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Classic Indian Samosas in the Air Fryer: A Healthier Twist on a Timeless Snack

Samosas are one of India’s most beloved snacks, renowned for their crispy golden exterior and delicious spiced filling. Traditionally deep-fried, these delectable pastries can be rich and indulgent. However, with the advent of the air fryer, you can enjoy this classic delight in a healthier manner without sacrificing any flavour. This article explores the history of samosas, their traditional fillings, and provides a simple recipe for making classic Indian samosas in the air fryer.

A Bite of History

The origins of the samosa can be traced back to the 10th century in the Middle East, where they were known as ‘sambusak’ or ‘sambosa’. The concept eventually made its way to the Indian subcontinent, where it was embraced and adapted to local tastes. Today, samosas are often stuffed with a variety of fillings, including spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, making them an integral part of Indian street food culture and a favoured snack for celebrations and gatherings.

Traditional Samosa Fillings

The quintessential samosa filling is a blend of mashed potatoes, peas, and a mix of aromatic spices. The spices typically include cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and sometimes green chillies for a kick. Variations abound, with some opting for lentils or meat, but the potato and pea filling remains the classic choice.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

While the traditional deep-frying method gives samosas their characteristic crunch, it can also lead to excessive oil consumption and a higher calorie count. Enter the air fryer: this innovative kitchen appliance uses hot air circulation to achieve a crisp texture with significantly less oil. This method retains the comforting crunch and deliciousness of samosas while making them a more health-conscious option.

Classic Indian Samosas Recipe in the Air Fryer

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons oil or ghee
• ½ teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
• Water (as needed)
• A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 3 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 cup green peas, boiled
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 green chillies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

For Air Frying:

• Oil spray or a brush for greasing

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, carom seeds, and salt. Add the oil or ghee, rubbing it into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water to form a smooth, firm dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:
   In a frying pan, heat a bit of oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the mashed potatoes and peas. Mix in garam masala, coriander powder, turmeric, chopped green chillies, and salt. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavours to meld. Remove from heat and stir in fresh coriander and lemon juice if using. Allow the mixture to cool.

3. Form the Samosas:
   Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin oval or circle about 6 inches in diameter. Cut this in half to form two semi-circles. Take one semi-circle and gently fold it into a cone shape, sealing the edge with a touch of water. Fill the cone with the potato mixture and seal the open edge using water, ensuring no filling escapes.

4. Air Frying:
   Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Lightly coat the samosas with oil spray or brush them with oil to promote even browning. Place the samosas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. Cook for 12–15 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. You may need to turn them halfway through for even cooking.

5. Serve:
   Once done, remove the samosas from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve hot with chutneys, such as mint or tamarind, for a delicious snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Enjoying Your Healthier Samosas

Air-fried samosas maintain the crunch and flavour of their deep-fried counterparts but with a fraction of the oil. Whether as an appetiser or a party snack, they are sure to be a hit. The satisfaction of creating this delightful dish in a healthier way allows you to indulge your cravings guilt-free.

Incorporating classic Indian flavours with modern cooking techniques, air-fried samosas are a culinary bridge between tradition and innovation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy this guilt-free treat that pays homage to a beloved Indian tradition!