5 Easy Steps for Perfect Masala Puri

Making Masala Puri, a beloved Indian street food, is an art form that combines the aromatic spices with the right techniques. This dish, with its golden, crisp puris and spicy, flavorful filling, is not just a treat to the palate but also a delightful experience for any home cook. Here, we'll walk through 5 easy steps to create the perfect Masala Puri at home. Let's dive in!

Ingredients and Preparation

Before you start, ensure you have all the ingredients at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour for puris
• ¹⁄₂ cup all-purpose flour for puris
• ¹⁄₄ tsp salt
• Water for kneading dough
• Oil for deep frying
• For the masala:
• 1 cup dried white peas (safed vatana)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ¹⁄₂ tsp cumin powder
• ¹⁄₂ tsp red chili powder
• ¹⁄₂ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp amchur (dry mango powder)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Soak the white peas for at least 8 hours or overnight. Once soaked, boil them until they are soft, which should take about 20-30 minutes.

Making the Dough for Puris

To make the puri:

1. Mix the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Gradually add water and knead until you get a firm dough. The dough should not be too soft or too hard.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period will help in softening the dough and making it more pliable.

🌟 Note: A well-rested dough makes for puris that are easier to roll and puff up nicely when fried.

Preparing the Masala

Now, let’s focus on creating the masala:

• In a pan, heat some oil and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
• Add chopped green chilies and ginger-garlic paste, sauté until fragrant.
• Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
• Mix in the chopped tomato and cook until it turns mushy.
• Add all the spice powders, mix well, and cook for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
• Add the boiled peas along with water to adjust consistency.
• Cook on a medium-low flame until everything is well combined and the masala is thick.

Rolling and Frying the Puris

Time to make those golden puris:

1. Divide the dough into small, lemon-sized balls.
2. Roll each ball into a small circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter. Ensure they are rolled evenly for uniform puffing.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Once hot, gently slide in a puri.
4. Fry until it puffs up, then turn over to ensure it’s golden on both sides. Ensure the oil isn’t too hot to avoid burning the puri before it puffs up.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.

💡 Note: If the puris don’t puff, they might need a slight press with a slotted spoon as they enter the hot oil.

Assembling and Serving

This is where the magic happens:

1. Take a plate, and arrange the crisp puris.
2. Place some warm masala on the puris.
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and optionally with chopped onions, sev (fried gram flour noodles), or a squeeze of lime.

The essence of Masala Puri lies in its simplicity and the fresh burst of flavors. This dish is perfect for snacks, evening tea time, or even as a light meal. The combination of the spicy, tangy filling with the warm, fluffy puris offers a culinary experience that's both comforting and exhilarating. Enjoy this delightful treat with your family or friends, and it's sure to become a frequent demand at your gatherings!

What are the key spices for Masala Puri?

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The key spices that give Masala Puri its distinctive flavor include cumin, coriander, red chili, turmeric, and amchur (dry mango powder). These spices provide both warmth and a tangy zest, enhancing the overall taste.

Can I make Masala Puri in advance?

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The masala can be made in advance and refrigerated, but for the best experience, fry the puris right before serving to ensure they remain crisp. However, you can pre-make the dough and roll the puris just before frying.

Is Masala Puri a healthy snack?

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Masala Puri, while delicious, is best enjoyed in moderation due to deep-frying. However, using whole wheat flour for the puris and minimizing oil can make it somewhat healthier. Additionally, the peas in the masala provide some fiber and nutrients.

How can I adjust the spice level?

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To adjust the spice level in Masala Puri, modify the amount of green chilies and red chili powder. For a milder version, use less chili, or omit them entirely, and for a spicier experience, increase the amount gradually to suit your taste.