Puchka
Crispy fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar – a simple, sweet take on the classic Indian street snack. Perfect for a fun dessert or teatime treat.
- Total time
- 40 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 220
- Protein
- 3g

Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp semolina
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup water
- 2 cup oil for frying
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp semolina, 1/4 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add 1/2 cup water, stirring until a stiff dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth, then cover and rest for 20 minutes.
- 2
Divide the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball into a smooth sphere, keeping them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
- 3
Heat 2 cups oil in a deep pan over medium heat until a small piece of dough sizzles and rises to the surface, about 350°F. Working in batches, gently slide in the dough balls, frying without crowding.
- 4
Fry the balls, turning occasionally, until they puff up and turn golden brown and crisp, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- 5
Let the puchkas cool slightly, then dust generously with 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tools you’ll need
- large bowl
- rolling surface
- deep pan
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
Cook smarter
Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge
Custrd is a free iOS app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations.

