Pani Puri
Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa in North India and Puchka in Bengal, is one of the most beloved street foods in India. It is a crispy, hollow puri filled with a spicy and tangy flavored water (pani), mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and a mix of sweet and spicy chutneys. This bite-sized treat is not only delicious but also a cultural favorite across different regions of India.
Ingredients and Preparation
For the Puris:
- 1 cup semolina (sooji)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Water (as needed)
- Oil for deep frying
For the Pani (Spiced Water):
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- ½ cup coriander leaves
- 2 green chilies
- 1-inch ginger piece
- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon black salt
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 2 tablespoons tamarind pulp
- 3 cups cold water
- Ice cubes (optional)
For the Filling:
- 2 boiled potatoes (mashed)
- ½ cup boiled chickpeas
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chaat masala
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
Steps to Make
- Prepare the Puris: Mix semolina, all-purpose flour, salt, and water to form a smooth dough. Roll out small circles and deep fry until crisp and golden. Set aside.
- Make the Pani: Blend mint, coriander, green chilies, ginger, cumin powder, black salt, chaat masala, tamarind pulp, and cold water until smooth. Strain the mixture and keep it chilled.
- Prepare the Filling: Mix mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, salt, chaat masala, and red chili powder.
- Assemble the Pani Puri: Crack open the top of a puri, stuff it with the potato-chickpea mixture, and pour in the spicy mint-flavored water. Enjoy immediately!
Why is Pani Puri So Popular?
Pani Puri is not just a snack; it’s an experience! The crunch of the puri, the burst of spicy and tangy flavors, and the joy of eating multiple puris in quick succession make it a favorite street food. It’s affordable, widely available, and offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
Tips for the Best Pani Puri Experience
- Always use cold water for the pani to enhance the taste.
- Fry the puris properly to ensure they remain crisp.
- Serve immediately after filling to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the spice levels according to ta
Pani Puri is more than just a street food—it’s a part of India’s culinary identity. Whether you enjoy it on a bustling street corner or prepare it at home for a party, it remains a timeless favorite.