Bhel Puri

bhel_puri

Bhel Puri is a popular Indian street food snack that is found at every nook and corner of India. It is a dish that is bursting with flavors and textures, making it a delight to the taste buds. It is a simple yet delicious mixture of puffed rice, sev, papdi, onions, tomatoes, coriander, tamarind chutney, and green chutney, which adds a tangy, spicy, and sweet flavor to the dish. Bhel Puri is a quick and easy recipe that can be made in minutes, making it a go-to recipe for many Indians.

The history of Bhel Puri goes back to the 1930s when the first version of the dish was created in Mumbai. It is believed that Bhel Puri was created by street vendors who wanted to provide a light and tasty snack to the people who came out of the cinema halls. The dish became an instant hit and soon became a popular street food.

Bhel Puri is a versatile dish that can be customized according to one’s taste. The basic ingredients remain the same, but one can add or remove certain ingredients according to their preference. For instance, some people like to add boiled potatoes or sprouts to the dish to make it more filling and nutritious. Others like to add peanuts, chopped mangoes, or pomegranate seeds to give it a unique twist.

The presentation of Bhel Puri is also very unique. It is usually served in a cone-shaped paper holder or a bowl made of a leaf. The dish is topped with sev, which adds a crispy texture to the mixture. The street vendors take great care in plating the dish, making it look attractive and appetizing.

Bhel Puri is not only tasty but also has many health benefits. It is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a perfect snack for people who are trying to watch their weight. The puffed rice used in the dish is a great source of carbohydrates, which provides instant energy. The coriander, tomatoes, and onions used in the dish are loaded with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy snack option.

Bhel Puri is also a great dish to prepare when you have guests over. It is easy to make and can be prepared in advance. It is a dish that can be served as a starter or a snack, making it an all-time favorite among Indians.

In conclusion, Bhel Puri is a popular Indian street food that is loved by people of all ages. It is a dish that is easy to make, has a unique taste and presentation, and is high in nutrition. It is a snack that can be enjoyed on its own or can be served as a starter. Bhel Puri is a must-try for anyone who loves Indian cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup puffed rice
  • 1/2 cup sev (vermicelli-like noodles made of chickpea flour)
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small tomato, diced
  • 1 small boiled potato, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp tamarind chutney
  • 1 tbsp mint-coriander chutney
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp chaat masala
  • 1/2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the puffed rice, sev, chopped onion, diced tomato, boiled potato, and cilantro leaves.

  2. In another bowl, mix together the tamarind chutney, mint-coriander chutney, lemon juice, chaat masala, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.

  3. Pour the chutney mixture over the puffed rice and other ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until everything is well coated in the chutney.

  4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro leaves or sev, if desired. This recipe makes approximately 2 servings. Enjoy the spicy, tangy flavors of this classic Indian street food!