Air Fryer Samosas Recipe

Name: Air Fryer Samosas
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 2/3 cup frozen peas, thawed; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish; 24 wonton wrappers; cooking spray; 3/4 cup whole-milk Greek-style yogurt; 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 teaspoon lime zest; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 clove garlic, chopped; 1 pinch each salt; 1 pinch black pepper

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings

12 ounces Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2/3 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
24 wonton wrappers
Cooking spray

Cilantro-Yogurt Sauce

3/4 cup whole-milk Greek-style yogurt
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 pinch salt
1 pinch freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Add the potatoes to a small saucepan and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and transfer the potatoes to a bowl. Mash them until mostly smooth, leaving a few small chunks.
Step 2: In the same saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 3 to 4 minutes). Stir in the ginger and garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the garam masala, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromas.
Step 4: Stir in the mashed potatoes and frozen peas. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
Step 5: Place the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Spoon an equal amount of the filling into the center of each wrapper. Lightly wet the edges with water and fold two opposite corners together to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal securely.
Step 6: Lightly coat both sides of each samosa with cooking spray. Preheat your air fryer to 350F (175C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 7: Working in batches if necessary, arrange the samosas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 8 minutes, turning halfway through, until the samosas are golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: While the samosas are cooking, prepare the cilantro-yogurt sauce. Combine the yogurt, cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small food processor. Process until well combined. Chill the sauce, covered, for up to 5 days.
Step 9: Serve the samosas with the cilantro-yogurt sauce and garnish with extra cilantro. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1 samosa):

Calories: 141
Total Fat: 3g (4% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 1g (4% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 19mg (6% Daily Value)
Sodium: 321mg (14% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 20g (7% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 2g
Protein: 7g (15% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 6mg (6% Daily Value)
Calcium: 44mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
Potassium: 269mg (6% Daily Value)

The Story and Cultural Significance of Samosas

Samosas, the iconic triangular pastries filled with savory ingredients, trace their origins back to Central Asia and the Middle East. They were introduced to the Indian subcontinent by traders and travelers around the 13th or 14th century. Initially called sambusak, these pastries were adapted over centuries with local ingredients and spices, evolving into the beloved Indian samosa known today. The combination of spiced potatoes, peas, and aromatic herbs became a signature filling that represents Indian street food culture.

Regional Variations Across India

While samosas are enjoyed throughout India, regional differences make each variety unique. In North India, samosas often feature a potato and pea filling with a robust blend of cumin, garam masala, and coriander. In Gujarat, they are smaller and may include sweet elements like raisins or coconut. In South India, samosas sometimes incorporate lentils, green chilies, and curry leaves, reflecting the local culinary preferences. Each region adds its own twist, demonstrating the versatility of this snack across different Indian cuisines.

Distinguishing Samosas from Similar Snacks

Although many cultures have stuffed pastries, samosas stand out due to their distinctive triangular shape and spiced fillings. Unlike empanadas, which are often baked or pan-fried with a milder seasoning, samosas are usually deep-fried or air-fried and feature a pronounced spice profile. Another similar dish is the Chinese spring roll; however, spring rolls are cylindrical and typically contain vegetables without the intense spice mix that defines Indian samosas. This combination of shape, spices, and texture makes samosas uniquely identifiable.

Where Samosas Are Typically Served

Samosas are a popular street food snack in India, often sold by vendors outside markets, railway stations, and temples. They are also served as appetizers in Indian restaurants worldwide and frequently appear at festive gatherings, weddings, and family celebrations. Accompaniments like mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or a cilantro-yogurt dip enhance their flavor, making them a versatile snack suitable for casual and formal occasions alike.

Interesting Facts About Samosas

The triangular shape is said to symbolize the three elements of food: carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables, though this is more anecdotal than historical.
Air fryer samosas, like in this recipe, offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions, reducing oil while maintaining crispiness.
Samosas have inspired fusion dishes worldwide, including samosa chaat, samosa burgers, and even dessert versions with sweet fillings.
In some cultures, samosas are associated with good luck and are served during religious festivals like Diwali and Eid.
The word samosa has been incorporated into English dictionaries, reflecting its global popularity.

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FAQ about Air Fryer Samosas Recipe

Store leftover samosas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain their crispiness, you can reheat them in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F.

Yes, you can freeze uncooked samosas before air frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook from frozen, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Yes, you can use spring roll wrappers or filo pastry instead of wonton wrappers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as different wrappers may cook at different rates.

Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Make sure to let the filling cool before assembling the samosas.

If you don’t have garam masala, you can substitute with a mixture of ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and a pinch of cloves. It won't be exactly the same but will still give a flavorful, aromatic kick.

To ensure the samosas stay crispy, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give them enough space for air to circulate around them. Also, spray both sides of the samosas with cooking spray to help them crisp up.

Yes, you can make the cilantro-yogurt sauce ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

To make the samosas spicier, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the filling or add finely chopped fresh green chilies. You can also increase the amount of chili powder in the yogurt sauce.

Yes, you can use any type of potato for the filling, but Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their creamy texture. Russet potatoes are also fine but may result in a slightly drier filling.

This recipe yields 12 samosas, but you can easily adjust the recipe to make more or fewer depending on your needs.