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Just hearing the words Bhel Puri is enough to make your mouth water. This iconic Indian street food is a masterpiece of flavours and textures, a perfect mix of crunchy, spicy, tangy, and sweet. Over the years, bhel puri has become a staple of street food culture, as well as a popular snack throughout India and beyond.
It's not hard to see why – with its mix of textures and flavours, bhel puri is a taste explosion in every bite. The puffed rice provides a satisfying crunch, while the sev adds a delicate crispiness. The chutneys – usually made from tamarind and mint – are tangy and sweet, with just the right amount of spice to wake up your taste buds. And the fresh herbs, onions, and tomatoes add a burst of freshness that ties it all together.
Jalmuri in Kolkata, Murmura in Jaipur, Churmuri in Chennai, bhel goes by many names across India but no matter which type of bhel puri you try, one thing is for sure – it's a dish that's meant to be eaten streetside and messier the better. Bhel puri embodies the spirit of street food – it's cheap, fast, and delicious, and it's the perfect snack to grab on the go.
But bhel puri isn't just confined to the streets of India. In recent years, it's become popular in other parts of the world as well, thanks in part to the Indian diaspora. In cities like London, New York, and Sydney, you can find bhel puri on the menu at Indian restaurants and street food stalls.
Video Credits: Kunal Kapur/YouTube
These 3 international twists on bhel puri are just the tip of the iceberg. With a little creativity, you can add flavours from all over the world to this versatile snack.
Mexican Bhel Puri:
This variation of bhel puri is inspired by the taste of Mexico. Instead of the usual chutneys, this version uses a mix of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream to add a tangy and creamy element to the dish. Crushed tortilla chips are added to the mix for extra crunch, and jalapenos provide a spicy kick. Finally, fresh cilantro and lime juice are added to brighten up the flavours. It's like a deconstructed nacho platter but with a desi twist.
Thai Bhel Puri:
The puffed rice and sev are mixed with a spicy-sweet sauce made from Thai red curry paste, tamarind, and palm sugar. To this, add fresh veggies like cucumber, carrot, and bell pepper for crunch and colour. Finally, top it off with some chopped peanuts and fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil. The result is a flavorful and refreshing snack that combines the best of Thai and Indian food.
Italian Bhel Puri:
This variation of bhel puri is inspired by the classic Italian dish, Caprese salad. Instead of chutney, use a mix of balsamic glaze and pesto for a tangy and herbaceous flavour. Add fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil for a burst of freshness. Finally, top it off with some roasted pine nuts for extra crunch. It's like a mini Caprese salad in snack form!
