Cuban-inspired Samosas

Ingredients

While the traditional Indian samosa is typically filled with spiced potatoes and peas, our Cuban-inspired version incorporates Cuban flavors and ingredients. We have replaced the potato filling with a combination of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and plantains, giving it a distinct Cuban flair. The spices used in the filling have also been adjusted to reflect the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Samosa, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
• 1 cup (170g) cooked black beans 1 cup (170g) cooked black beans
• 1 ripe plantain, diced 1 ripe plantain, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 22g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 38g (Sugars: 4g)
• Protein: 26g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef with the spices. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked black beans and diced plantain to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the plantain is tender. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
8. 8.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer. Fry the samosas in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
9. 9.
   Serve the Cuban-inspired samosas hot with your favorite dipping sauce or salsa.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantain — Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin and black spots. They should be firm but not overly ripe for the best texture in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the samosas extra crispy, brush them with a little oil before baking instead of frying.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
• Serve the samosas with a side of fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces such as a spicy tomato salsa or a tangy mango chutney.
• Make a large batch of samosas and freeze them for later. Just reheat in the oven for a quick and delicious snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-inspired samosas as an appetizer or as part of a Cuban-themed meal. They pair well with a side of rice and beans or a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the samosas on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with colorful dipping sauces to add a vibrant touch to your presentation.