What is Bhel Puri?
Bhel puri is a popular Indian street food snack made of puffed rice, vegetables, and a tangy tamarind sauce. It is usually served in a cone-shaped paper or plastic cup. It’s originated in Mumbai and is now famous all over India. It is often eaten as a snack or appetizer but can also be served as a main dish. The key ingredients in bhel puri are puffed rice, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, potatoes, and a tangy tamarind sauce. Other common additions include sev (a crispy fried noodle), chutney, and spices.
It’s typically vegetarian, but many versions include chicken, shrimp, or other meats. So whether you’re snacking on bhel puri at the beach or enjoying a bowl for dinner, this delicious dish is sure to please everyone’s taste buds!
The origin of Bhel Puri
It’s believed to have originated in Mumbai, India, in the early 1900s. The dish is traditionally served on a small round plate called a thali. There are many theories about who invented bhel puri. Some say it was created by a man named Bhelpuriwallah, who sold the dish on the streets of Mumbai. Others believe it was invented by a woman named Jugal Kishore Chowdhury, who ran a roadside stall in Kolkata (then Calcutta), India, in the 1930s.
Whatever its origins, this dish has become a beloved snack food enjoyed by people all over India and the world. If you’re ever in India, be sure to try this delicious dish!
Further Reading: Veg Shawarma Recipe: A Deliciously Healthy And Simple Meal
What makes Bhel Puri special?
There are many reasons why It’s loved by so many people. It is a delicious and healthy snack option that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It is also a versatile dish that can be made to suit any taste preference. It’s relatively easy to make, which makes it an excellent option for busy people or those who do not have much experience in the kitchen.
It’s also loved because it is a great party food. It can be easily made in large quantities and served to a large number of people without any hassle. Additionally, it is generally liked by all age groups and can be a fun addition to any party or gathering.
Further Reading: How to make panipuris-The traditional Indian snack
Is Bhel puri healthy?
While this dish is generally considered a healthy snack, there are some concerns about its nutrition. It’s high in calories and fat due to the added fried snacks such as sev or boondi. It is also relatively high in sodium due to the use of salted peanuts and chutneys. While the exact nutritional content of bhel puri can vary depending on the recipe, it is generally not considered a healthy snack option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.
While it may not be the healthiest snack option available, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you are concerned about your sodium intake, you can try making your own recipe at home with fresh ingredients and avoiding adding fried snacks or excessive amounts of chutney.
How to make Bhel Puri easily at home?
This recipe is simple and can be made quickly at home. All you need is some puffed rice, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, a little bit of tamarind chutney, and some sev (thin fried noodles). You can also add other ingredients like green chilies, coriander leaves, and lemon juice to taste.
- First, mix the puffed rice with the potatoes and onions.
- Then, add the tomatoes and tamarind chutney and mix well.
- Finally, add the sev and other ingredients to taste. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips to make it healthier
There are a few simple tips you can follow to make your bhel puri healthier:
- Use less oil: When making the bhel puri, use less oil than what is typically called for. This will help to reduce the overall fat content.
- Choose healthier ingredients: When choosing ingredients for your bhel puri, try to choose healthier options. For example, use whole wheat flour instead of white flour and brown rice instead of white rice.
- Add more vegetables: One easy way to make bhel puri healthier is to add more vegetables to the mix. This will up the nutrient content and also add some extra fiber.
- Go easy on the toppings: When it comes to toppings, choose wisely. Opt for healthy options like yogurt or chutney rather than fatty items like cream or cheese.
Further Reading: How to make Dahi Puri at home: A quick and easy recipe for making the best street food
Conclusion
Generally speaking, bhel puri is a healthy dish. It is made with fresh ingredients like vegetables and fruits and usually doesn’t contain too much fat or sodium. However, as with any food, bhel puri can be unhealthy if not prepared properly. For example, if the dish contains too much fried foods or processed ingredients, it can be bad for your health. So, check the ingredient list before ordering bhel puri, and try to choose healthier options when possible.
