When it comes to making puff puff, there are a few reasons why it may turn out to be too chewy or tough in texture. One possible cause is over-rising. This happens when you leave the dough to rise for too long before frying.
Some people like to let their puff puff dough rise for up to 2 hours, thinking that it will result in a lighter and fluffier texture. However, this can actually backfire and make the puff puff too chewy. To ensure a fail-proof timing, it is best not to leave the dough to rise for more than 40 minutes to 1 hour.
Over-rising causes the yeast in the dough to become overly active, resulting in a dense and tough texture. The dough becomes too elastic and difficult to chew, almost like a rubbery consistency. It can be quite disappointing when you bite into a puff puff and it feels more like a workout for your jaw than a delightful treat.
To avoid this, it’s important to keep an eye on the dough while it’s rising. You can check on it periodically to see how it’s progressing. If you notice that it has doubled in size and looks puffy, it’s probably ready to be fried. Don’t let it go any further than that, or else you’ll risk ending up with tough puff puff.
Another tip to prevent over-rising is to make sure the dough is covered properly while it’s resting. This helps to trap the heat and moisture, creating the perfect environment for the yeast to do its magic. However, be careful not to wrap it too tightly, as the dough needs some room to expand.
In addition to over-rising, there are a few other factors that can contribute to tough puff puff. Using too much flour in the dough can make it heavy and dense. Make sure to follow the recipe measurements accurately and adjust the flour as needed. Also, be mindful of the frying temperature. If the oil is too hot, the outside of the puff puff may cook too quickly, while the inside remains undercooked and chewy.
If your puff puff turns out too chewy or tough, it’s likely due to over-rising. Keep an eye on the dough while it’s resting and fry it when it has doubled in size and looks puffy. Avoid leaving it to rise for too long, and make sure to use the right amount of flour and fry at the correct temperature. By paying attention to these details, you can achieve the perfect light and fluffy puff puff that will be a delight to bite into.