How to Make Matar Puri: The Perfect North Indian Snack

Matar puri, also known as matar ki kachori, is a delicious North Indian snack made with a crispy fried dough shell stuffed with a spicy green pea filling. This popular street food is enjoyed for breakfast or as a mid-morning snack. By following these simple steps, you can make this restaurant-style delicacy at home with ease.

Ingredients

Dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup ghee or oil 1/2 cup water approximately Filling: 1 cup fresh or frozen peas 1/2 onion, finely chopped 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional) 1 inch ginger, grated 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional) Salt to taste Cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Make the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the ghee or oil and rub it into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water and knead until you have a smooth elastic dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling:

If using fresh peas, shell them. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and cook until fragrant. Add the onion, green chili (if using), ginger, and garlic and cook until softened. Add the peas, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Cook until the peas are tender and the filling is dry. Let the filling cool completely.

Assemble and Fry the Puris:

Divide the dough into equal-sized balls. Roll out each ball into a thin disc. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of the disc. Gather the edges of the dough to enclose the filling and pinch them together to seal. Gently roll out the stuffed dough again into a disc. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the puris in batches until golden brown and crispy, turning them once. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro and your favorite chutneys.

Tips

For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of grated paneer or crumbled tofu to the filling. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a little more water. The filling should be dry otherwise the puris will burst while frying. Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the puris.

Enjoy Matar Puri Hot with Your Favorite Chutneys or Yogurt

Matar puri is a delightful treat that's perfect for any time of the day. It's a tasty accompaniment to a variety of dishes, such as naan roti or rice. Whether you're having it as a snack or a meal, this spicy green pea dish is sure to be a hit at your dining table. Watch the recipe video on my YouTube channel for a step-by-step guide on how to make this amazing matar puri recipe.

What's your favorite way to enjoy matar puri? Let me know in the comments below!