Ingredients

For the Samosas:

• 3 potatoes
• Water (for boiling)
• 5g salt (1 tsp)
• 80g corn starch
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Oil (for frying)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 20g butter
• 5g corn starch (1 tsp)
• 120ml milk
• 4 cheese slices (processed cheese or cheddar)
• Chopped dill (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. Peel and cut 3 potatoes into small chunks.
2. Place the potatoes in a saucepan and add enough water to cover them. Add 5g salt (1 tsp).
3. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Once they are cooked, drain the water and mash the potatoes using a fork or potato masher. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with 80g corn starch.
2. Add black pepper to taste, and mix the ingredients until a dough-like consistency forms. The starch will help bind the potatoes and create a firm dough.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each one into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc shape, about the size of your palm.

Step 3: Fry the Samosas

1. Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan or pot to submerge the samosas for frying.
2. Carefully place the prepared discs into the hot oil, frying them in batches.
3. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the samosas from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain the excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt 20g butter over medium heat.
2. Add 5g corn starch (1 tsp) and whisk constantly to create a roux (thick paste).
3. Gradually pour in 120ml milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens.
5. Add 4 cheese slices and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. If desired, sprinkle some chopped dill over the sauce for added flavor and garnish.

Step 5: Serve the Samosas with Cheese Sauce

1. Arrange the fried samosas on a serving plate.
2. Serve the cheese sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish with additional chopped dill or parsley, if desired.
4. Enjoy your crispy samosas with the rich, creamy cheese sauce!

Cooking Tips

1. Potato Texture: Make sure your potatoes are fully mashed and smooth, as any large chunks may cause the dough to fall apart during frying.
2. Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the samosas. If the oil is too cold, the samosas will absorb more oil and become greasy. A temperature of around 170°C-180°C (340°F-360°F) is ideal for frying samosas.
3. Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker cheese sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly. For a thinner sauce, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other spices or ingredients to the potato filling, such as cumin, coriander, or peas for added flavor and variety.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the samosas ahead of time and refrigerate them before frying. Fry them just before serving for maximum crispiness.

Storage

Samosas:

• Refrigeration: You can store leftover samosas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until crispy again.
• Freezing: Samosas can be frozen after they are fried. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen in a preheated oven until hot and crispy.

Cheese Sauce:

• Refrigeration: Store the cheese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk if needed to thin the sauce.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg

Note: These values are approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the samosas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the samosas for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and place the samosas on a lined baking sheet. Brush them with a little oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses corn starch instead of wheat flour. Just ensure that the cheese slices and any additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

3. What other dips can I serve with samosas?

In addition to the cheese sauce, samosas pair well with a variety of dips such as chutney, yogurt-based dips, or spicy tomato sauces. You can also serve them with a mint or cilantro chutney for a refreshing contrast.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the samosa filling?

Absolutely! You can customize the filling by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the potato mixture. Just ensure any added vegetables are cooked and mashed or finely chopped for an even texture.

5. How can I make the cheese sauce spicier?

To add a kick to your cheese sauce, stir in some chili flakes or hot sauce while melting the cheese. You can also use a spicier variety of cheese, such as pepper jack, to enhance the heat level.

Conclusion

This Potato Samosa with Cheese Sauce recipe combines the crispy, savory goodness of traditional samosas with the creamy richness of a homemade cheese dip. Whether you’re making these for a special gathering or just for a fun snack, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With the added option of baking instead of frying, you can adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, these samosas are the perfect comfort food that you’ll want to make again and again!