Pilhi

Background

Pilhi is a comforting dumpling preparation from the northern subcontinent culinary tradition, shaped from a supple dough and finished with a warmly spiced aromatic base. Home cooks often make it for family gatherings because it is humble, hearty, and adaptable, with a balance of soft textures and gentle spice.

Ingredients

• all-purpose flour (2 cups)
• water (about 3/4 cup, warm)
• salt (1 teaspoon, plus more to taste)
• ghee (2 tablespoons, plus a little extra for finishing)
• cumin seeds (1 teaspoon)
• yogurt (1 cup, whisked)
• garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• onion (1 small, finely chopped)
• turmeric (1/2 teaspoon)
• coriander leaves (a small handful, chopped)

Preparation

1. Make the dough: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt. Drizzle in melted ghee, then gradually add warm water and knead until smooth and elastic.
2. Rest: Cover the dough and let it relax for 20 minutes to become easier to shape.
3. Whisk the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk yogurt with a pinch of salt and a touch of turmeric until creamy; set aside.
4. Aromatics: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic; keep them ready near the stove.

Cooking

1. Build the base: Warm ghee in a wide pan, add cumin seeds, and let them scent the fat. Stir in the onion and cook, stirring, for about 8 minutes until golden. Add the garlic and a pinch of turmeric and sauté briefly.
2. Shape the pilhi: Divide the rested dough into marble-sized pieces. Roll each between your palms, then press a slight dimple in the center for even cooking.
3. Steam: Arrange the shaped pieces on a lightly greased tray and steam over gently boiling water for about 12 minutes, until firm yet springy.
4. Finish: Transfer the steamed pieces to the pan with the aromatic base, fold in the prepared yogurt dressing, season with a little more salt if needed, and glaze with a spoon of melted ghee. Scatter coriander leaves and a few extra toasted cumin seeds on top.

Serving and Enjoyment

Serve the pilhi warm, with a side of cool yogurt, a fresh sprinkle of coriander leaves, and a light drizzle of ghee. The gentle aroma of cumin seeds and the sunny hue of turmeric complement the tender interior, while the savory notes of onion and garlic round out each bite. Adjust salt to taste just before serving for best balance.