Few foods carry as much cultural history and universal appeal as the samosa. Today, it’s a beloved snack across the globe, and in Newmarket, locals enjoy some of the best at The Samosa Master in Newmarket Plaza. But where did the samosa come from, and how did it make its way to North America?
The samosa traces its roots back to the Middle East around the 13th century, where it was a popular snack among merchants and travellers. Its portability, savoury fillings, and flaky pastry made it perfect for long journeys. As trade routes expanded, the samosa travelled to the Indian subcontinent, where it was embraced, adapted, and transformed into the spiced, vegetable- or meat-filled treat we recognize today.
By the time it became a staple in South Asian cuisine, the samosa had cemented its place as both street food and a celebratory dish, enjoyed at gatherings, festivals, and family meals.
The samosa likely arrived in North America during the mid-to-late 20th century, brought by immigrants from South Asia who carried their food traditions with them. By the 1970s and 1980s, Indian restaurants and grocery stores in major cities began offering samosas, quickly winning over new audiences. Today, they’re enjoyed across Canada as a go-to snack, appetizer, or even main course.
At The Samosa Master, the tradition of this centuries-old dish continues. Their menu includes classics like beef, chicken, veggie, and Punjabi samosas, along with unique fillings such as potato with cottage cheese, spinach with cottage cheese, and lamb. Customers can order by the dozen for family gatherings or try Mix and Match platters to sample different varieties.
But The Samosa Master doesn’t stop at samosas. They also serve paratha, pakora, tikki, momos, chaats, poutine, and indulgent desserts like kulfi, milk cake, and kaju katli. Plus, their shelves are stocked with South Asian groceries, spices, rice, and teas for those who want to bring authentic flavours into their own kitchens.
From its humble beginnings as a traveller’s snack on Middle Eastern trade routes to its arrival in Canadian kitchens, the samosa has been on a centuries-long journey. At The Samosa Master, that tradition is celebrated daily, bringing authentic flavours and fresh, handmade quality to the community in Newmarket.
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