How to Make Crispy Nigerian Samosa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Nigerian samosa is one of the most loved snacks in Nigeria. Popular at parties, street stalls, and special gatherings, this delicious pastry is packed with a flavorful filling and wrapped in a thin, crispy crust. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the perfect Nigerian samosa at home, this guide will take you through a foolproof recipe.

From making the perfect samosa dough to preparing a rich, well-spiced filling, let’s dive into everything you need to know!

What is Nigerian Samosa?

Nigerian samosa is a deep-fried snack that consists of a crispy, triangular-shaped pastry filled with a savory mixture of minced meat or vegetables. Though it originated from Indian cuisine, Nigerians have added their own unique twist, making it spicier and more flavorful. It is often served alongside other small chops such as spring rolls and puff-puff at events.

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Ingredients for Nigerian Samosa

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• ½ cup water (adjust as needed)

For the Filling:

• 250g minced beef or chicken (substitute with mixed vegetables for a vegetarian version)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 small carrot (grated or finely chopped)
• ½ cup green peas
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for sealing the edges)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Samosa Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add vegetable oil and mix until the flour looks crumbly.
3. Gradually add water, kneading continuously until you get a smooth, non-sticky dough.
4. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the minced meat and cook until browned.
4. Stir in carrots, peas, and seasonings (curry powder, thyme, chili powder, salt, and black pepper). Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.

Step 3: Roll and Shape the Samosa Wrappers

1. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle (about 6 inches in diameter).
2. Cut each circle in half to form two semi-circles.
3. Make a cornstarch paste by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water.
4. Take one semi-circle, fold it into a cone shape, and seal the edges using the cornstarch paste.
5. Fill the cone with about 1 tablespoon of the prepared filling, then fold over the remaining edge and seal properly.
6. Repeat for the remaining dough and filling.

Step 4: Fry the Samosas

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan until hot (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Fry the samosas in batches, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

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Tips for the Perfect Nigerian Samosa

• Use cold water when making the dough for a crispy texture.
• Let the filling cool completely before assembling to prevent the wrappers from becoming soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to ensure even cooking.
• For a healthier option, you can bake the samosas at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, brushing them with oil beforehand.

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What to Serve with Nigerian Samosa?

Nigerian samosas are best served with a dipping sauce or alongside other popular Nigerian small chops. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Sweet chili sauce – Adds a sweet and spicy kick.
• Zobo drink (hibiscus tea) – A refreshing Nigerian beverage.
• Peppered snails – A spicy and delicious complement to your samosa platter.
• Spring rolls and puff-puff – The ultimate small chops trio!