The desire for hot pakodas and chai has returned with the start of the monsoon season. While roadside stands and home kitchens are dominated by Indian favourites like onion, chilli, and cauliflower pakodas, a novel take on this well-liked snack is gaining popularity abroad, especially in Malaysia.
Pakodas have undergone a creative metamorphosis in Malaysia, garnering recognition for both their flavour and visually appealing presentation. Videos of funny and delectable "chappal pakodas," or slipper-shaped fried dumplings, being served at Malaysian street markets are all over social media. Known locally as "caripap" or "curry puff," these dumplings are praised for their creative designs and flavourful fillings.
These chappal-shaped dumplings are filled with mashed potatoes, chopped onions, a flavourful blend of regional spices, and a savoury mixture of chicken, beef, or mutton. After that, the filling is carefully shaped to resemble slippers, wrapped in a thin layer of dough, and deep-fried until golden brown and crisp. The end effect is a crunchy outside and a juicy, soft inside that pleases the palate. Some vendors even top the fried dumplings with sesame seeds to enhance the flavour.
Making chappal pakodas is considered a culinary art form. Using local spices like turmeric, coriander, cumin, and red chilli powder, the meat is marinated after being finely chopped. Some versions incorporate boiled eggs into the filling, while others add potatoes and onions for texture. The dumplings are formed into slipper-like shapes and then fried until they are perfectly crisp in bubbling hot oil. In order to make each pakoda a visual delight, some inventive vendors are now experimenting with a variety of whimsical and playful shapes.
The internet has taken notice of a recent viral video that shows how these slipper-shaped pakodas are made and served at a busy night market in Malaysia. The video shows vendors expertly making the distinctive dumplings and happy customers enjoying them. As one excited user put it, "This is incredible! Such delectable food in the form of slippers—street food in Malaysia is absolutely amazing.
The video's viral success has brought attention to the diversity and inventiveness of Malaysian street food culture. These chappal pakodas are redefining what a simple dumpling can be by fusing comforting flavours with inventive cooking, and they are quickly becoming a must-try item for tourists and foodies alike.
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