BEET SAMOSAS

Ayurvedic Spiced Beet Samosas

HISTORY & LORE

Samosas have been a beloved part of Indian cuisine for centuries, with origins tracing back to Central Asia before becoming a staple in Ayurvedic kitchens. Traditionally filled with spiced potatoes and peas, this variation highlights the earthy sweetness of beets, balanced with digestive Ayurvedic spices like cumin, fennel, and turmeric. The result is a crispy, golden pastry with a vibrant, nourishing filling that promotes balance, digestion, and grounding energy. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a light meal, these samosas are a modern take on an ancient culinary treasure.

DETAILS OF THE RECIPE

Ingredients (Makes 12 Samosas)

For the Filling:

• 2 medium beets, roasted, peeled, and finely diced

• 1 medium potato, boiled and mashed

• ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch ginger, grated

• 1 tbsp coconut oil or ghee

• ½ tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory)

• 1 tsp cumin seeds (aids digestion)

• ½ tsp fennel seeds (balances Vata & Pitta)

• ½ tsp coriander powder (cooling, aids digestion)

• ¼ tsp black pepper (boosts absorption)

• ½ tsp Himalayan salt (mineral-rich)

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• ½ tsp lemon juice (adds brightness)

For the Dough:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or a gluten-free alternative)

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 tbsp ghee or coconut oil

• ½ cup warm water (adjust as needed)

For Frying or Baking:

• Ghee or coconut oil (for deep frying)

• OR brush with coconut oil for baking

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add ghee or coconut oil and rub into the flour until crumbly.

2. Gradually add warm water, kneading into a smooth, firm dough. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1. Heat coconut oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin and fennel seeds, letting them sizzle.

2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until golden and fragrant.

3. Stir in turmeric, coriander, and black pepper. Add diced beets, mashed potato, and peas. Cook for 5 minutes.

4. Season with salt, lemon juice, and fresh cilantro. Let cool.

Assemble the Samosas:

1. Divide the dough into 6 balls. Roll each into a thin oval and cut in half.

2. Fold each half into a cone, sealing the edge with water. Fill with 1-2 tbsp of the beet mixture.

3. Seal the top firmly, pressing the edges together.

Cooking Methods:

• For Deep Frying: Heat ghee or coconut oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry samosas until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

• For Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush samosas with coconut oil and bake for 25–30 minutes until crisp and golden.

BUSINESS VALUE

• Cost to Make (per serving of 3 samosas): ~$1.50

• Sales Price (per serving in a café or meal service): $8–$12

• Profit Margin: ~85%

• Scalability: Ideal for Ayurveda-focused cafés, vegan-friendly menus, and catering businesses.

BLUEPRINT RATING

• Flavor Complexity: 10/10 (Earthy beets, warming spices, crispy pastry)

• Healing Properties: 10/10 (Balances doshas, supports digestion, anti-inflammatory)

• Ease of Preparation: 10/10 (Simple techniques, versatile cooking methods)

• Texture & Balance: 10/10 (Crispy shell, soft filling, vibrant flavors)

• Overall Score: 100/100

VISUAL APPEAL

• Plating: Serve samosas on a wooden platter with a side of green chutney and tamarind sauce.

• Photography Tips: Highlight the deep magenta hue of the beet filling by breaking open one samosa.

• Ideal Lighting: Natural, soft lighting with a warm, rustic background enhances the golden crispness of the pastry.

PAIRINGS & SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Drink Pairing: Tulsi ginger tea or a spiced golden milk latte.

• Dipping Sauces: Fresh mint-coriander chutney, tamarind-date chutney, or a cooling yogurt dip.

PRO TIPS & VARIATIONS

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Use a mix of chickpea and rice flour for the dough.

• For Extra Crunch: Add crushed cashews or sunflower seeds to the filling.

• For a Spicier Kick: Add finely chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne.

• For an Air-Fryer Version: Brush with oil and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.

These Ayurvedic spiced beet samosas offer a perfect balance of taste, tradition, and wellness—an ancient recipe reimagined for the modern conscious eater.