What Is a Samosa?

A samosa is a stuffed pastry and a popular snack in South Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, throughout the Mediterranean (Greece), Southwest Asia, the Horn of Africa, North Africa and South Africa. It generally consists of a fried or baked triangular, semi-lunar or tetrahedral pastry shell with a savory filling, which may include spiced potatoes, onions, peas, coriander, and lentils, or ground beef or chicken.

The size and shape of a samosa as well as the consistency of the pastry used can vary considerably, although it is mostly triangular. Samosas are often served with tamarind chutney or curd.

Samosas are yummy — crunchy and flavorsome — but they are also packed with high-kilojoule fats. One samosa has the same kilojoule value as a plate of wholesome, tasty food.

A large fried mutton samosa, 150mm x 150mm, has 3677kj.

On the other hand,

• 120g fillet steak with 1 large mushroom drizzled with olive oil and grilled
• a mixed green salad (2 cups) with
• ¼ small avo (30g) and
• 1 tablespoon of low-fat salad dressing plus
• 1 large (285g) baked sweet potato topped with
• ½ cup of fat-free smooth cottage cheese and fresh coriander