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Pani puri, a beloved street food, has captured the hearts and taste buds of people across India and beyond. This delightful snack, also known as golgappa, pain puri or sometimes puchka, consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a tantalising blend of tangy tamarind chutney, spicy mint-coriander water, and a medley of savoury ingredients. Nobody seems to be able to resist its unique flavours even Norway’s Ambassador to India Hans Jacob Frydenlund
Frydenlund recently posted about his latest brush with the dish, saying, “It’s a #golgappa Saturday at South extension market! Or pani puri? Or what should I call it? No matter what it’s called, it’s yum! I am turning into a proper dilliwala now. What else should I try? Any suggestions”.
The comments were flooded by Mumbai residents urging him to visit their and try 'pani puri' instead. These two vibrant cities in India, are renowned for their unique culinary offerings, including their take on the beloved street food, pani puri. In Delhi, gol gappe is a celebrated delicacy that showcases a harmonious blend of flavours. The crispy puris are filled with a combination of tangy tamarind chutney, zesty mint-coriander water, and an assortment of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and spices. The gol gappe experience in Delhi is characterised by a burst of flavours and a slightly sweet and sour taste that leaves a lasting impression.
On the other hand, Mumbai's version of pani puri, known as Pani Puri or Puchka, presents a distinct flavour profile. Mumbai's Pani Puri is famous for its fiery and spicy kick, with the pani consisting of a fiery mix of spices and chilli. The puris are filled with a blend of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and sprouts, accompanied by a tangy tamarind chutney that balances the heat. Mumbai's Pani Puri is often enjoyed with a generous garnish of sev on top, adding an extra crunch to the overall experience.
While both Delhi's gol gappe and Mumbai's Pani Puri share the same concept of hollow puri filled with flavourful ingredients, their distinct regional variations make them a testament to the rich culinary diversity in India. Where do you stand on the Delhi Mumbai street food divide?
