Flaky vs Shortcrust
There are two main schools of curry puff. One has a thick, buttery shortcrust pastry that is sturdy and filling. The other is the 'spiral' puff, which has thin, laminated layers that shatter when you bite into them. Both are great, but the spiral version is usually seen as a mark of a more skilled hand.
The Molten Core
Inside, you will find a thick mixture of curried potatoes and chicken. A quality puff doesn't skimp on the spices. The best ones always include a wedge of hard-boiled egg, which adds a creamy texture to the spicy interior. Watch out for the heat: these retain their temperature for a long time.
Quick answers
- Are they usually halal?
- Yes, curry puffs are very common in Malay and Indian-Muslim stalls and many popular chains are halal certified. Always check the display.
- What other fillings are available?
- While potato and chicken are the classics, you can often find sardine, black pepper chicken, or even yam paste versions.