How to Make Mutton Samosa (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mutton Samosa is a beloved Malaysian snack that perfectly captures the essence of our vibrant multicultural cuisine. Popular at Ramadan bazaars and family gatherings, these golden parcels are filled with aromatic minced mutton, fresh herbs, and a medley of local spices. The fusion of Indian Muslim culinary influences with Malaysian twists like daun ketumbar (coriander leaves) and rempah (spice blend) makes this dish truly unique to our local food culture. This healthy mutton samosa recipe is thoughtfully crafted for those who want to enjoy traditional Malaysian flavors without excessive calories. Instead of deep-frying, we use an air fryer or oven bake method to reduce oil, making it lighter yet just as crunchy. The filling is rich in flavor—spiced with cumin, coriander, and a hint of cili padi (bird's eye chili) for heat—complemented by the freshness of bawang besar (onion) and daun sup (Chinese celery), offering a truly authentic Malaysian taste. Whether served during tea time or as a snack for special occasions, this mutton samosa is sure to delight.
Ingredients
- 150g Minced mutton (daging kambing cincang)
- 6 sheets Samosa pastry sheets (kulit samosa, thin style)
- 1/2 medium Yellow onion (bawang besar, finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (bawang putih, minced)
- 1 cm Ginger (halia, minced)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder (serbuk ketumbar)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin powder (serbuk jintan)
- 1 Bird's eye chili (cili padi, finely chopped)
- 1/4 small Carrot (grated, for texture and nutrition)
- 2 tbsp Coriander leaves (daun ketumbar, chopped)
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/8 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Olive oil (or minyak masak, for sautéing)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Sauté bawang besar, bawang putih, and halia until soft and fragrant.
Step 2 · Add minced mutton to the pan
Add minced mutton to the pan. Stir-fry until the meat changes color and any excess moisture evaporates.
Step 3 · Sprinkle in serbuk ketumbar
Sprinkle in serbuk ketumbar, serbuk jintan, black pepper, and salt. Add cili padi and grated carrot if using. Mix well and cook for another 3 minutes.
Step 4 · Remove pan from heat
Remove pan from heat. Fold in chopped daun ketumbar. Allow the filling to cool completely.
Step 5 · Take one kulit samosa sheet
Take one kulit samosa sheet, place a spoonful of filling at one end, and fold into a neat triangle. Seal edge with a dab of water. Repeat for all sheets.
Step 6 · Arrange samosas in a single layer in an air fryer basket or on a li...
Arrange samosas in a single layer in an air fryer basket or on a lined baking tray. Spray lightly with oil. Air fry or bake at 180°C for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7 · Let samosas cool for a minute before serving with fresh coriander c...
Let samosas cool for a minute before serving with fresh coriander chutney or your favorite dipping sauce.
Why this recipe is healthy
By air frying or baking instead of deep-frying, this samosa recipe is much lower in saturated fat, making it ideal for calorie-conscious eaters. The use of fresh herbs and vegetables increases vitamin content, while lean mutton adds essential protein for muscle maintenance and satiety. This adaptation allows you to enjoy authentic Malaysian flavors without compromising your health.
A note on tradition
Mutton samosa is a staple snack in Malaysia's Indian Muslim (Mamak) community, especially during festive seasons like Hari Raya and Ramadan. Often found at pasar malam and bazaar Ramadan, it highlights the blend of Indian and Malay flavors. Samosa is typically enjoyed with teh tarik or kopi o during casual gatherings, making it an integral part of Malaysian social and culinary life.