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The Best Oven Baked Curry Puffs – Scruff & Steph

Curry puffs are a beloved snack in many cultures, particularly in Southeast Asia. These delightful pastries, filled with a fragrant curried filling, are traditionally deep-fried, but oven-baking offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavour or texture. In this article, we will explore how Scruff & Steph have perfected the art of oven-baked curry puffs, offering a recipe that is both accessible and utterly delicious.

What Makes Scruff & Steph’s Curry Puffs Stand Out?

Scruff & Steph are known for their commitment to creating dishes that are not only tasty but also manageable for home cooks of all skill levels. Their approach to oven-baked curry puffs is no different. The best curry puffs should be crispy on the outside, with a moist and flavourful filling on the inside. Scruff & Steph have mastered this balance, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free version of a classic treat.

The Pastry: Flaky and Delicious

One of the standout features of these curry puffs is the pastry. Scruff & Steph’s recipe uses a simple yet effective method that ensures a light, flaky texture. Here’s how to prepare the pastry:

Ingredients:

• 200g all-purpose flour
• 100g cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 5-6 tbsp cold water

Method:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
3. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This rest period allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a much flakier pastry.

The Filling: A Symphony of Flavours

The filling is where the magic happens. Scruff & Steph recommend using potatoes and peas as the base, complemented by a fragrant mix of spices that will make your taste buds dance. Here’s how to prepare the filling:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

Method:

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, cooking until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute before adding the spices. Cook until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked potatoes and peas, mashing slightly to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the filling to cool before using it in the pastry.

Assembling the Curry Puffs

Once your pastry and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble the curry puffs:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thick. Cut out circles using a pastry cutter or the rim of a glass.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the centre of each circle. Fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape, sealing the edges by crimping them with a fork.
4. Place the filled curry puffs on a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little beaten egg or milk for a golden finish.

Baking to Perfection

Bake the curry puffs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The aromas wafting from the oven will have you counting down the minutes until you can take that first bite.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the oven-baked curry puffs warm, with a side of sweet chilli sauce or a cooling cucumber raita to balance the spices. They make for an excellent party snack, a fantastic appetiser, or a hearty addition to any meal.

Conclusion

Scruff & Steph have truly nailed the recipe for oven-baked curry puffs, making them a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in this delectable treat without the guilt of deep-frying. With their flaky pastry and flavourful filling, these curry puffs are sure to impress family and friends alike. So why not give this healthy yet scrumptious recipe a go? You won’t be disappointed!

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