Puri, a popular Indian deep-fried bread, is a delightful delicacy loved by many. Traditionally made with wheat flour, this healthier version uses rice flour, making it a gluten-free option. While puris are delicious and satisfying, they're also rich in calories and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here's a healthier recipe for rice flour puris:
Ingredients:
1 cup rice flour 1/4 cup hot water (adjust quantity as needed) 1 tablespoon oil (preferably olive oil or any cooking oil of your choice) Salt to taste Oil for deep frying (preferably heart-healthy oils like olive or avocado oil) Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, add rice flour and salt. Mix well. Slowly add hot water while continuously stirring the flour. Use a spoon or spatula initially as the water will be hot. Knead the mixture into a smooth, pliable dough. Add a little more water if needed, but be cautious not to make the dough too sticky. Add Oil:
Once the dough is formed, add a tablespoon of oil to it. Knead again for a few minutes until the oil is well incorporated into the dough. This will make the puris crispy. Divide the Dough:
Divide the dough into small, evenly sized balls. Roll each ball between your palms to make them smooth and round. Rolling the Puris:
Take one dough ball and flatten it slightly between your palms. Place the dough on a clean, dry surface. Use a rolling pin to gently roll it out into a small circle, approximately 3-4 inches in diameter. Make sure the puri is not too thin or too thick.
Frying the Puris:
Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface gradually, the oil is ready. Carefully slide the rolled puri into the hot oil. Gently press it with a slotted spoon to help it puff up. Fry until the puri turns golden brown and puffs up completely. Flip it once to ensure even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the puri from the oil. Place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve:
Repeat the rolling and frying process with the remaining dough balls.
Serve the hot and crispy rice flour puris immediately with your favorite side dishes like vegetable curry, dal, or chutney. While puris are undeniably tasty, it's essential to remember that they are deep-fried and calorie-dense. Enjoy them occasionally as a treat while focusing on a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutritious foods.
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