Beef Samosas Recipe

Introduction

Beef Samosas are a popular snack, appetizer, or side dish enjoyed across the world, particularly in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. These delicious triangular pastries are filled with a savory beef mixture, spiced with aromatic herbs and seasonings, then deep-fried to a perfect golden brown. The crispy exterior contrasts wonderfully with the rich, flavorful filling inside, making these treats irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or just craving a tasty bite, Beef Samosas are sure to impress.

The versatility of Beef Samosas makes them perfect for any occasion. You can serve them as appetizers at a party, as part of a main meal with rice and chutneys, or as a quick snack on the go. This recipe provides you with a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Beef Samosas, from preparing the filling to wrapping and frying them to a crispy perfection.

Why You’ll Love Beef Samosas

• Flavor-packed Filling: The beef filling is seasoned with a combination of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s savory, slightly spicy, and perfectly balanced.
• Crispy Texture: The golden, flaky outer crust of a Beef Samosa provides the perfect crunch, offering a satisfying contrast to the tender, spiced beef filling.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spiciness of the filling according to your preference, or even substitute the beef with other proteins like chicken or lamb. Adding vegetables like peas, potatoes, or carrots also makes the filling heartier and more colorful.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing for a casual snack, a party, or a festive gathering, Beef Samosas are a versatile dish that will impress guests and family alike.
• Easy to Make: Despite their complex flavors, Beef Samosas are relatively easy to prepare. The dough is simple to work with, and the filling comes together quickly with basic pantry ingredients.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 20-24 samosas (depending on size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 150-200 calories per samosa, depending on size and frying method.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150-200 kcal
• Fat: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Protein: 6-8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Beef Samosa Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 medium potato, boiled and mashed (optional, for added texture)
• ¼ cup frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Samosa Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted ghee
• ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
• Oil for deep frying

Special Equipment

Though making Beef Samosas doesn’t require specialized tools, having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more efficient:

1. Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps you roll the dough into thin, even rounds that will be used to form the samosa wrappers.
2. Large Frying Pan or Wok: A deep frying pan or wok is necessary to fry the samosas evenly, allowing the oil to cover them completely for a crispy result.
3. Frying Thermometer: A thermometer will help ensure the oil reaches the right temperature (350°F or 175°C), allowing the samosas to cook perfectly and not become greasy.
4. Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For cutting the dough into equal-sized rounds or triangles, you’ll need a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
5. Bowl for Mixing Filling: A mixing bowl will help you combine the cooked beef with the spices and other ingredients efficiently.
6. Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is useful for applying water along the edges of the dough to seal the samosas.
7. Paper Towels: After frying, paper towels are essential for draining any excess oil and ensuring the samosas stay crispy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Samosa Filling

In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and golden brown. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Next, add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.

Once the beef is cooked, add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, cinnamon, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well to evenly coat the beef with the spices, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spices become fragrant.

If you’re adding vegetables, such as mashed potato and peas, mix them into the beef mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The potato adds a creamy texture and helps bind the filling, while peas add color and freshness.

Once everything is well mixed, remove the filling from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color.

2. Prepare the Samosa Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil or melted ghee, and mix it in using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add water, a little at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes. Resting the dough makes it easier to roll out.

3. Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions, each about the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and flatten it into a small disc, about 3-4 inches in diameter. Use a rolling pin to roll each disc into a thin circle, around 6 inches in diameter.

4. Shape the Samosas

Cut each circle of dough in half to form two semi-circles. Using your fingers or a pastry brush, apply a small amount of water along the edges of each semi-circle. This will help seal the samosas once they are filled.

Form a cone shape by folding each semi-circle in half, pressing the edges together to seal. Once you have the cone shape, fill it with the prepared beef filling, leaving a small gap at the top.

To seal the samosa, pinch the top edges together and fold the sides inwards, ensuring the filling is tightly enclosed in the dough. You should now have a neatly folded triangular shape.

5. Heat the Oil for Frying

In a large frying pan or wok, heat about 2-3 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil to check; if it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, the oil is ready.

6. Fry the Samosas

Carefully lower the prepared samosas into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the samosas are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Once the samosas are fully fried, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

7. Serve the Samosas

Serve the Beef Samosas hot with your favorite chutneys, such as mint chutney or tamarind chutney, for dipping. You can also serve them with a side of salad or yogurt for a refreshing contrast.

Tips for Perfect Beef Samosas

• Seal the Samosas Well: Make sure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying. Pressing the edges together with water or using a fork to crimp the edges will help achieve a secure seal.
• Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the samosas. Overfilling can make it difficult to seal the edges properly and cause the filling to spill out while frying.
• Control the Heat: Maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) for the best frying results. If the oil is too hot, the samosas will brown too quickly and remain raw inside; if the oil is too cold, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Use Ghee for Extra Flavor: If you have ghee on hand, use it in the dough or for frying the samosas. Ghee imparts a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Add Vegetables for Texture: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the filling for extra texture and color.

Variations of Beef Samosas

• Spicy Beef Samosas: Add extra chili powder or chopped green chilies to the filling for a spicicy kick. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle chili flakes on top for an extra layer of heat.
• Lamb Samosas: Swap the beef for ground lamb for a richer, more flavorful filling. Lamb samosas have a distinct taste that pairs wonderfully with the spices and herbs.
• Vegetable Samosas: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the beef with a mixture of mashed potatoes, peas, carrots, and spices. This variation is just as delicious and offers a satisfying vegetarian treat.
• Cheese Samosas: For a fusion twist, you can fill the samosas with a mixture of cheese and spices, perhaps adding some herbs like mint or cilantro. Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) works wonderfully in samosas.
• Chicken Samosas: Swap the beef for ground chicken for a leaner alternative. You can season the chicken with similar spices to the beef for a deliciously spiced filling.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef Samosas are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but they can be stored for later enjoyment if needed. Here’s how to store them:

• At Room Temperature: If you have leftover samosas, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose some of their crispness but will still be delicious.
• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the samosas for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or on a stovetop for the best results.
• Freezing: Samosas freeze well. Once they have cooled completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen samosas can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or fry them straight from frozen for 4-5 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef Samosas

Beef Samosas are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes and beverages:

• Mint Chutney or Tamarind Chutney: The sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy chutneys provide the perfect dipping sauce for samosas. Mint chutney adds a fresh, herbal contrast, while tamarind chutney offers a tart, sweet flavor.
• Yogurt or Raita: A cool, creamy yogurt dip or raita (yogurt mixed with spices and herbs) balances the spiciness of the samosas and enhances their flavor.
• Salads: A fresh side salad with cucumber, tomato, and red onions, dressed in a light vinaigrette or lemon juice, complements the rich and crispy samosas.
• Biryani or Rice Pilaf: For a more substantial meal, serve Beef Samosas alongside a fragrant biryani or a simple rice pilaf. The rice helps balance out the richness of the samosas.
• Tea or Lassi: Beef Samosas pair perfectly with a cup of masala chai (spiced tea) or a refreshing mango lassi. The warmth and spices of chai complement the savory filling of the samosas, while the coolness of lassi adds a refreshing contrast.

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Conclusion

Beef Samosas are a flavorful, crispy, and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The combination of spiced ground beef, crispy dough, and deep-fried texture makes them a beloved treat for many. Whether you’re serving them at a party, sharing them with family, or enjoying them as a snack, these samosas are sure to be a hit.

With their customizable fillings and easy preparation process, you can make Beef Samosas to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this dish your own. From the first bite to the last, Beef Samosas deliver an unforgettable burst of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Beef Samosas. Happy cooking!