Homemade Indian Puffs: A Traditional Snack Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, plus more for frying
  • 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion
  • 1 cup of mashed potatoes
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala
  • 1/4 teaspoon of red chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh coriander, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
  2. Add water gradually to the flour mixture, kneading as you go, until you have a smooth, pliable dough.
  3. Add the vegetable oil to the dough and knead once more. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set aside for 30 minutes.
  4. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
  5. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
  6. Add the cumin seeds and chopped green chili to the pan and sauté for another minute.
  7. Add the mashed potatoes, turmeric, garam masala, and red chili powder to the pan. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped coriander. Set the filling aside to cool.
  9. Once the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized balls.
  10. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, place a spoonful of the potato mixture in the middle, then fold the dough over to encase the filling and seal the edges.
  11. Heat more oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the puffs a few at a time and fry until golden brown on all sides.
  12. Remove the puffs with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the dough and prepare the filling.
  • Frying Pan - A deep frying pan to fry the puffs in oil.
  • Rolling Pin - A tool used to roll out the dough into thin circles.
  • Slotted Spoon - A utensil with slots to remove the puffs from the hot oil.
  • Knife - A sharp knife to chop the onion, green chili, and coriander.
  • Spatula - A kitchen tool used for flipping and turning the puffs while frying.
  • Paper Towels - Absorbent sheets to drain excess oil from the fried puffs.

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier crust.
  • Add spices such as coriander powder, fennel seeds, or curry powder to the filling for extra flavor.
  • Include finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers in the filling.
  • Replace the mashed potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different twist.
  • Add grated cheese to the filling for a cheesy puff option.
  • Make a meat version by adding cooked and shredded chicken, beef, or lamb to the filling.
  • Make a vegan version by using vegetable oil instead of ghee or butter, and skipping the dairy-based ingredients.
  • Add a touch of lemon juice or amchur powder to the filling for a tangy flavor.
  • Experiment with different dipping sauces such as mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup.
  • Make mini puffs by using smaller portions of dough and filling, perfect for appetizers or party snacks.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Indian Puffs recipe! This delightful snack is a popular street food found throughout many parts of India. Not only are they simple to make, but they offer a delectable combination of flavors and textures that are sure to delight your taste buds. Indian Puffs are essentially fried dumplings filled with a mildly spiced potato mixture. In this recipe, we'll guide you through the process of preparing the dough, making the filling, and perfectly frying the puffs to achieve a golden, crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior. With a mix of classic Indian spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, these puffs are full of flavor. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or even a light lunch, these versatile puffs are deliciously satisfying. Stay tuned as we take you step-by-step through this delightful recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, the texture and taste of the puffs may be slightly different compared to using all-purpose flour.
  2. Can I make the dough in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling and filling the puffs.
  3. Can I bake the puffs instead of frying?
    While traditionally Indian puffs are deep-fried, you can try baking them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the puffs with oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  4. Can I freeze the puffs?
    Yes, you can freeze the puffs before frying. Once you have filled and sealed the dough, place the unbaked puffs on a tray lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to use, fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
  5. What can I serve with Indian puffs?
    Indian puffs are typically enjoyed on their own as a snack or appetizer. However, you can serve them with a side of mint chutney or tamarind chutney for added flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough into thin circles.
  • Frying pan - A deep pan used for frying the puffs.
  • Slotted spoon - Used to remove the fried puffs from the hot oil.
  • Paper towels - Used to drain excess oil from the fried puffs.
  • Large bowl - For mixing the dough.
  • Pan - Used for sautéing the filling ingredients.
  • Knife - To chop the onions, green chili, and coriander.

Origin stories

Indian Puffs, also known as Aloo Samosa, have an intricate history that traces back to the Middle East. The word 'Samosa' is said to have originated from the Persian term 'Sanbosag.' It made its way to India through the trade routes around the 13th or 14th century. The Indian interpretation, particularly in the North, embraced this delightful snack, filling it with a spicy blend of mashed potatoes and spices, wrapped in a crispy, flaky envelope of dough. Over the years, it has become a staple in Indian households, enjoyed as a savoury snack with a cup of Chai, especially during the monsoon season. It is also a beloved street food item, often served with tangy tamarind chutney or green mint chutney. Despite its humble origins, the Indian Puff, in all its spicy, crispy glory, has found its way into the hearts of people around the globe, thereof showcasing the rich culinary tapestry of India.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.