Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa or Puchka, is a popular street food snack in India. It consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a spicy, tangy water, and a mixture of potatoes, chickpeas, and spices. Here’s a detailed guide to making authentic Pani Puri at home.
Ingredients
For the Puris:
- 1 cup semolina (sooji)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- Water, as needed
- Oil for frying
For the Pani (Spicy Water):
- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 green chilies
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 1/2 teaspoon black salt
- Salt to taste
- 3 tablespoons tamarind pulp
- 4 cups cold water
For the Filling:
- 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1/2 cup boiled chickpeas
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puris
- In a large bowl, combine the semolina, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add water and knead to form a stiff dough.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into small equal-sized balls and roll each ball into a thin, small circle.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the rolled puris until they puff up and turn golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pani (Spicy Water)
- In a blender, combine the coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, ginger, roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, black salt, regular salt, and tamarind pulp.
- Add a little water and blend to a smooth paste.
- Transfer the paste to a large bowl and add the cold water. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, chaat masala, ground cumin, salt, and chopped coriander leaves.
- Mix well and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Pani Puri
- Gently tap the top of each puri to make a small hole.
- Fill each puri with a small amount of the potato and chickpea mixture.
- Dip the filled puri into the spicy water and enjoy immediately.
Tips for Perfect Pani Puri
- Puri Dough: Ensure the dough is stiff to get crispy and puffed puris.
- Frying Temperature: Fry the puris on medium heat to ensure they puff up evenly and become crispy.
- Spice Level: Adjust the green chilies and spices in the pani according to your heat preference.
- Serving: Pani Puri is best enjoyed immediately after assembling to maintain the crispiness of the puris.
Pani Puri is a delightful and flavorful snack that brings the vibrant taste of Indian street food to your table. Whether you’re making it for a party or just to enjoy a fun snack, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Enjoy your culinary journey with these traditional Pani Puris!