Potato & Jalapeño Paratha Twists Recipe – Easy Baked Snack

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Potato & Jalapeño Paratha Twists Recipe – Easy Baked Snack

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s become a total hit at my place, and I know you’ll love it too. These Potato & Jalapeño Paratha Twists are the perfect blend of comforting Indian flavors and a fun, easy-to-eat snack form. They’re baked, not fried, which makes them a little lighter, and honestly? They disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good snack? These twists are crispy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy. They’re a fantastic way to use up leftover parathas (or a super convenient way to enjoy store-bought ones!). Plus, they’re a little different from your usual samosas or pakoras, making them a fun addition to any gathering. I first made these for a friend’s birthday, and they were a huge success!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious twists:

• 2 medium red potatoes
• 1 tablespoon oil
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 5 Kawan Roti Chanai parathas
• 2 to 3 jalapeños, thinly sliced
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Ingredient Notes

Okay, let’s talk ingredients! A few things to keep in mind:

• Kawan Roti Chanai Parathas: These are a lifesaver! You can usually find them in the frozen section of Indian/Asian grocery stores. They’re flaky, delicious, and save so much time. If you can’t find Kawan brand, any good quality frozen paratha will work. Depending on where you are in India, you might find fresh parathas readily available from local vendors – those are amazing too, of course!
• Cheddar Cheese: I know, cheddar isn’t traditionally Indian! But it melts beautifully and gives a lovely, familiar flavor. If you want to lean into more authentic flavors, paneer (Indian cheese) is a fantastic substitute. You could also try a mix of mozzarella and a little bit of grated Monterey Jack.
• Jalapeños: These can vary in heat. Start with 2 if you’re unsure, and add more if you like things spicy. Remember to remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
• Spice Levels: Red chili powder also varies! Kashmiri chili powder will give you color without too much heat, while other varieties can pack a punch.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

1. Make the Filling: First, we’ll get the potato filling ready. Grind the cumin, fennel, and coriander seeds together – a small spice grinder works great for this.
2. Sauté & Mash: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground spices and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then, add the potatoes and salt. Cook until the potatoes are softened, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Mash it Up: Once the potatoes are cooked, mash them well with a fork. Stir in the garam masala and red chili powder. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Thaw the Parathas: While the filling cools, thaw the parathas for 2-3 minutes. You want them pliable but not soggy.
5. Assemble the Twists: Spread a generous layer of the potato filling on half of each paratha. Top with sliced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Fold & Cut: Fold the paratha in half, creating a semi-circle. Cut the folded paratha into strips about ½ inch wide.
7. Twist & Bake: Gently twist each strip. Place the twists on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush lightly with oil.
8. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray! This will steam the twists instead of baking them, and they won’t get as crispy.
• For extra crispiness, you can broil the twists for the last minute or two, but watch them closely to prevent burning.
• If your potato mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind it.

Variations

• Cheese Lover’s Delight: My friend Priya loves adding a sprinkle of mozzarella along with the cheddar.
• Spicy Kick: My brother always asks for extra jalapeños and a dash of cayenne pepper in the filling!
• Herbaceous Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of chopped cilantro into the potato filling for a fresh flavor.

Vegan Adaptation

Want to make these vegan? No problem! Simply swap the cheddar cheese for a vegan cheese alternative. There are some great options available now that melt well.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

If you’re gluten-free, finding a paratha substitute is key. You could try using gluten-free tortillas, but they won’t have the same flaky texture. Look for Indian flatbreads made with gluten-free flours – some stores carry them.

Spice Level Adjustment

Don’t like it too spicy? Reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit the jalapeños altogether. Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter variety of chili powder.

Festival Adaptations

These twists are perfect for Diwali parties or any festive gathering! They’re easy to make in large batches and are always a crowd-pleaser.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these warm with a side of dipping sauce. I love a cilantro-mint chutney blended with sour cream, mayo, and a squeeze of lemon juice. They’re also delicious with plain yogurt or even ketchup!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

FAQs

What is a paratha, and where can I find them?

A paratha is a flaky, layered flatbread popular in India. You can find frozen parathas in the Indian/Asian section of most supermarkets, or at Indian grocery stores.

Can I make the potato filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the potato filling a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What is a good substitute for cheddar cheese in this recipe?

Paneer (Indian cheese) is a great authentic substitute. You can also use mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack.

Can these be air-fried instead of baked?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I adjust the spice level to be milder or hotter?

Reduce or omit the jalapeños and red chili powder for a milder flavor. Add cayenne pepper or use a hotter chili powder for more heat.

Enjoy! I really hope you give this recipe a try. Let me know what you think in the comments below!