Description
This Samosa Pie features a spiced chicken and potato filling enveloped in a golden, flaky puff pastry crust. With aromatic garam masala and turmeric, tender potatoes, and fragrant cilantro, this savory pie captures the essence of Indian samosas in an easy-to-make casserole form. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, it combines robust spices with simple ingredients for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 tbsp ghee or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken or turkey
- 2 tbsp garam masala or curry powder
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1½ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1½ lbs (about 2 medium) russet potatoes, diced
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup minced fresh cilantro
Crust
- 1 sheet thawed puff pastry (about 8–9 oz) or a single pie crust sheet
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the pie once the filling is prepared.
- Cook Onion: In a large stockpot over medium heat, melt the ghee or butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook slowly until golden and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes, to develop deep flavor.
- Add Jalapeño and Garlic: Stir in the finely chopped jalapeño (if using) and minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown Chicken and Spices: Add the ground chicken along with the garam masala, turmeric, and salt. Cook the meat until it turns no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and 1 cup water to the pot. Cover and cook for about 25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Finish Filling: Stir in the green peas and minced fresh cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble Pie: Transfer the chicken and potato mixture into a 2-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Puff Pastry: Lay the thawed puff pastry or pie crust sheet over the filling. Trim any excess overhang and cut a few steam vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake Pie: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for chicken to lighten the dish.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño or omit entirely if you prefer less heat.
- Using garam masala offers a more authentic Indian flavor compared to curry powder.
- Make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely before using for better handling and texture.
- The pie can be made a day ahead; just cover and refrigerate before baking.
- To serve, let the pie cool for 5–10 minutes for easier slicing.