Air Fryer Samosas: A Healthy Twist On A Classic

Samosas are a popular Indian snack or appetiser, but frying them can be messy and time-consuming. Air fryers offer a convenient alternative, producing samosas with a crispy texture and golden finish, without the need for large amounts of oil. The air fryer is also great for heating up frozen food, making it a quick and easy option for those short on time.

How long to cook samosas in an air fryer

The cooking time for samosas in an air fryer depends on the number of samosas in the basket and the size of the samosas. For example, one source says that their air fryer can hold 6 medium-sized samosas, but if your basket is smaller, you should cook them in smaller batches.

For non-frozen samosas, one source recommends cooking them at 180°C/355°F for 4 minutes, turning them at the 2-minute mark, then cooking them at 200°C/400°F for 2 minutes, turning at the 1-minute mark. If your air fryer has a grill function, you can grill them for 1 minute on each side.

For frozen samosas, the same source recommends cooking them at 180°C/355°F for 6 minutes, turning at the 3-minute mark, then cooking them at 200°C/400°F for 2 minutes, turning at the 1-minute mark. Again, if your air fryer has a grill function, you can grill them for 1 minute on each side.

Other sources recommend cooking frozen samosas for 9-10 minutes in an air fryer preheated to 200°C, flipping them after 5 minutes. Another source recommends cooking frozen samosas for 11 minutes at 380°F, turning them halfway through.

It's important to note that air fryers can vary, so you may need to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

What temperature to cook samosas in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook samosas in an air fryer. Here are some tips on how to get the best results:

Temperature and Timing:

• For non-frozen samosas, cook at 180°C/355°F until they're 80% done, and then increase to 200°C/400°F to finish.
• For frozen samosas, some sources suggest cooking at 180°C/360°F for 6 minutes, while others recommend 380°F for 11 minutes, turning halfway through.
• If you want your samosas extra crispy, increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
• If you are reheating samosas, cook at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.

Other Tips:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket—leave space between the samosas to allow hot air to circulate.
• Brush the samosas with oil before cooking to prevent them from drying out.
• Flip the samosas halfway through the cooking time.
• If you are cooking meat or poultry samosas, check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F/74°C.

How to stop samosas from sticking to the air fryer basket

To prevent samosas from sticking to the air fryer basket, you can try the following:

• Use a spray bottle filled with extra virgin olive oil to spray the samosas before cooking.
• Alternatively, brush the samosas with oil before air frying.
• If you want to avoid using oil, you can line the basket with a piece of parchment paper or aluminium foil. Poke a few holes in the paper or foil to allow air to circulate.
• If you are making your own samosas, you can prevent sticking by making sure the dough is not too wet.

How to reheat samosas in an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat samosas in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the leftover samosas in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with a little space between them.
• Reheat the samosas for 3-5 minutes. If they are not crispy enough, you can increase the temperature to 380°F (190°C) and air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
• Check that the samosas have reached the desired level of crispness and warmth. If not, return to the air fryer for an additional minute or two.
• Serve the samosas with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

It is important to note that if your samosas have a meat filling, they should only be reheated once.

What to serve with samosas

Samosas are delicious on their own, but serving them with side dishes can enhance their flavour and make your meal more enjoyable. Here are some ideas for what to serve with samosas:

Dips and Chutneys

Samosas are often served with dips and chutneys. Popular options include mint chutney, tamarind chutney, mango chutney, and sweet and sour sauce. These dips add a burst of flavour and can help balance the spiciness of the samosas.

Salads

A fresh salad can complement the richness of the samosas. Try a simple tomato and onion salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or a chickpea salad made with onions, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing.

Breads

Naan bread is a great side dish to samosas as it is perfect for dipping into chutneys or raita. Other bread options include tortilla wraps or pita bread.

Indian Dishes

Samosas can be served with other Indian dishes such as vegetable biryani, vegetable pakoras, aloo gobi, or palak paneer. These dishes provide a diverse and satisfying appetizer or main course.

Drinks

Masala chai, a spiced tea made with black tea, milk, sugar, and spices, is a comforting drink to pair with samosas. It offers a soothing accompaniment to the bold flavours of the samosas.

Frequently asked questions