Experience the Explosive Flavors of Nepali Street Food: Pani Puri

Pani Puri, also known as gol gappa, is a popular Nepali street food that is loved by locals and visitors alike. The dish consists of small crispy puri shells filled with a mixture of spiced potatoes, chickpeas, onions, and chutney, and then dipped into a tangy and spicy water.

The process of eating Pani Puri is an experience in itself. The puri shells are carefully cracked open and filled with the potato mixture and chutney, and then dipped into the water before being popped into the mouth whole. The explosion of flavors and textures is what makes Pani Puri such a beloved street food.

Pani Puri is not only delicious but also affordable, making it a favorite among people of all ages and backgrounds. You can find Pani Puri vendors on almost every street corner in Nepal, especially during the warmer months.

Despite its humble origins as a street food, Pani Puri has gained popularity all over the world and can now be found in many Nepali restaurants and food stalls abroad. If you are visiting Nepal, be sure to try this iconic street food and experience the unique flavors and culture of Nepal.

To make Pani Puri, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Puri:

• 1 cup of semolina
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed
• Oil for deep frying

For the Filling:

• 1 cup of boiled and mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup of boiled chickpeas
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped onions
• 2 tbsp of chopped coriander leaves
• 1 tsp of chaat masala
• Salt to taste
• Tamarind chutney and green chili chutney, as needed

For the Pani:

• 1 cup of chopped mint leaves
• 1/2 cup of chopped coriander leaves
• 1/2 cup of chopped green chilies
• 1 tsp of cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp of chaat masala
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups of water

Instructions:

1. To make the Puri, mix together the semolina, all-purpose flour, salt, and enough water to form a stiff dough.
2. Knead the dough until it is smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into thin circles.
4. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the Puris until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and set aside.
6. To make the filling, mix together the boiled potatoes, boiled chickpeas, onions, coriander leaves, chaat masala, and salt.
7. To assemble the Pani Puri, gently crack open a Puri shell and fill it with the potato mixture and chutney.
8. Dip the Puri into the Pani and pop the whole thing into your mouth.
9. To make the Pani, blend together the mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, cumin powder, chaat masala, salt, and water until smooth.
10. Strain the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Enjoy the delicious and unique flavors of Pani Puri, a beloved Nepali street food!