Cuisine : Chana Samosa - how to prepare this Indian item

 

Chana Samosa, also known as Chickpea Samosa, is a delicious Indian snack filled with spiced chickpeas. Here's a detailed guide on how to prepare Chana Samosa:

Ingredients:

### For the Dough:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)

- 1/4 cup ghee or oil

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- Water, as needed

### For the Filling:

- 1 cup boiled and mashed chickpeas

- 1 large potato, boiled and mashed

- 1 cup chopped onions

- 1/2 cup green peas

- 2 green chilies, finely chopped

- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- Salt to taste

- 2 tablespoons oil for cooking

### Other:

- Oil for deep frying

Instructions:

#### For the Dough:

1. **Prepare the Dough:**

   - In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, ghee or oil, and salt. Gradually add water and knead to form a smooth and firm dough. Cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

#### For the Filling:

2. **Prepare the Filling:**

   - Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds, chopped onions, and green chilies. Sauté until onions are golden brown.

3. **Add Spices:**

   - Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute. Then, add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.

4. **Add Vegetables:**

   - Add boiled and mashed chickpeas, mashed potatoes, and green peas. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

5. **Cook the Filling:**

   - Cook the mixture until it becomes dry and well-combined. Allow it to cool.

#### Assembling and Frying:

6. **Divide the Dough:**

   - Divide the rested dough into small equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin oval or round shape.

7. **Shape the Samosas:**

   - Cut the rolled dough in half to form two semi-circles. Create a cone shape by folding each semi-circle and sealing the edges with a little water.

8. **Fill the Samosas:**

   - Fill each cone with the prepared chickpea filling. Seal the open edge, ensuring the samosa is well-closed.

9. **Heat Oil for Frying:**

   - Heat oil in a deep pan for frying. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking.

10. **Fry the Samosas:**

    - Carefully slide the prepared samosas into the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown and crisp.

11. **Serve Hot:**

    - Drain excess oil and place the Chana Samosas on paper towels. Serve hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce.

Enjoy these crunchy and flavorful Chana Samosas as a delightful snack or appetizer.