Puris are dead simple, the secret all lies in rolling out the dough not too thin or thick, and making sure the oil is hot enough. Also, sometimes it's necessary to quickly spoon hot oil on top to get a full poof. I think if you made one batch of dough, that would be the only learning curve you need.

I didn't get it right my first try either, but the moment you get the golden brown poof, it's like riding a bike, you'll never lose it. Check VahRehVah, he's got a good technique, plus he's hilarious.