Sep 03 2026

Keema Samosa (2) Recipe

Time1h 15m
Serves2

Crisp triangular turnover shells stuffed with ground lamb, green peas, herb and spices.

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Ingredients

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Samosa wrappers & finishing

Method

Samosa wrappers & finishing

  1. 1

    Make dough

    In a mixing bowl combine 1.5 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp salt. Add 2 tbs vegetable oil and rub into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add about 1/4 cup cold water, mixing until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. Knead 2–3 minutes to a smooth ball. Cover with a damp cloth and rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Divide and roll

    After resting, divide the dough into 6 equal pieces (to make 2 samosas, you will use 2–3 wrappers; extra dough can be refrigerated). Roll each piece into a small ball, then flatten into discs and roll into thin ovals about 1.5–2 mm thick. If making triangular samosas traditionally, cut each oval in half across the middle to form two semi-circles (each semi-circle becomes one cone).

  3. 3

    Oil for frying

    Pour about 2 cups vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot to reach ~2 inches depth. Heat over medium to medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or a piece of dough sizzles and rises to the surface within a few seconds.

Keema (ground lamb) filling

  1. 4

    Warm spices and aromatics

    Heat 1.5 tbs oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 tsp cumin seeds, 1/4 tsp mustard seeds (if using), 2 green cardamom pods (crushed slightly), 1-inch cinnamon stick, and 1 bay leaf. Sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

  2. 5

    Sauté onion, ginger and garlic

    Add 1/2 medium finely chopped yellow onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened and beginning to brown. Add 1 tsp grated ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 finely chopped green chili; cook 1–2 minutes until aromatic.

  3. 6

    Cook the keema

    Add 8 oz ground lamb to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook over medium-high heat 5–7 minutes until browned and most moisture has evaporated.

  4. 7

    Spice the meat

    Stir in 1/4 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp ground cumin and 1/4 tsp red chili powder (or paprika) plus 3/4 tsp salt. Cook 1–2 minutes to toast the spices and coat the meat.

  5. 8

    Add peas and finish

    Add 1/2 cup green peas and 2 tbs chopped cilantro. If using frozen peas, add a splash (1–2 tbs) of water, cover and cook 2–3 minutes until peas are tender. Remove whole spices (cinnamon stick, bay leaf, cardamom pods) if desired. Stir in 1 tsp lemon juice, taste and adjust seasoning. Let mixture cool to room temperature before filling (about 10–15 minutes).

Sealing paste & assembly

  1. 9

    Make sealing paste

    Mix 1 tsp flour with 1 tsp water to a smooth, slightly thick paste. This will act as glue to seal samosas.

  2. 10

    Form cones

    Take one dough semi-circle. Fold the straight edge over to form a cone (bring the two corners of the straight edge together) and seal the long edge with the flour paste, leaving the cone open at the top. Repeat for remaining wrappers.

  3. 11

    Fill and seal

    Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the cooled keema filling into each cone (do not overfill). Brush the open edge with the flour paste and pinch to seal, ensuring there are no gaps. Repeat to make 2 samosas (you will produce extra depending on wrapper count). Keep assembled samosas covered to prevent drying.

  4. 12

    Fry samosas

    Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower samosas, 2–3 at a time, into hot oil. Fry, turning occasionally, until evenly golden brown and crisp, about 3–5 minutes. Maintain moderate heat so samosas cook through without burning.

  5. 13

    Drain and serve

    Using a slotted spoon, transfer samosas to a paper-towel-lined rack to drain excess oil. Let rest 2–3 minutes. Serve hot with chutney or yogurt dipping sauce.

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