Portratits of a long weekend

Making puris with my parents

Puri, or poori, are deep-fried Indian breads made from atta (whole wheat flour). The dough is rolled into a thin disc, then dropped into hot oil. Using a spatula the puri is held under the oil's surface, trapping the resulting steam and puffing the dough into a golden pillow. One quick flip to brown the other cheek and they are done. I will admit a certain sense of accomplishment when a puri emerges perfectly formed - lightly tanned, slightly flaky but really more tender. Here they are served with Mum's spiced potatoes, yogurt and lime pickle. These beautiful photographs are courtesy of my rather talented brother; many thanks to him and to my parents for a delicious afternoon.

Comments

[Gini]

Yum! Yum! What beautiful pics. I don't think I have seen such beautiful puri pics.

[Jenny DeMilo]

the shot of the burner is particularly beautiful. The puri look yummy too ;)

[Sophie]

Lovely puri pictures! I'm just getting to grips with roti/chapati before I progress to these

[Michèle]

They do look lovely and it seems like such a comforting way to spend time in the kitchen. I don't actually think I've had puri before--I'm kind of embarrassed to admit it! Next time these are on your menu I'll have to make sure to come by ;)

[ChichaJo]

What perfect poori! And what gorgeous photos! I remember when I first discovered poori at an Indian restaurant...it was love at first bite and a welcome variation to the naan and roti I usually order :) I would love to be able to whip some up in my own home!

[liberal foodie]

fabulous pictures. I have yet to learn how to make puri. One step at a time; I have to master my roti, rotli, first.

[tara]

gini, thanks on behalf of my brother - I do think he captured the afternoon quite well.

Thanks for saying, jenny demilo!

sophie, I should sheepishly admit that I rarely attempt chapati, dosa, or puri without the help of Mum and Dad. Luckily, I can stand at their stove and feel a part of the action, though it is all their expertise.

michèle, only you would feel a wok full of bubbling oil was comforting! But yes, there is a certain charm to standing there, flipping and toasting the puris as Mum rolls them out. We'll have to have you over for a proper feast.

chicajo, I have a special place in my heart for each and every Indian bread, but that's just me and my greedy self. Puris have been a staple in my parents' home for as long as I can remember, and I do consider myself lucky for that.

Thank you for saying, liberal foodie. I am sure my brother appreciates all the compliments on the photos. Best of luck with your roti!

[Nicole]

Wow. They are beautiful photos. The clarity is unreal. And it looks delicious. I am so curious now to try one.

[Hillary]

Is that naan? Those photos look delicious!

[Mevrouw Cupcake]

These look amazing! What a lovely way to spend an afternoon with your family.

[robin (caviar and codfish)]

Beautiful photos! And the puri sounds so tasty!

[Linda]

Such beautiful photos! Talent runs in the family for sure ;p

Those puri look fantastic. Can't wait to try it.

[Mango Power Girl]

O! I love the series of shots here...looks like you had fun making them. I want some with my shrikhand now :)