Bhature and puris are among the most beloved Indian fried bread, often served with rich curries, spicy chole, or various dals. The key to perfect bhature and puris is achieving that wonderful puffiness, where the bread inflates like a balloon while frying. If you’re wondering how to get them just right every time, follow these easy tips to make your bhature and puris puff up beautifully.
1. Use the Right Flour (Maida)
For both bhature and puris, the type of flour you use matters. It’s important to use all-purpose flour (maida), as it gives the right texture and elasticity to the dough. You can mix a little wheat flour for added texture, but for the soft and puffy result, maida is the best choice.
2. Knead the Dough Well
The dough should be soft and pliable, not too stiff or too loose. Knead the dough for at least 8–10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If you feel it is too sticky, add a little flour; if it’s too dry, sprinkle a bit of water. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20–30 minutes.
3. Add Yogurt for Softness
A key ingredient for making bhature soft and puffy is yogurt (curd). Adding a tablespoon or two of plain yogurt to your dough makes the bhature soft, giving it a better texture. Yogurt also helps with fermentation, which can contribute to better puffiness.
4. Use a Small Amount of Baking Powder or Baking Soda
A small pinch of baking soda or baking powder in the dough will help the bread puff up while frying. This is especially important for bhature, as it requires extra leavening to achieve that signature puff. Be careful not to use too much, as it can alter the taste of the bread.
5. Let the Dough Rest
Allow the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes to an hour after kneading. This step helps the gluten relax, which makes it easier to roll out the dough into circles and also helps in achieving that beautiful puff when fried.
6. Roll the Dough Evenly
When rolling out puris or bhature, ensure the dough is rolled evenly. The dough should be neither too thick nor too thin. If the dough is uneven, the bread may puff unevenly during frying. Roll each ball of dough gently into small discs, maintaining a uniform thickness.
7. Ensure the Oil Is Hot Enough
The temperature of the oil is crucial for puffing up the dough. If the oil is too cold, the dough will absorb excess oil and will not puff. If it’s too hot, it will cook too quickly and may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. It should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.
8. Fry on Medium Heat
Frying on medium heat is key to getting perfectly puffed puris and bhature. If the heat is too high, the dough may cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. Frying on medium heat allows the bread to puff up slowly and cook evenly, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior and a soft interior.
9. Use a Slotted Spoon for Gentle Pressing
When frying, use a slotted spoon to gently press down on the center of the puri or bhature as it fries. This helps the dough puff up more evenly. Be gentle, as too much pressure can cause the dough to deflate.
10. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Frying too many bhature or puris at once can lower the oil’s temperature, preventing them from puffing properly. Fry in small batches to ensure that each piece gets enough space to puff up beautifully without overcrowding.
11. Maintain Consistent Oil Temperature
Keeping the oil at a consistent temperature is important for perfect puffed puris or bhature. If the oil cools down too much, the dough will not puff up, and if it gets too hot, it will burn. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil, or drop in a small piece of dough to test the temperature regularly.
12. Serve Immediately
Once the bhature or puris are fried and puffed, serve them immediately for the best texture. They tend to lose their puffiness if left out for too long, as the air trapped inside will escape. Enjoy them hot and fresh, paired with your favorite curry or chutney.
Conclusion
Achieving perfectly puffy bhature and puris at home is all about the right ingredients, technique, and attention to detail. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy restaurant-quality puffy fried bread at home, perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
