Samosa

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, ajwain, and 1 tsp salt. Add 4 tablespoons of ghee or oil and mix well until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water and knead into a firm, smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for at least 20 minutes.

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onion and saute until translucent. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder, cooking for 30 seconds.

Add the boiled and mashed potatoes and green peas to the pan. Season with salt to taste and garam masala. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the spices are well incorporated with the potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped coriander leaves. Let the filling cool completely.

Divide the rested dough into equal small balls. Roll each ball into an oval shape, about 6-7 inches long. Cut each oval in half to create two semi-circles. Lightly moisten the straight edge of one semi-circle with water.

Bring the moistened straight edges together to form a cone shape, pressing firmly to seal. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled potato filling into the cone. Moisten the open edges of the cone with water and carefully pinch them together to seal the samosa, creating a triangular shape. Ensure a tight seal to prevent filling from coming out during frying.

Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-low heat. The oil should not be too hot, as this will prevent the samosas from cooking through and becoming crispy. Gently slide the shaped samosas into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes per batch.

Remove the fried samosas with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite chutney, such as mint chutney or tamarind chutney, or with ketchup. Enjoy these authentic Pakistani appetizers!