Crunchy, tasty, and surprisingly easy
Are you sick of the same old snacks? Want something savory, filling, and surprisingly easy to make, even on the busiest weeknights?
These Quick Vegetarian Samosas are going to change the way you snack for good. These golden, crunchy triangles are filled with spiced potatoes and sweet peas. When people smell them cooking, they all run to the kitchen.
The best part is that they only take about 30 minutes to make by using a clever trick that is often not mentioned in most recipes. Instead of making dough from scratch, we’re using store-bought wrappers, like spring rolls or samosa wrappers from the freezer aisle. Same great taste, but a lot less time.
Why This Recipe Is Great for Busy Families:
- 30 minutes total—for both prep and cooking. Affordable—peas and potatoes are things you always have on hand..
- Flavors that kids love—not too spicy, just right savory
- Choose your adventure: bake or fry—freezer-friendly—make a batch and freeze it for later
- Great for any event—snacks after school, appetizers for a party, or treats for game day
A Quick Look at the Recipe: –Recipe: – Time to Prepare: 15 minutes
- Time to Cook: 15 minutes
- Time Needed: 30 minutes- Yield: 16–20 samosas
- Dietary Labels: Vegan, Vegetarian (look at the ingredients on the wrapper), and Dairy-Free
Why This Recipe Works in Real Life
I came up with this recipe on a Friday afternoon when my kids’ friends came over to play without warning. I needed a quick, impressive dish I could make with what I had. Peas that have been frozen? Check. Potatoes? All the time. I purchased spring roll wrappers a few weeks ago, but I never used them. Everyone was asking for more of what came out of my kitchen. The timing is perfect.
Thirty minutes later, what came out of my kitchen had all the kids and adults hovering around the plate asking for more. The spiced potato filling is warm and comforting, and the wrapper crisps up nicely whether you fry or bake it. The whole thing feels like a special treat, even though it’s simple to make.
The secret to making samosas quickly is that making that making traditional samosa dough is tasty but takes a long time. You can skip the hardest part and still get that crispy outside by using pre-made wrappers that you can find in the freezer or the international aisle. The filling is where the magic happens, and it only takes about 10 minutes on the stove to make.
This is the recipe I always use for:
- Snacks after school when everyone is hungry- Guests who weren’t expected to come
- Appetizers for parties that really wow people
- Make meals ahead of time (freeze a batch for later).later).
Why you can trust this recipe: We at Quick Meals Guide try out every recipe to make sure it really is “quick and easy.” We have prepared these samosas numerous times in our kitchen, made adjustments based on feedback, and tested them on extremely busy weeknights. Fantastic! They do work.
Things You Will Need
For the Filling
2 big potatoes (about 1 pound total) Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are best for the texture. You want potatoes that aren’t too watery but are easy to mash.
1 cup of frozen green peas. You don’t need to thaw them; they’ll warm up when you mix them with the hot potatoes.
1 medium onion, chopped very small
2 teaspoons of ginger-garlic paste (or 1 teaspoon of each minced fresh ginger and garlic)
1 minced green chili (optional) If you want mild samosas that are safe for kids, leave this out. If your family likes heat, add more.
1 tsp. cumin powder
1 teaspoon of coriander powder
½ teaspoon of turmeric powder
½ teaspoon of garam masala
Add salt to taste.
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (to cook the filling)
To Put Together and Cook
1 package (about 16–20) of pre-made samosa wrappers or spring roll wrappers You can find these in the freezer section or the international aisle. Follow the directions on the package to thaw before using.
A small bowl of water (to seal the edges)
Oil for frying (about 2 to 3 inches in a deep pot) OR oil for brushing (if you’re baking)
What You Need
Important:
- A big frying pan or skillet
- Fork or potato masher
- A big bowl for mixing
- A small bowl of water to seal
- A deep pot or Dutch oven if you’re frying OR a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (if baking)-taste.baking) Tongs or a slotted spoon
Helpful but Not Required:– Instanbaking) Required: Instantt Pot or microwave (to cook potatoes faster)
- Air fryer (the healthiest way to cook)
Where to Get Samosa Wrappers
Look in these places at your grocery store:-Required: Instantstore: The freezer section is next to the egg rolls and spring rolls.
- International foods aisle (Asian or Indian section)- Specialtstore: —Specialtyy Asian grocery stores usually have the best selection.—Specialty.
Spring roll wrappers are a delicious, excellent alternative because they are easier to find and make the food light and crispy.
Step-by-Step Directions
First, get the potatoes ready (10 minutes).minutes).
Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes and peel them. Use your favorite method to cook until soft:
On the stove: Boil in salted water for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a fork goes through easily.
Microwave: Put in a bowl that can go in the microwave with 2 tablespoons of water, cover it, and microwave for 8 to 10 minutes.
Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then let it go quickly.
Drain well and mash with a fork or potato masher until they are about the same size. You want some texture, not a completely smooth surface like mashed potatoes.
Tip: Don’t cook the potatoes too long. They should be soft but not too wet. Too much moisture makes the filling soggy and harder to work with.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics for 3 to 4 Minutes
Put 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet and heat it over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it is soft and clear.
If you’re using green chili, add the ginger-garlic paste and the green chili. Sauté for another minute, or until the smell is strong.
Pro Tip: Let the edges of the onions get a little golden. This will make the filling taste sweeter and richer.
Step 3: Toast the spices for one minute.
Put the coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, and garam masala in the pan.
Stir the spices constantly and cook for about a minute, or until they smell delicious (10–12). Excellent! Excellent! As the oils come out, you’ll smell them “bloom.”
Tip: For this step, keep the heat at medium-low. Spices can burn quickly, making them taste bitter instead of sweet.
Step 4: Make the Filling (3–4 Minutes)
Put the spiced onion mixture in a bowl with the mashed potatoes and frozen peas.
Mix everything together well, making sure that the spices cover all of the potatoes evenly.
Stir the peas constantly while they cook for 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors mix and the peas warm up.
Add salt to taste. Add the fresh cilantro and stir.
Take it off the heat and let the filling cool for 5 to 10 minutes before putting it together.
Tip: You can’t touch the filling until it has cooled down! Hot filling rips the wrappers and makes it almost impossible to shape. If you’re in a hurry, put it on a plate to cool it down faster.
Step 5: Shape the Samosas (10 Minutes)
One wrapper at a time (keep the rest covered with a damp paper towel so they don’t dry out):
- If you’re using square wrappers, cut them diagonally to make triangles or fold them into a cone shape.
- Put 1 to 2 tablespoons of filling in the middle.
- Fold the wrapper around the filling and press the edges together to seal.
- To help the edges stick, dip your finger in water and run it along them.
- Press down hard to get rid of any air pockets.
Tip: Don’t fill it too much! You might want to add more filling, but samosas that are too full are hard to seal and often pop while cooking. Less is more in this case.
Step 6: Cook until it’s golden brown.
Pick a Way to Cook:
Option A: Deep Frying (The Most Common Way)—Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the samosas in groups of three or four (don’t put too many in at once!).
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, turning them every so often, until they are golden brown all over.
- Take out with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels
Option B: Baking (Better for you)—Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Put the samosas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly brush all sides with oil
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the food is golden and crunchy.
Option C: Air frying (the fastest and healthiest way)—Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) before you start cooking.
- Put the samosas in a single layer (do this in batches). – Lightly brush or spray with oil.
- Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
Pro Tip: Keep the oil temperature the same when frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the wrapper is done cooking. If they get too cool, they soak up oil and get soggy.
Step 7: Serve hot with sauces for dipping.
Warm samosas with your favorite dipping sauces.
Classic Pairings:
- Tamarind chutney (sweet and sour)
- Chutney with mint and cilantro (fresh and cool) • Sweet chili sauce (an easy option from the store)
- Ketchup (kids love it!)
- Yogurt with a little bit of cumin
— Tips for storing and making ahead
Plan Ahead
Get the filling ready up to two days ahead: Prepare the potato-pea filling, let it cool down completely, and then put it in the fridge in a container that won’t let air in. Let it cool to room temperature before putting it together and cooking it.
Prepare ahead of time: You can shape the samosas up to four hours before you cook them. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and chill until ready to cook.
How to Use the Freezer
Put uncooked samosas in the freezer: Put the shaped, uncooked samosas on a baking sheet in a single layer. Put in the freezer until solid (about 2 hours), then move to a bag that can go in the freezer. You can freeze it for up to three months.
Cook from frozen: No need to thaw! No matter how you cook it, add 2 to 3 minutes. You can fry at a lower temperature (325°F) or bake at a higher temperature (375°F) for 20 to 25 minutes.
Keeping in the Fridge
You can keep cooked samosas in the fridge for 3 to 4 days in a container that doesn’t let air in. Put it back in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 8 minutes to make it crispy again. The microwave works, but it makes them soft.
Sweet Potato Samosas: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes to make the filling a little sweeter and more colorful.
Extra Veggie: Add corn kernels, finely chopped carrots, or cauliflower to the filling.
Spicy Version: For people who like it spicy, add more green chilies or a little bit of red chili powder.
Cheesy Twist: For more richness, add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or paneer cubes to the filling.
Tangy Kick: For a traditional tangy flavor, add ½ teaspoon of amchur (dry mango powder) to the filling.
Information about Nutrition
For each samosa, the nutritional values vary depending on the baking method used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
Fried samosas will be higher in fat and calories.
Questions That Are Often Asked
Is it possible to bake these quick vegetarian samosas instead of frying them?
Of course! Baking is a better and less messy choice. Brush a little oil on all sides of your assembled samosas and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but they taste excellent and are much lighter.
How long do samosas made with potatoes and peas last?
You can keep cooked samosas in the fridge for 3 to 4 days if you put them in an airtight container. To get the best texture, heat them up in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 8 minutes to make them crisp again. Reheating in the microwave works, but it makes the wrapper soft instead of crispy.
How can I seal samosa wrappers the fastest?
Using a little water is the quickest and most reliable way. After putting in the filling, dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Then press down hard to make a tight seal. This stops the filling from leaking while it’s cooking. Check to see if there are any air pockets inside.
Can you freeze these quick vegetarian samosas?
Yes, they freeze very well! For the best results, freeze uncooked samosas. Place them on a baking sheet until they are solid, then put them in a freezer bag. They can last for three months. You can cook from frozen, but it will take a little longer. You can also freeze cooked samosas, but they won’t be as crispy when you reheat them.
What kinds of dips go well with potato and pea samosas?
Tamarind chutney, which is tangy, and mint-cilantro chutney, which is refreshing, are two common options. Sweet chili sauce and mango chutney are excellent choices if you want something easier. Kids always love plain ketchup! Another tasty and cool choice is a simple yogurt dip with a little cumin and salt.
Last Thoughts
These Quick Vegetarian Samosas show that you don’t have to spend hours making great snacks. You can make golden, crispy triangles filled with perfectly spiced potatoes and peas in just 30 minutes with things you probably already have at home.
The shortcut of using pre-made wrappers is truly revolutionary. You get all the satisfaction of making samosas at home without the hassle of making the dough. Make a batch this weekend and freeze the leftovers. Then, whenever you want a snack, you’ll have some ready to cook.
Your family will love these. Prepare for empty plates and people asking for “more, please!”
*Do you like quick snacks that are good for the whole family? Look through our selection of simple snacks and kid-friendly treats that will make any day special!








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