Curry Puff
Curry puffs are a delightful snack that transports you to the bustling streets of Southeast Asia with every bite. Crispy on the outside and filled with a savory, spiced filling of chicken and potatoes, these little pockets of goodness are perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself. Whether served as an appetizer or a party snack, curry puffs are sure to impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have your kitchen smelling amazing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Curry puffs are not just tasty; they also offer a unique blend of flavors and textures. The flaky pastry envelops a warm, aromatic filling that’s packed with spices. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling to your liking, and it’s perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase your culinary skills while impressing your guests with a homemade treat!
Ingredients at a Glance
- For the filling:
- 15 dried red chilies, seeded
- 8 shallots, peeled
- 2-3 tablespoons meat curry powder
- 5 tablespoons oil
- 5 curry leaves
- 1 kg (2 lb) chicken, breasts preferred, cut into small pieces
- 1 kg (2 lb) potatoes, cut into small pieces
- 500 g (1 lb) yellow onions, peeled and diced
- 125 ml water
- Salt, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- For the pastry:
- 900 g (1.9 lb) all-purpose flour
- 340 g (11.9 oz) unsalted butter
- 20 g (0.7 oz) ghee, optional
- 335 g (11.8 oz) water
Before You Start: Equipment
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the filling and dough.
- Rolling pin: To roll out the pastry dough to the desired thickness.
- Sharp knife: For cutting the dough and vegetables.
- Frying pan: To cook the filling over medium heat.
- Baking sheet: For placing the curry puffs before baking.
- Oven: To bake the curry puffs to golden perfection.
Curry Puff — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by soaking the dried red chilies in warm water for about 15 minutes until they soften. Drain and blend them with the shallots to create a smooth paste.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the blended chili and shallot paste, and sauté until fragrant. Add the curry leaves, diced yellow onions, and cook until the onions are translucent.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Potatoes
Stir in the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink. Then, add the potatoes, meat curry powder, water, salt, and sugar. Mix well and cover the pan. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 4: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle on a floured surface, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
Step 6: Fill the Pastry
Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, sealing the edges by pressing with your fingers or crimping with a fork.
Step 7: Fry or Bake
To fry, heat oil in a deep pan and fry the curry puffs until golden brown on both sides. For a healthier option, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the curry puffs for about 20-25 minutes or until golden.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
- In hot weather, consider making these curry puffs in smaller sizes for quick snacks.
- During colder months, serve them warm with a side of spicy dipping sauce for a comforting treat.
- Experiment with fillings: try using vegetables, lentils, or even cheese for a different flavor profile.
- For a twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, aromatic touch.
Chef’s Rationale
Curry puffs are a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of flavors in one bite. The combination of chicken and potatoes provides a hearty filling, while the spices elevate the taste, making each puff a delightful experience. Additionally, the versatility of this recipe allows for creativity—feel free to switch up the filling based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Homemade curry puffs are far superior to store-bought, both in flavor and satisfaction!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
Curry puffs are freezer-friendly, making them a great option for meal prep. After assembling the puffs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container for storage. They can be baked or fried directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
Your Questions, Answered
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out.
What can I substitute for chicken in the filling?
You can easily substitute chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based filling.
How do I know when the curry puffs are done frying?
The curry puffs will turn a beautiful golden brown when they are fully cooked. They will also float to the surface of the oil when they are ready to be flipped.
Can I bake the curry puffs instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative. Just ensure they are brushed with a bit of oil or melted butter before placing them in the oven to achieve a golden crust.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Quick Chicken Tacos – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Easy Vegetable Stir-Fry – A colorful, healthy meal.
- One-Pot Pasta – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Simple Chickpea Salad – Wholesome and nutritious.
In closing, making curry puffs from scratch may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, you’ll become a pro in no time. The joy of biting into a perfectly flaky pastry filled with a savory mixture is worth every effort. Whether you serve them at a gathering or indulge in them solo, these curry puffs will surely become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!
Curry Puff
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by soaking the dried red chilies in warm water for about 15 minutes until they soften. Drain and blend them with the shallots to create a smooth paste.
- In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the blended chili and shallot paste, and sauté until fragrant. Add the curry leaves, diced yellow onions, and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink. Then, add the potatoes, meat curry powder, water, salt, and sugar. Mix well and cover the pan. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle on a floured surface, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, sealing the edges by pressing with your fingers or crimping with a fork.
- To fry, heat oil in a deep pan and fry the curry puffs until golden brown on both sides. For a healthier option, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the curry puffs for about 20-25 minutes or until golden.
Notes
- For a quicker snack, make smaller curry puffs.
- Serve warm with a spicy dipping sauce for a comforting treat.
- Experiment with different fillings like lentils or cheese.
