Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala (No Onion No Garlic) – A Delicious Twist on the Classic Snack

Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala (No Onion No Garlic) is a unique take on the traditional Punjabi samosa. This delicious snack adheres to Jain dietary restrictions by eliminating onions and garlic, making it a perfect choice for those who follow Jain vegetarian principles. The crispy outer shell, paired with the savory and spicy potato filling, offers a flavorful experience for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty treat without compromising on their dietary beliefs.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to prepare Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala, its benefits, tips for cooking, comparisons to traditional samosas, and more. Let’s dive into this exciting culinary adventure!

What is Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala?

Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala is a vegetarian snack that features a deep-fried pastry shell filled with a spiced potato mixture. Unlike traditional samosas, which often include onions and garlic, this Jain version avoids these ingredients, while still packing in a punch of flavor. The dish is typically served with tangy chutneys and garnished with fresh coriander for an extra burst of flavor.

Key Ingredients in Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala:

• Refined flour (for the outer dough)
• Boiled potatoes (for the filling)
• Cumin seeds
• Coriander powder
• Cumin powder
• Fennel seeds
• Ginger paste
• Green chilies
• Turmeric powder
• Red chili powder
• Asafoetida (hing)
• Salt to taste

These ingredients come together to form a crispy, flavorful snack that can be enjoyed by all.

Health Benefits of Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala

Rich in Spices with Medicinal Properties

• Cumin: Aids in digestion and helps in detoxification.
• Fennel Seeds: Known for their ability to ease bloating and improve digestion.
• Coriander: A rich source of antioxidants that help in reducing inflammation.
• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Good Source of Carbohydrates

The potato filling provides complex carbohydrates, giving you sustained energy and making Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala a filling snack.

Vegan and Jain-Friendly

By removing onion and garlic, this dish adheres to Jain dietary guidelines and is suitable for vegans, offering a plant-based snack that’s both nutritious and tasty.

How to Make Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala (No Onion No Garlic)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup refined flour (maida)
• 1/2 cup semolina (for extra crispiness)
• 2 large boiled potatoes (mashed)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine refined flour, semolina, and a pinch of salt.
   • Gradually add water to form a smooth, firm dough. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • Heat some oil in a pan and add cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and asafoetida. Let them splutter.
   • Add the mashed potatoes, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for a few minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the potatoes.
   • Set the filling aside to cool.

3. Shape the Samosas:

   • Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a small circle, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter.
   • Cut the circle in half to form a semi-circle. Fold the semi-circle into a cone shape and seal the edges.
   • Stuff the cone with the prepared potato filling and seal the open edges, forming a triangle shape.

4. Fry the Samosas:

   • Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer. Once the oil is hot, gently slide the prepared samosas into the oil.
   • Fry until the samosas turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:

   • Serve Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala hot with tamarind chutney or mint chutney for an extra zing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the samosas in advance. After shaping them, store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped samosas and fry them when needed.

Can I bake the samosas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the samosas in the oven for a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the samosas for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Brush them with a little oil or ghee before baking for a crispier texture.

How can I make Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala spicier?

You can increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder in the filling for a spicier kick. Adjust to your personal taste.

Cooking Tips for Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala

• Rest the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for at least 20 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out and shape the samosas.
• Proper Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is too hot, the samosas will burn; if it’s too cold, they will absorb excess oil.
• Add Extra Filling: You can add a variety of fillings to Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala, such as peas, carrots, or even paneer (if you prefer).
• Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges of the samosa tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala vs. Traditional Samosa

Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala is a healthier, lighter version of the traditional samosa, ideal for those adhering to Jain principles or those who prefer to avoid onion and garlic. The traditional samosa offers a richer flavor, thanks to the use of onions and garlic, but it can be heavier due to the added oil.

Seasonal and Holiday Favorites

Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala is perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Festivals: A great addition to Jain festivals like Diwali, Paryushana, or Navratri, when food restrictions are observed.
• Rainy Season: Enjoy these crispy samosas with a hot cup of tea during the monsoon months.
• Winter Comfort Food: The warmth and crunch of samosas make them ideal for cozy winter gatherings.

Impact of Food Waste on the Environment

Food waste is a significant global issue, contributing to numerous environmental problems:

• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Wasted food produces methane gas, which is harmful to the environment and contributes to climate change.
• Water Wastage: It takes large amounts of water to produce food, and wasting food leads to unnecessary water usage.
• Deforestation and Land Degradation: More food production leads to deforestation, damaging ecosystems and biodiversity.

How Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala Helps Reduce Food Waste

By using leftover vegetables and grains in the filling, Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala helps reduce food waste in the kitchen. You can use any leftover veggies you have to make the filling more sustainable and avoid wasting food.

Conclusion

Jain Punjabi Samosa Masala (No Onion No Garlic) is a delightful, healthy, and Jain-friendly snack that can be enjoyed by anyone. It provides a delicious alternative to the traditional samosa, adhering to the dietary principles of Jainism, and is perfect for a variety of occasions.