Pani Puri is a beloved Indian street food featuring crispy, hollow fried shells filled with spiced potatoes and chickpeas, then drizzled with tangy tamarind water and sweet chutney. This Pani Puri recipe is perfect as a party appetizer or weeknight snack, delivering an explosion of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Using simple ingredients, this authentic Indian snack recipe brings the experience of Indian street food directly to your kitchen. It’s a delightful addition to any gathering or a fun treat for yourself.
What is Pani Puri?
Pani Puri is a popular Indian street food that has captured the hearts of many with its unique combination of flavors and textures.
These crispy, hollow puris are filled with a delightful mixture of spiced potatoes and chickpeas, creating a burst of taste in every bite.
Often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, Pani Puri is a staple in Indian cuisine and is loved by food enthusiasts around the world.
This dish is not just about the puris; it’s also about the tangy tamarind water and sweet chutney that accompany it, making it a complete flavor experience.
The Allure of Street Food
The charm of Pani Puri lies in its street food origins.
Typically sold by vendors in bustling markets and busy streets, this dish embodies the vibrant culture of Indian street food.
Each puri is a small, crispy vessel that holds a delicious filling, making it easy to eat on the go.
The experience of enjoying Pani Puri is enhanced by the lively atmosphere of street food stalls, where people gather to savor this delightful snack.
Ingredients that Shine
The beauty of Pani Puri is in its simplicity.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and bursting with flavor.
The main components include semolina for the puris, along with boiled potatoes and chickpeas for the filling.
Spices like chaat masala and cumin powder elevate the taste, while fresh coriander adds a touch of brightness.
Finally, the tangy tamarind water and sweet chutney bring everything together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Preparation Process
Making Pani Puri at home is a rewarding experience.
The process begins with preparing the dough for the puris, which requires mixing semolina and all-purpose flour.
After resting, the dough is rolled into thin circles and fried until golden brown.
While the puris cool, the filling is prepared by combining mashed potatoes and chickpeas with spices.
Finally, the puris are assembled by filling them with the mixture and drizzling with tamarind water and chutney.
Serving Suggestions
Pani Puri is best enjoyed fresh, right after assembly.
Serve it on a rustic wooden platter to enhance the street food vibe, and watch as your guests delight in this interactive snack.
Encourage everyone to fill their puris just before eating to maintain the crispiness of the shells.
This dish is perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy night in.
Why Try This Recipe?
This Pani Puri recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings the essence of Indian street food into your home.
With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian food recipes vegetarian or looking to explore new snacks, Pani Puri is a delightful choice that offers something for everyone.
Easy Pani Puri Recipe
This Pani Puri recipe features crispy puris filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes and chickpeas, served with tangy tamarind water. The preparation takes about 1 hour and serves approximately 4-6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup semolina (sooji)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Water as needed for dough
- Oil for deep frying
- 2 medium potatoes boiled and mashed
- 1/2 cup boiled chickpeas
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Tamarind chutney to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Pani (spiced water) made from tamarind, mint, and spices
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix semolina and all-purpose flour. Gradually add water to form a smooth and stiff dough. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, chaat masala, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- Roll and Fry the Puri: Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the puris until they puff up and turn golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the Pani: Blend tamarind, mint, and spices with water to create a tangy spiced water. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble: Take a puri, gently crack the top, fill it with the potato and chickpea mixture, and drizzle with tamarind chutney and spiced water. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 150kcal per serving
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g