Meat samosas are one of the most beloved savory snacks across South Asia and the Middle East, offering a crispy, golden exterior and a spiced meat filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. Perfect for festive occasions, afternoon tea, Ramadan iftar spreads, or as a hearty appetizer at parties, these triangle-shaped delights are both comforting and crowd-pleasing.
For the Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
3 tbsp oil or melted ghee
Water, as needed (about ½ cup), to form a firm dough
For the Meat Filling:
1 lb ground beef or lamb
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
½ cup green peas (optional, fresh or frozen)
2 tbsp oil
For Frying:
Vegetable oil, for deep frying
Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the oil or ghee and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead into a firm, smooth dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté for another minute.
Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 7–10 minutes.
Stir in the cumin, garam masala, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add peas if using and cook for 2–3 more minutes.
Turn off the heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Let the filling cool completely before using.
Assemble the Samosas: Divide the dough into 8–10 equal balls. Roll each ball into an oval or circle, then cut in half to form two semi-circles.
Take one semi-circle, fold it into a cone shape, sealing the edge with a little water.
Fill the cone with about 1–2 tablespoons of meat mixture. Moisten the open edge and press to seal tightly. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Fry the Samosas: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat (around 350°F/175°C).
Fry samosas in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy—about 5–6 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.