If you’re craving a snack that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, this best vegetarian curry puff recipe will quickly become your go-to. Curry puffs are a beloved treat across many cultures, known for their crispy pastry exterior and savory, spiced filling.
In this vegetarian version, we’ve carefully balanced aromatic spices with hearty vegetables like potatoes, peas, and carrots, creating a deliciously comforting bite that’s perfect for any time of day.
Whether you’re preparing for a gathering, looking for a tasty lunchbox addition, or just want a flavorful snack, these curry puffs are incredibly versatile. Plus, they’re easy to make from scratch using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Let’s dive into making these golden, flaky delights that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian curry puff recipe stands out because it combines a flaky, buttery pastry with a warm, spiced vegetable filling that’s both comforting and vibrant. It’s a perfect fusion of texture and flavor—crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside.
Additionally, this recipe is:
- Easy to customize by adding your favorite veggies or spices.
- Made from scratch using simple pantry staples—no need for pre-made dough.
- Great for meal prep since you can freeze the uncooked puffs and bake them fresh whenever you want.
- Vegetarian and crowd-pleasing, making it perfect for parties, picnics, or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- For the pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- For the filling:
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped (optional)
- For assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional for vegan alternative brush with plant milk)
- Oil for frying or baking
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Non-stick frying pan or skillet
- Knife and chopping board
- Pastry brush
- Fork (for sealing edges)
- Baking sheet or deep fryer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Add water and oil: Slowly add the cold water and vegetable oil, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Knead lightly on a floured surface until smooth. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the filling vegetables: Boil the diced potatoes until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add spices and veggies: Mix in curry powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Add the cooked potatoes, carrots, and peas. Stir well to coat everything with spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, mashing some potatoes slightly to help bind the filling. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in fresh coriander if using. Let cool.
- Roll out the dough: Divide the dough into 10-12 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a circle about 5 inches in diameter.
- Fill the curry puffs: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle. Brush the edges with water or beaten egg. Fold the dough over to cover the filling, forming a semi-circle.
- Seal and crimp edges: Press the edges together firmly with a fork or your fingers to seal completely.
- Cook the puffs: You can either deep-fry the curry puffs in hot oil (350°F/175°C) until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, or bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes after brushing with egg wash for a healthier option.
- Drain and serve: Remove the cooked curry puffs from oil or oven and place on paper towels to drain excess oil if frying. Cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
For extra flaky pastry, make sure your butter and water are very cold before mixing. Also, avoid overworking the dough.
- Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and replace the egg wash with unsweetened plant milk or a mixture of oil and flour.
- Spice it up: Add finely chopped green chili or a dash of garam masala for deeper flavors.
- Protein boost: Include cooked lentils or crumbled paneer in the filling to make it more filling.
- Baking vs frying: Baking is healthier and easier, but frying gives a classic crispy texture.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked curry puffs on a tray, then transfer to a ziplock bag. Bake or fry straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Curry Puff (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 150 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Vegetarian curry puffs are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of dips and sides. Serve them with a cooling cucumber raita or a tangy mango chutney to complement the spicy filling.
They make a fantastic appetizer or snack alongside a fresh salad or a cup of spiced tea or coffee. For a more substantial meal, pair with a bowl of chipotle black beans and rice or a vibrant Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe pasta for a fusion twist.
Conclusion
This best vegetarian curry puff recipe offers a delightful balance of crispy pastry and savory filling that’s sure to please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Its straightforward preparation and customizable filling make it a wonderful recipe for home cooks looking to explore flavorful snacks with ease.
Whether fried or baked, these golden puffs are perfect for any occasion—be it a party appetizer, lunchbox treat, or a cozy snack with tea.
Taking the time to make the pastry from scratch elevates the experience, and the warm spices bring a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen with joy. Don’t forget to experiment with the filling and spice levels to make this recipe truly your own.
For more delicious recipes to try alongside your curry puffs, check out our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe and Cheese Penny Recipe. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegetarian Curry Puff Recipe
Description: A delicious and flaky curry puff filled with a savory blend of vegetables and spices. Perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 12 curry puffs
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Mix flour and cold butter until crumbly.
- Add cold water gradually to form dough; chill for 20 minutes.
- Heat oil, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add potato, carrot, peas, curry powder, turmeric, and salt; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Roll out dough and cut into circles.
- Place filling on dough circles, fold and seal edges.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 24g
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