Vegetable Masala Puffs

Vegetable Masala Puffs, also known as Veg Puffs and Curry Puffs can be found with ease at most Indian canteens, cafeterias and chai walas (tea vendors). Flakey, buttery pastry sheets envelope vegetables spiced with Indian masalas. Whether they’re served piping hot or room temperature, they are perfect for a quick snack or accompaniment with chai.
On long weekends and during the days surrounded by holidays we usually split our regular three meals a day into two meals. It’s not something we necessarily plan but a big brunch followed by an early dinner or late breakfast followed by hearty evening tea and snacks is generally how the days go by. For the days we’re in the mood for a filling snack or heavier evening tea, I keep these vegetable masala puffs on hand. You can easily store the unbaked pastries in the freezer until needed. Before guests arrive I make and freeze a batch of these. I love that they can go directly from freezer to oven. Want a lighter version of these? Make mini pastries for small appetizer bites. Larger ones can be served with a light salad for a quick last minute meal. The possibilities with these are endless and because of their simple flavors, they appeal to everyone.

 The husband enjoys these with a hot cup of chai and Little Mirchi requests triangle shaped ones. In fact, the last time I made these, Little Mirchi was my helper. Get your little ones involved by setting up a pastry stuffing station, someone to stuff, seal and crimp and someone to egg wash – a little inspiration for a family cooking session. Make these your own by adding your family’s favorite flavors.