Curry Puffs
Malaysian Curry Puffs Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make
Introduction
Curry puffs are a popular snack in many Southeast Asian countries, known for their delicious and flavorful filling encased in a crispy pastry shell. These savory pastries are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a tasty appetizer for parties and gatherings.
History
The origins of curry puffs can be traced back to Indian cuisine, where similar pastries filled with spicy curried vegetables or meat are a common street food. Over time, this dish has been adapted and modified in various countries, each adding their own unique twist to the recipe.
Ingredients
For filling
- 50 g minced chicken or beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 tbsp curry powder, mixed with 2 tbsp water to make a paste
- 2 potatoes, boiled and diced
- 2 tbsp oil
- 0.25 cup of coconut milk
- salt to taste
How to prepare
- To make the filling ahead of time, heat oil in a pan. Fry diced onions until soft. Add curry powder paste and fry until fragrant. Add minced meat, potatoes, coconut milk, and salt. Cook over low heat until the meat is cooked and the mixture is dry. Remove from heat and drain excess oil. Allow to cool before using.
- To make the pastry, sift flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl. Add margarine/butter and lightly work it into the flour with your fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly. Add beaten egg and water to form a soft dough. Knead for a few minutes.
- Break off half of the dough and roll it out on a floured board to a thickness of half an inch. Cut it into round shapes using a small glass and transfer them onto a floured plate. Roll each circle to the required size and thickness. Fill each circle with the prepared filling, leaving enough space to fold the pastry over. Seal the edges with a fork. Meanwhile, heat enough oil in a wok and deep fry the pastries until they turn golden brown. Drain them on paper towels and serve.
Variations
- Vegetarian curry puffs: Replace the minced beef with tofu or mixed vegetables for a meat-free version.
- Spicy curry puffs: Add chopped chili peppers or chili powder to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
- Sweet curry puffs: Fill the pastry with a sweet filling such as coconut and palm sugar for a dessert version of this dish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to cook the filling until it is dry to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
- Be careful not to overfill the pastry, as it may burst open during frying.
- Use a fork to seal the edges of the pastry to ensure that the filling stays inside while frying.
Serving Suggestions
Curry puffs can be served hot or cold, as a snack or as part of a meal. They pair well with a side of salad or a dipping sauce such as sweet chili sauce or tamarind chutney.
Cooking Techniques
Deep frying: Deep frying the curry puffs gives them a crispy and golden brown exterior while keeping the filling moist and flavorful.
Ingredient Substitutions
Margarine can be used instead of butter for the pastry.
- Ground chicken or pork can be used instead of minced beef for the filling.
Make Ahead Tips
The filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- The pastry dough can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the curry puffs on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or sliced cucumbers for a colorful and appetizing presentation. - Arrange the curry puffs in a decorative pattern on a serving tray for a visually appealing display.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair curry puffs with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting and satisfying snack.
- Serve curry puffs with a side of pickled vegetables or a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover curry puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the curry puffs in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of curry puffs contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of curry puffs contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of curry puffs contains approximately 15g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of curry puffs contains approximately 5g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Curry puffs are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
Curry puffs may contain allergens such as wheat, eggs, and soy.
Summary
Curry puffs are a delicious and satisfying snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a quick meal or snack.
Summary
Curry puffs are a delicious and versatile snack that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a meal. With a crispy pastry shell and a flavorful filling, these savory pastries are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for curry puffs. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Malaysia. My grandmother, who was known throughout the village for her delicious cooking, had a friend who was a master in making these delectable treats.
One day, my grandmother invited her friend over to our humble home to teach her how to make curry puffs. I remember watching in awe as they worked together in the kitchen, filling the air with the delightful aroma of spices and herbs. The friend patiently guided my grandmother through each step, explaining the importance of using fresh ingredients and the perfect balance of flavors.
As they worked, I sat at the kitchen table, my eyes wide with curiosity. I listened intently as they shared stories of their own childhoods, of the traditional methods they had learned from their own mothers and grandmothers. It was a magical experience, watching these two women bond over their love of cooking and their shared passion for creating delicious meals for their families.
When the curry puffs were finally ready, my grandmother's friend handed me one with a smile. I eagerly took a bite and was instantly transported to a world of flavors and textures unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The crispy, flaky pastry gave way to a rich and savory filling of spiced potatoes and minced meat, each bite a symphony of tastes and sensations.
From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make curry puffs, and she happily obliged. Over the following weeks and months, she patiently guided me through the process, showing me how to knead the dough, shape the pastry, and fill it with the delicious curry mixture.
I practiced tirelessly, determined to perfect the art of making curry puffs. I experimented with different spices and ingredients, adding my own twist to the traditional recipe. My grandmother watched with pride as I grew more confident in my abilities, praising me for my dedication and creativity.
Years passed, and I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen. I learned new recipes from friends and neighbors, incorporating elements from different cultures and cuisines into my cooking. But the recipe for curry puffs always held a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I first discovered my passion for cooking.
Today, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of spices and herbs, I am grateful for the lessons my grandmother taught me all those years ago. The recipe for curry puffs has become a beloved tradition in our family, passed down from generation to generation as a symbol of our heritage and shared love of food.
And as I take a bite of a freshly baked curry puff, savoring the familiar flavors that have comforted me for so many years, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the gift of cooking and the memories it has given me. I can only hope that one day, my own grandchildren will experience the same sense of wonder and joy that I felt when I first learned to make this delicious treat.
Categories
| Beef Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Coconut Milk Recipes | Curry Recipes | Malaysian Recipes | Malaysian Snacks | Potato Recipes |