Pani Puri (Indian Street Snack)

Experience the vibrant flavors of Indian street food with Pani Puri, a fun and interactive snack that combines crispy puris with tangy, spicy water and a savory filling. Perfect for gatherings or a flavorful treat at home, Pani Puri brings a burst of taste in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Puris:

• 1 cup semolina (sooji/rava)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• A pinch of baking soda
• Water, as needed
• Oil, for deep frying

For the Filling:

• 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1/2 cup boiled chickpeas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander, chopped

For the Pani (Spicy Water):

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves
• 2 green chilies
• 1-inch piece of ginger
• 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 4 cups cold water
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Puris

   In a bowl, mix semolina, all-purpose flour, and baking soda. Gradually add water and knead into a firm dough. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

   Roll the dough into small circles, about 2 inches in diameter.

   Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the rolled dough circles until they puff up and turn golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

2. Make the Filling

   In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, chopped onion, cumin powder, chaat masala, salt, and coriander. Mix well.

3. Prepare the Pani

   Blend mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, tamarind paste, cumin powder, and chaat masala into a smooth paste.

   Add cold water and salt to taste. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

4. Assemble the Pani Puri

   Gently tap a hole in the center of each puri.

   Fill each puri with a spoonful of the potato and chickpea mixture.

   Dip or pour the chilled spicy water into the puri and enjoy immediately.

Serving

Serve Pani Puri as a fun snack or appetizer at parties. Its combination of crisp puris, flavorful filling, and tangy-spicy water offers a delightful explosion of textures and flavors in every bite.