Curry puffs

curry_puffs

Thai cuisine is famous for its unique blend of flavors, spices, and herbs that result in mouth-watering dishes. One such dish that has gained immense popularity outside of Thailand is Thai Curry Puffs. These scrumptious savory pastries are extremely popular in Southeast Asia and have become a favorite snack for many across the globe.

Thai Curry Puffs are made of crispy puff pastry, encasing a delectable filling of spicy ground meat, vegetables or seafood, mixed with traditional Thai curry paste, coconut milk, and a combination of other spices. The filling and pastry, together, form an indulgent and satisfying treat that is perfect for a quick snack or an appetizer.

The origin of Thai Curry Puffs is believed to be from Southern Thailand – the region that is known for its curries and spicy dishes. The dish is known as ‘Karipap,’ which is a Malay word for curry puffs. It was introduced to Thailand by Malay Muslims who have been living in the southern provinces for centuries. Over time, the recipe has been adapted and refined to create a Thai version, which is now enjoyed by people all over the world.

Thai Curry Puffs are versatile and can be made with a variety of fillings – from chicken, beef, and pork to vegetarian options like potato and mixed vegetables. The curry paste used in the recipe plays a significant role in the overall taste of the curry puffs. The paste is made by blending Thai herbs and spices like lemongrass, galangal, shallots, garlic, and dried red chilies. It brings out the authentic Thai flavors that make these puffs so irresistible.

Another essential ingredient used in the recipe is coconut milk. It adds creaminess and depth to the filling, which complements the spiciness of the curry paste. The coconut milk also helps to tone down the heat from the chilies, making the puffs more enjoyable for those who cannot handle too much spice.

The pastry used in Thai Curry Puffs is flaky and buttery, which complements the hearty filling. The puff pastry can be made from scratch or bought ready-made from the store to save time. It is rolled out and cut into circles, then filled with a generous amount of the filling and folded into a semi-circular shape. The edges are then crimped and sealed to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.

Thai Curry Puffs are typically deep-fried until golden brown or baked in the oven, making them a healthier option. Regardless of the cooking method, the end result is a delicious snack that is crispy on the outside and savory on the inside.

In Thailand, Curry Puffs are often served as street food, and it is not uncommon to see vendors selling them on the sidewalks or in markets. They are also often served as an appetizer in Thai restaurants.

In conclusion, Thai Curry Puffs are a must-try dish that represents the perfect combination of spicy and sweet flavors. It is a hearty, portable snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day, and it is perfect for parties, picnics or even packed lunches. Whether you decide to make it at home or enjoy it at a Thai restaurant, these delicious pastries are guaranteed to leave your taste buds satisfied!

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon red Thai curry paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small sweet potato, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 small carrot, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 12 ready-made puff pastry shells

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

  2. In a large saucepan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the red Thai curry paste, cumin, coriander, and turmeric and stir for about one minute.

  3. Add the onion, sweet potato, carrot, and red bell pepper to the pan and stir for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.

  4. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Remove the pan from the heat, stir in the chopped cilantro and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

  6. Gently spoon the vegetable and curry mixture into the ready-made puff pastry shells, filling to just below the rim.

  7. Place the filled puffs on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.

  8. Allow the puffs to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Thai Curry Puffs!