Curry Puff

Curry puffs are delightful, flaky pastries filled with a savory mixture of chicken and potatoes, spiced perfectly to create an explosion of flavors in every bite. These delectable snacks are popular in many cultures, especially in Southeast Asia, where they are often served as appetizers or enjoyed as a quick snack. Made with a flaky pastry and a rich, curried filling, curry puffs are a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, homemade food. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have your friends and family begging for seconds!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Flavorful Filling: The combination of chicken, potatoes, and spices makes for a hearty and satisfying filling.
– Flaky Pastry: The crust is buttery and flaky, providing the perfect contrast to the savory filling.
– Customizable: You can adjust the levels of spice and seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
– Great for Meal Prep: These curry puffs freeze well, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Ingredient Notes

• 15 dried red chilies: Adds heat and depth to the curry filling. Be sure to seed them for a milder flavor.
• 8 shallots: Sweet and aromatic, shallots enhance the overall flavor of the filling.
• 2-3 tablespoons meat curry powder: This is the heart of the flavor profile, so choose a blend you love.
• 5 tablespoons oil: Used for cooking the filling; any neutral oil will work.
• 5 curry leaves: These add a unique fragrance and flavor to the dish.
• 1 kg (2 lb) chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are recommended for easy cutting and cooking.
• 1 kg (2 lb) potatoes: They add substance and creaminess to the filling.
• 500g (1 lb) yellow onions: Diced onions provide sweetness and depth to the filling.
• 125 ml water: To adjust the consistency of the filling.
• Salt and sugar: To taste; these will balance the flavors.
• 1.5 teaspoons salt: For seasoning the filling.
• 335g (11.8 oz) water: For the pastry dough.
• 900g (1.9 lb) all-purpose flour: The base for the pastry dough.
• 340g (11.9 oz) unsalted butter: Adds richness and flakiness to the crust.
• 20g ghee (optional): For added flavor and richness in the pastry.
• 730g (1 lb) flour: For dusting and possibly adjusting the dough consistency.

Equipment & Tools

• Large frying pan: For cooking the filling.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the dough ingredients.
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the pastry dough.
• Cookie cutter or round mold: For cutting out the pastry circles.
• Baking sheet: To place the curry puffs before baking.
• Oven: For baking the curry puffs to golden perfection.

From Start to Finish: Curry Puff

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by soaking the dried red chilies in hot water for about 15 minutes until they soften. Drain and blend them with the shallots and curry powder into a smooth paste.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Potatoes

In a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the blended paste and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Toss in the curry leaves, followed by the chicken pieces. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the yellow onions and potatoes into the pan. Add 125 ml of water, salt, and sugar to taste. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 335g of water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, then wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Curry Puffs

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Roll out the dough on a floured surface until thin. Use a cookie cutter to cut out circles. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork or by pinching them together.

Step 6: Bake the Puffs

Place the assembled curry puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Tailor It to Your Diet

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable curry powder.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the pastry dough.
• Low-Carb Option: Try using almond flour for the dough, though texture may vary.
• Spicy Option: Add more dried red chilies or fresh green chilies to the filling for extra heat.

What Could Go Wrong

• Pastry Too Tough: Overworking the dough can lead to a tough pastry. Keep mixing to a minimum.
• Filling Too Wet: If the filling is too moist, it can leak during baking. Make sure to drain excess moisture.
• Puffs Not Rising: Ensure your butter is cold and that the dough rests properly to achieve flakiness.
• Filling Not Cooked: Always ensure the chicken and potatoes are fully cooked before assembling.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Curry puffs are fantastic for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time, storing each in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Questions People Ask

Can I use different meats for the filling?

Absolutely! You can use ground beef, lamb, or even seafood for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I store leftover curry puffs?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Can I deep-fry curry puffs instead of baking?

Yes! Deep-frying will give the curry puffs an extra crispy texture. Just heat oil in a deep fryer or pot and fry until golden brown.

What can I serve with curry puffs?

They pair beautifully with a variety of dips such as sweet chili sauce, yogurt sauce, or even a tangy tamarind chutney for an extra flavor boost.

Because You Liked This

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• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta In 25 Minutes – A quick and creamy pasta dish that is sure to impress.

The Takeaway

Curry puffs are a delightful dish that showcases the beautiful flavors of spices and tender fillings enveloped in a flaky pastry. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll find endless possibilities for customization, ensuring they cater to your tastes and dietary needs. Whether served at a gathering, as a snack, or as part of a meal, these curry puffs are sure to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!