– Turmeric powder: 1/4 teaspoon
– Coriander powder: 1/2 teaspoon
– Garam masala: 1/2 teaspoon
– Salt: to taste
– Oil: 2 tablespoons for cooking the filling
2. For the outer layer:
– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Carom seeds (ajwain): 1 teaspoon
– Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
– Oil: 2 tablespoons for kneading the dough
– Water: as required for kneading the dough
3. For the air frying process:
– Oil: 1-2 tablespoons for brushing the samosas
– Optional: chaat masala for sprinkling on top
Prepare the samosa filling
The filling is what gives the samosa its mouthwatering taste. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, and once they splutter, add the finely chopped onions. Sauté the onions until golden brown, then add the grated ginger and green chili. Stir them together for a minute until the flavors blend well.
Next, add the boiled and mashed potatoes, along with the boiled peas if you prefer. Give it a good mix, ensuring that all the ingredients are well combined. Now it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir everything together, and let the filling cook for about 5 minutes. Once ready, set the filling aside and let it cool.
Prepare the samosa dough
To make the outer layer of the samosa, you will need a simple dough made from all-purpose flour. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, carom seeds, salt, and oil. Knead the dough, gradually adding water as needed to form a firm yet pliable consistency. Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20 minutes.
Shape and fill the samosas
After the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized portions and roll each portion into a small circular shape. Cut each circle in half.
Take one half and form a cone by bringing together the straight edge and overlapping it slightly with the curved edge of the semicircle. Seal the edge of the cone by applying some water with your finger. Now, fill the cone-shaped dough with the prepared filling, leaving some space at the top to seal it completely. Apply water to the edges of the cone to seal it tightly.
Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling until you have prepared all the samosas.
Cook the samosas in the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for a couple of minutes. Meanwhile, brush the prepared samosas with some oil to enhance their crispiness.
Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the samosas inside the fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each samosa for proper air circulation. Cook the samosas for around 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Keep a close eye on the samosas to prevent them from overcooking or burning. Depending on your air fryer model and the size of the samosas, the cooking time may vary slightly. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor them during the process to achieve the desired level of crispiness.
Enjoy your crispy and healthy samosas
Once the samosas are golden brown and crispy, remove them carefully from the air fryer. Give them a few minutes to cool down before serving. Sprinkle some chaat masala on top for an extra burst of flavor, if desired.
Serve the samosas hot with your favorite chutney or sauce. Whether you prefer mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or spicy ketchup, the delightful combination of flavors will surely leave your taste buds wanting more. Enjoy these crispy delights as an evening snack or as part of a meal. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
A healthier alternative
Air frying samosas provides a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying without compromising on the taste and texture. The use of minimal oil considerably reduces the overall calorie content, making it a guilt-free treat for those watching their weight or looking for a healthier snacking option.
Moreover, air frying eliminates the need for excessive oil, making the process hassle-free and less messy compared to deep-frying. You can enjoy the same deliciousness of samosas while knowing that you are making a healthier choice for yourself and your loved ones.
In conclusion, cooking samosas in an air fryer offers a crispy and healthy alternative to traditional deep-fried samosas. By following these simple steps, you can prepare mouthwatering samosas with a fraction of the oil typically used in deep-frying. So, grab your air fryer, gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to create your own batch of crispy and flavorful samosas.