Fish Buns | මාළුපාන්

Sri Lankan Fish Buns, also known as Maalu Paan, are a popular street food and snack in Sri Lanka. These savory buns are filled with a spiced mixture of fish, onions, and aromatic spices, then baked to perfection. They are loved for their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Here’s a unique and well-detailed recipe for Sri Lankan Fish Buns:

Ingredients:
For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup lukewarm water
  For the Filling:
• 300 grams boneless fish fillets (such as mackerel or tuna), cooked and flaked
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chili peppers, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
  For Egg Wash:
• 1 egg, beaten
  For Baking:
• Baking tray, greased
• Sesame seeds, for sprinkling (optional)
  Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt for the dough.
   Mix well.
2. Add the vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and gradually pour in the lukewarm water. Mix
   until a soft and pliable dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes
   smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it
   rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. In a separate bowl, prepare the filling by combining the cooked and flaked fish, chopped
   onion, green chili peppers, minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric powder, curry powder, chili
   powder, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fish mixture and sauté for a few
   minutes until the flavors meld together and any excess moisture evaporates. Remove from
   heat and set aside to cool.
6. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a greased baking tray with parchment paper.
7. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a
   small circle.
8. Place a spoonful of the cooled fish filling onto one side of each dough circle. Sprinkle some
   chopped fresh coriander leaves over the filling.
9. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the
   edges of the buns.
10. Place the assembled buns onto the prepared baking tray. Brush the tops of the buns with
    beaten egg for a shiny finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the tops, if desired.
11. Bake the fish buns in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden
    brown and crispy.
12. Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
13. Serve the Sri Lankan Fish Buns warm as a delightful snack or as part of a meal.
    Enjoy your unique and flavorful Sri Lankan Fish Buns!