Mastering the Iconic Indian Street Snack

Bhel Puri is one of the most iconic street foods of India, celebrated for its rich blend of flavors, textures, and aromas. This favorite chaat is a perfect harmony of crispy puffed rice, tangy tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, crunchy sev, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. Hailing from the bustling streets of Mumbai, Bhel Puri has transcended regional boundaries to become a favorite snack across India and the world.

The flip side of Bhel Puri is its flexibility-it can be made according to one’s taste preferences, however mild or tangy or scorching hot or flavorful it may be. Light, refreshing, and full of flavors, this quick-to-prepare snack is just what anyone needs for any time, any party, or simply on the flip of a nostalgic whim to take the excitement of Indian street food right to the plate.
With its easy preparation and unforgettable taste, Bhel Puri is a must-try recipe for food enthusiasts and street food lovers alike!

Ingredients for Bhel Puri:

Base Ingredients:

• Puffed rice (murmura): 4 cups
• Sev (thin chickpea flour noodles): 1 cup
• Papdi (flat crispy discs): 8–10, broken into small pieces
• Boiled potatoes: 2 medium, diced
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomato: 1 medium, finely chopped (optional)
• Cucumber: 1 small, finely chopped (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
• Roasted peanuts: 2 tbsp (optional)

Chutneys:

• Tamarind Chutney:
• Tamarind pulp: 1/2 cup
• Jaggery: 1/2 cup
• Cumin powder: 1/2 tsp
• Salt: to taste

Green Chutney:

• Fresh coriander leaves: 1 cup
• Mint leaves: 1/2 cup
• Green chilies: 2
• Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
• Salt: to taste
• Garlic Chutney (optional):
• Garlic: 5 cloves
• Kashmiri red chili powder: 1 tsp
• Lemon juice: 1 tsp
• Salt: to taste

Spices:

• Chaat masala: 1 tsp
• Red chili powder: 1/2 tsp
• Salt: to taste
• Lemon juice: 2 tsp

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Assembly Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions to make Bhel Puri:

1. Prepare the Chutneys:

Tamarind Chutney: In a pan add tamarind pulp, jaggery, cumin powder and salt. Reduce the mixture so that it reaches a thick texture. Let cool and keep ready.

Green Chutney: Grind all the ingredients – coriander, mint leaves, chilies, garlic, lemon juice and salt with water till smooth.

Garlic Chutney is optional: If using, ground garlic, red chili powder, lemon juice, and salt using a little amount of water.

2. Prepared Base Ingredients:

Roast the puffed rice lightly in a dry pan for 2–3 minutes so that it gets crisp. Let it cool.
Boiled potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and cucumber, chop into small pieces.

3. Prepare Bhel Puri:

Add puffed rice, broken papdi, and sev to a large mixing bowl.
Toss in boiled potatoes, chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and roasted peanuts if using.
Add 2 tablespoons of tamarind chutney and the green chutney, if preferred. Garnish with additional heat from some garlic chutney, in case you fancy that.
Mix chaat masala, a sprinkle of red chili powder with salt.
Get that squeeze in with fresh lime juice for freshness.

4. Mix and Serve:

Gently yet completely blend everything to layer them all pretty and uniformly with spices and chutneys.
Toss Bhel Puri right on serving dishes.
Garnish with extra sev, fresh coriander leaves, and a papdi or two for crunch.

Tips for Perfect Bhel Puri

Serve immediately: Bhel Puri becomes soggy if left for too long after mixing. Assemble just before serving.
Adjust flavors: Customize the tanginess, spice, and sweetness by adjusting the chutneys.
Add variety: For a twist, include grated raw mango, pomegranate seeds, or diced green apples.
Bhel Puri is an easy, nutritious, and mouth-watering snack that embodies the vibrant spirit of Indian street food. Enjoy this as a light meal or share it with your friends at the next gathering.

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