Crispy Air Fryer Samosa Recipe – Easy & Delicious

By : Moiz Blogger | 0 Comments | On : 01/07/2025 | Category : weekend

We love making samosas at home, and with our easy air fryer method, you can enjoy this popular snack with less oil. Samosas are a family favorite, filled with potatoes and peas, and air fried to perfection. They make a great starter or side dish for your next party.

Our air fryer samosa recipe offers a healthier twist on the traditional deep-fried version. We’ll guide you through making these delicious Indian pastries at home, and show you why they’re perfect for any occasion.

Key Takeaways

• Easy and delicious air fryer samosa recipe for crispy results
• Healthier alternative to deep-fried samosas
• Perfect for parties, snacks, or as a side dish
• Adaptable to different tastes and preferences
• Accessible recipe for beginners

What Are Samosas and Why Make Them in an Air Fryer?

The allure of samosas lies in their perfect blend of crunch and flavor, making them a beloved snack worldwide. Samosas are triangular or cone-shaped pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and other ingredients that originated in South Asia. Traditionally, they are fried in oil, which makes them crispy, but less healthy. Our family prefers making them in the air fryer or baking them in the oven so that we still get the same crispiness from our vegetable samosas.

Traditional Samosas vs. Air Fryer Samosas

When comparing traditional deep-fried samosas with their air fryer counterparts, the differences in texture, taste, and preparation methods become apparent. Traditional samosas are deep-fried in oil, giving them a crispy exterior. However, this method increases their calorie count. In contrast, air fryer samosas achieve a similar crispiness with significantly less oil. We find that air fryer samosas are not only easier to make but also retain the flavorful interior that makes traditional samosas so popular.

Health Benefits of Air Frying

Air frying offers several health benefits, primarily through the substantial reduction in oil usage – up to 80% less compared to deep frying. By circulating hot air around the food, air fryers create a crispy exterior without submerging the samosas in oil. This method not only reduces the calorie count but also minimizes the mess and cleanup associated with deep frying. Moreover, using an air fryer saves time, as it often cooks faster than conventional methods.

By making samosas in an air fryer, we can enjoy this beloved snack with fewer calories and less guilt. The air fryer’s ability to produce a crispy texture with minimal oil makes it an ideal cooking method for those looking to make healthier versions of their favorite fried foods.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crispy Air Fryer Samosa Recipe

The secret to perfect air fryer samosas starts with having the right ingredients on hand. To make both the dough and the filling, you’ll need a combination of staple ingredients and some special spices.

Dough Ingredients

For the samosa dough, you’ll need all-purpose flour (maida) – 2 cups of it. Add to that salt – about 1/2 teaspoon. The dough also requires chilled water – 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon. You’ll need ghee or oil – 3 tablespoons – to help bind the dough together. Optionally, you can add caraway seeds (ajwain) – about 1/2 teaspoon – for extra flavor.

Filling Ingredients

For the filling, start by heating oil – 3 tablespoons – in a pan. Then add medium potatoes – 5 of them, boiled and chopped. You’ll also need sweet green peas – 1 cup. To give it flavor, add ginger – 1 teaspoon, finely chopped, garam masala – 1 teaspoon, and cumin seeds – 1/2 teaspoon. Salt should be added to taste. Finally, add a tablespoon of water to help the mixture come together.

Making the Perfect Samosa Dough

Crafting the perfect samosa dough is an art that requires precision and patience. The dough is the foundation of a great samosa, and getting it right is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy exterior and tender interior.

Step-by-Step Dough Preparation

To make the samosa dough, start by combining flour, salt, and caraway seeds in a large stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Add ghee or oil and mix briefly. Gradually add chilled water while mixing on slow speed until a firm, stiff dough develops. This process should take about 5 to 6 minutes with a hook attachment. Alternatively, you can knead the dough by hand.

Once the dough is ready, cover it with a wet cloth to prevent it from drying out or forming a skin. Let it rest to allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with.

Tips for the Right Dough Consistency

The key to perfect samosa dough is achieving the right consistency. The dough should be firm but pliable. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, sprinkle some water. To test the dough, try rolling it out into a thin circle; if it tears easily, it needs more kneading.

Preparing the Flavorful Potato Filling

The key to a great samosa lies in its filling, which is why we’re going to guide you through preparing a flavorful potato filling. A well-made filling can elevate your samosas and make them truly delicious.

Cooking the Potatoes

To start, you’ll need to cook the potatoes until they’re tender. Boil them in salted water until they’re easily pierced with a fork. Drain the water and let the potatoes cool. Once cool enough to handle, peel and chop them into small pieces. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your samosa filling.

Adding Spices and Aromatics

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add ginger and cumin seeds to the oil and let them sizzle until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the chopped potatoes, salt, and garam masala. Use a spoon or potato masher to semi-mash the potatoes as they cook, until they start sticking to the pan. Add peas and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool.

Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor

To give your samosa filling an extra boost of flavor, consider adding optional ingredients like fennel seeds, coriander seeds, or dry mango powder. These spices can add depth and complexity to your filling. Mix them in after the potato mixture has cooled slightly. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed before using it to fill your samosas.

How to Fold Samosas Like a Pro

Learning how to fold samosas like a pro is easier than you think, and we’re here to guide you through it. Folding samosas is a crucial step in making these delicious treats, as it ensures that the filling is securely enclosed and the samosas cook evenly.

Step-by-Step Folding Instructions

To start, once your stuffing mixture is cool enough to handle, divide the dough into 20 balls for mini samosas or 8 balls for larger ones. Roll each ball into an oval shape, about 10 inches long and 6 inches wide for the larger ones. If needed, grease the balls with a drop of oil to prevent sticking.

Cut each oval-shaped rolled dough in half. Take one half and place it in your hand so that the cut edges are towards your index finger and thumb. Dab your other index finger in water and rub it along one edge to give it a bit of moisture.

Next, shape the dough into a cone, slightly overlapping the edges. Gently press the overlapping edges to make sure they are sealed. Then, fill the cone with the prepared filling, being careful not to overstuff it. Apply a little water on the open edges and seal them by pinching closed.

Common Folding Mistakes to Avoid

When folding samosas, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. One of the most frequent errors is overstuffing, which can cause the samosa to burst open during cooking. Another mistake is not sealing the edges properly, leading to leakage. To avoid these issues, handle the dough gently and ensure the edges are tightly sealed.

By following these steps and being mindful of the potential pitfalls, you’ll be able to create beautifully folded samosas that are sure to impress on the side of your air fryer samosa recipe.

Crispy Air Fryer Samosa Recipe: Cooking Instructions

The moment of truth arrives as we cook our carefully prepared samosas in the air fryer, ensuring a crispy exterior and a tender interior. To achieve this perfect balance, we need to follow some crucial steps.

Preheating and Preparing Your Air Fryer

Before cooking, it’s essential to preheat the air fryer to the right temperature. Preheat it to 350 degrees F. While the air fryer is heating up, generously coat each samosa with oil. This step is crucial for achieving that golden brown crispiness. Arrange the samosas in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to allow for proper air circulation.

Temperature and Timing Guidelines

Air fry the samosas at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. It’s crucial to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. At the 10-minute mark, carefully flip the samosas to achieve uniform crispiness on all sides.

How to Know When Samosas Are Done

The samosas are done when they exhibit a golden brown color and a crispy texture. It’s also important to check that they are cooked through and the filling is heated evenly. If necessary, adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer model and the size of your samosas.

By following these cooking instructions, you’ll be able to enjoy deliciously crispy air fryer samosas that are sure to impress.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you’re looking to mix up your samosa cooking routine, consider baking or deep frying as alternative methods. While air frying is a convenient and healthier option, baking and deep frying offer different textures and flavors worth exploring.

Baking in a Conventional Oven

Baking samosas in a conventional oven is a healthier alternative to deep frying. To bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Generously coat each samosa with oil and arrange them on a baking sheet, leaving space between them to prevent overcrowding. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through at 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Traditional Deep Frying Method

Deep frying is a traditional method for cooking samosas, yielding a crispy exterior. Heat enough oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven to submerge the samosas. Once the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning. Carefully place the samosas in the oil using tongs or a spoon. Cook until one side is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until it’s also golden brown.

When deep frying, it’s crucial to monitor the oil temperature and not overcrowd the pan. For a crispy exterior and a cooked interior, the oil should be hot enough, but not smoking. After frying, place the samosas on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Samosas Every Time

Achieving perfectly crispy air fryer samosas requires some finesse, but with our expert tips, you’ll be a pro in no time. Making samosas in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, and with the right techniques, you can achieve deliciously crispy results.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your samosas didn’t come out crispy, it might be due to the dough not being soft enough or overcrowding in the air fryer basket. To avoid this, make sure to cook them in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding. Additionally, ensure your air fryer is preheated to the right temperature.

Making Ahead and Storage Options

You can store your samosas once they have cooled. To maintain their crispiness, place a paper towel between them and store them in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3 to 5 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or air fryer at about 300 degrees for 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked samosas every time you use your air fryer. Experiment with different fillings and recipes to keep your snack game strong.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of making samosas in an air fryer opens up a world of crispy, flavorful possibilities. We’ve guided you through the process of creating the perfect samosa dough and preparing a delicious potato filling, all while highlighting the benefits of using an air fryer.

By following our air fryer samosa recipe, you can enjoy this popular Indian appetizer with less oil, making it a healthier option for you and your family. Samosas are versatile and can be served as a snack or party food, paired with your favorite chutney or dip.

We encourage you to experiment with different fillings and flavors, making this recipe your own. Whether you’re serving it as part of a larger Indian meal or as a standalone dish, our samosa recipe is sure to impress. Try pairing it with our Chana Masala recipe or a refreshing Mango Coconut Lassi for a delightful culinary experience.