otterlyslick
Culinary Explorer
I recently made Indian Pani Puri, and it was an absolute blast of flavors! These crispy, hollow puris are filled with a spicy, tangy water and a mix of delicious fillings. They’re perfect for a fun snack or appetizer. Here’s how to make them at home:
Ingredients:
For the Puris:
- 1 cup semolina (sooji or rava)
- 2 tablespoons 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 mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves (cilantro)
- 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 inch piece of ginger, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp (or tamarind concentrate)
- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
- Salt, to taste
- 4 cups cold water
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Filling:
- 1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup boiled chickpeas (or sprouted moong beans)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chaat masala
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped onions (optional)
- Chopped coriander leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Puri Dough:
- In a bowl, combine the semolina, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add water to form a smooth, stiff dough. Knead for about 5-6 minutes.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Pani:
- In a blender, combine the mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, tamarind pulp, roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Add the cold water and lemon juice, and mix well. Adjust the seasoning and spice level to your taste. Chill the pani in the refrigerator.
3. Fry the Puris:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Pinch off small balls of the dough and roll them into small circles (about 1-2 inches in diameter) on a lightly floured surface.
- Fry the puris in hot oil until they puff up and turn golden brown. Remove them and drain on paper towels.
4. Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the boiled and mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, red chili powder, chaat masala, salt, and chopped onions (if using).
5. Assemble the Pani Puri:
- Carefully crack the top of each puri to create an opening. Stuff each puri with the potato-chickpea filling.
- Serve immediately with the chilled pani on the side for dipping or pouring into the puris.
Conclusion
Indian Pani Puri is a fun and flavorful street food that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of crispy puris, spicy water, and delicious fillings makes for a delightful experience. Enjoy making and eating these delightful bites right at home!

