Revolutionary Quick Paneer Puffs Transform Snack Time
Renowned food writer Rukmini Iyer has created an exceptional recipe that brings Indian flavours to the world of puff pastry. These spiced paneer puffs with quick-pickled carrot raita offer a delicious fusion of textures and tastes that can be prepared in under 45 minutes.
The Perfect Pastry Solution for Busy Cooks
What makes these moreish little pastries particularly appealing is their incredible simplicity. Iyer describes the process as essentially "fill, fold and bake" - making them accessible even for novice bakers. The recipe serves three to four people and combines the creamy texture of paneer with zesty lime, fresh mint and a hint of chilli heat.
The beauty of these pastries lies in their versatility. They work equally well as a satisfying snack or a complete dinner option. Iyer suggests forming them into triangular puffs by filling squares of pastry and folding them, but she also acknowledges that those preferring a traditional pasty appearance can stamp out circles and create half-moons with crimped edges.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
The preparation begins with heating your oven to 220C (200C fan)/425F/gas 7. The paneer filling comes together quickly in a food processor, where you'll blitz 225g of paneer with spring onions, mint leaves, lime zest and juice, green chilli and sea salt until it reaches a fine, couscous-like consistency.
After adding a tablespoon of self-raising flour to bind the mixture, you'll divide it between twelve equal squares cut from a 320g roll of puff pastry. The assembly involves bringing opposite corners together to form triangles, sealing the edges gently, then brushing with beaten egg before baking for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Complementary Quick-Pickled Carrot Raita
While the pastries bake, you can prepare the vibrant carrot raita that perfectly complements the spiced puffs. The recipe involves toasting fennel and coriander seeds before combining them with white-wine vinegar, salt, spring onions and 300g of finely sliced carrots.
This quick-pickling process happens while the pastries are in the oven, and just before serving, you'll stir through 150g of natural yoghurt to create a refreshing, crunchy accompaniment that cuts through the richness of the pastry.
This innovative recipe demonstrates how traditional Indian ingredients can be transformed into convenient, contemporary dishes that fit perfectly into modern British lifestyles. The combination of flaky pastry, spiced cheese filling and tangy raita creates a complete culinary experience that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to achieve.
