Today’s Celebrating Pani Puri. July 12, 2023 (Pani Puri Day 2023). with interactive game Doodle celebrates pani puri, a beloved South Asian street food. It features a crispy shell filled with a variety of options like potatoes, chickpeas, spices, and flavored waters. In 2015, a restaurant in Indore achieved a World Record by offering 51 different flavors of pani puri!
The origins of Pani Puri
The origins of Pani Puri and its regional variations have fascinating stories attached to them. According to legend, Pani Puri can be traced back to the time of the Mahabharata, where Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, invented this delightful snack. During their exile, when resources were limited, Draupadi used leftover aloo sabzi (potato curry) and wheat dough to create a small, satisfying bite-sized dish that would satiate the hunger of all five warriors.
This popular street food has evolved over time and has acquired different names and flavors throughout the country. In Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, Pani Puri is known as a bite-sized street food dipped in a mixture of boiled chickpeas, white peas, sprouts, and paired with spicy pani (flavored water).
In the northern states of Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and New Delhi, it is referred to as gol gappa. Gol gappas are small street food delights filled with a mixture of potatoes and chickpeas, served with jaljeera-flavored pani, which adds a tangy and refreshing twist to the overall taste.
Regional variations of Pani Puri
Pani puri, also known by various regional names like golgappa, puchka, and paani ke patashe, is believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent. While its exact origin is debated, it is widely enjoyed across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
The basic concept of pani puri remains the same across regions: a crisp puri filled with a mixture of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. However, there are variations in the water (pani) and fillings used, resulting in unique regional flavors. Here are some notable variations:
- North India: In North India, pani puri is known as golgappa. The water (pani) is typically spicy and tangy, made with tamarind pulp, mint, coriander, and chaat masala. The filling consists of boiled potatoes, chickpeas, and a spicy mixture. Some regions add sweet tamarind chutney and yogurt to enhance the flavors.
- West India: In Western India, pani puri is commonly called pani ke patashe or paani puri. The water (pani) is tangy and slightly sweet, prepared with tamarind, mint, coriander, and spices. The filling often includes mashed potatoes, chickpeas, sprouts, and sometimes grated raw mango. Gujarati-style pani puri, known as “sev puri,” features additional toppings like sev (crunchy chickpea noodles) and chutneys.
- East India: In East India, particularly in West Bengal and Bangladesh, pani puri is known as puchka or fuchka. The water (pani) is usually tangy and spicy, with a distinctive mustard flavor. The fillings commonly include mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, and sometimes boiled yellow peas. Puchka is often enjoyed as a street food snack and is known for its spicy and flavorful water.
- South India: In South India, pani puri has variations like pani puri, golgappa, and panipuri. The water (pani) is usually spicier and tangier, prepared with tamarind, mint, coriander, green chilies, and chaat masala. The fillings may include boiled potatoes, boiled chickpeas, and sometimes sprouts or sweet corn.
- Other Regional Variations: There are several other regional variations of pani puri across India, each with its own unique twist. For example, in Mumbai, there’s a popular variation called “Ragda Pattice Pani Puri,” which includes a potato patty (pattice) and a spicy yellow pea curry (ragda) as fillings. In Rajasthan, a variation called “Kachori Pani Puri” features a kachori (deep-fried snack) instead of the traditional puri.
These regional variations highlight the diverse culinary traditions and flavors found throughout the Indian subcontinent. Each variation adds its own distinct taste and texture, making pani puri a versatile and beloved street food enjoyed by people across different regions.
Similarly, in West Bengal, as well as some parts of Bihar and Jharkhand, this street food is known as puchkas or fuchkas. These variants are characterized by the use of tamarind pulp as a key ingredient, giving the puchkas a unique tanginess.
Pani Puri Day 2023
These regional variations highlight the rich diversity and culinary traditions that have shaped Pani Puri across India. The combination of crispy puris, flavorful fillings, and the infusion of tangy, spicy, and sweet pani has made Pani Puri a beloved and versatile street food enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
Google Doodle Celebrate Pani Puri Day 2023
That sounds like a fantastic idea! Pani puri is a popular Indian street food loved by many. It’s a fun and flavorful snack that consists of crispy hollow puris filled with a mixture of tangy tamarind chutney, spicy mint-coriander water, and a combination of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, or other fillings.
If you’re celebrating pani puri, here are a few suggestions to make it a memorable event:
- Pani Puri Bar: Set up a DIY pani puri bar with all the necessary ingredients. Arrange a variety of fillings, such as boiled potatoes, cooked chickpeas, sprouts, chopped onions, and sev (crunchy chickpea noodles). Have bowls of tangy tamarind chutney, spicy mint-coriander water, and some sweet chutney as well. Display a tray of crispy puris for everyone to enjoy.
- Invitations: Create fun and colorful invitations in the shape of pani puris or small puri containers. Invite your friends and family to join the celebration and let them know about the delicious pani puris that await them.
- Pani Puri Challenge: Organize a friendly pani puri eating competition or challenge among your guests. Set a timer and see who can eat the most pani puris within a specific time limit. It’s a lighthearted activity that adds excitement and laughter to the celebration.
- Decorations: Decorate your space with vibrant Indian-themed decorations. Hang colorful streamers, fairy lights, and banners with pani puri illustrations. You can also place small pots of fresh mint and coriander leaves as part of the decor.
- Music and Dance: Create a playlist of lively Bollywood or Indian fusion music to set the mood. Encourage your guests to dance and enjoy themselves while relishing the delicious pani puris. It adds to the festive atmosphere and brings everyone together.
- Variety of Flavors: Experiment with different pani puri flavors to offer your guests a unique experience. Consider adding variations like spicy pani (water), fruity pani, or even fusion flavors like cheese-filled puris or paneer tikka pani puri. This way, you can surprise your guests with unexpected and delightful combinations.
Pani Puri Day 2023
Recipe for making pani puri at home
Ingredients:
- For the Puris:
- 1 cup semolina (sooji/rava)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- A pinch of salt
- Water (as needed)
- Oil (for deep frying)
- For the Pani:
- 1 cup mint leaves
- ½ cup coriander leaves
- 2 green chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 1 small lemon (juiced)
- 2 tablespoons tamarind pulp
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon black salt (kala namak)
- Salt to taste
- Water (as needed)
- For the Filling:
- 2 medium-sized boiled potatoes (mashed)
- ½ cup boiled chickpeas
- Tamarind chutney
- Sev (crunchy chickpea noodles)
- Chopped onions (optional)
Pani Puri Day 2023
Instructions:
1.
In a mixing bowl, combine the semolina, all-purpose flour, and salt for the puris. Gradually add water and knead into a stiff dough. Cover the dough and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
2.
Meanwhile, prepare the pani. In a blender, add mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, lemon juice, tamarind pulp, chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and regular salt. Blend until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding water as needed. Transfer the pani to a serving jug and refrigerate until ready to use.
3.
Now, shape the puris. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a thin circle on a lightly floured surface. Cut out small circles using a round cookie cutter or a lid. Repeat the process with the remaining dough.
4.
Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the puris and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
5.
To assemble, make a small hole in each puri by gently tapping it with your thumb. Fill each puri with a spoonful of mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, a drizzle of tamarind chutney, and sprinkle some sev on top. You can also add chopped onions for added crunch and flavor.
6.
Serve the filled puris with the chilled pani. To enjoy, pick up a filled puri, dip it into the pani, and savor the explosion of flavors in your mouth!
Pani puri is best enjoyed immediately after assembling to maintain the crispness of the puris. You can adjust the spiciness and tanginess of the pani according to your taste preferences. Have fun making and relishing this popular Indian street food!
Pros and Cons of Pani Puri
Pani puri, like any food, has its potential benefits and potential harms. Here are some general points to consider:
Benefits of Pani Puri Pros:
- Source of Nutrients: Pani puri fillings, such as boiled potatoes, chickpeas, and sprouts, provide essential nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Hydration: The flavored waters (pani) in pani puri often contain ingredients like mint, coriander, and lemon juice, which can help hydrate the body and provide a refreshing sensation.
- Taste and Enjoyment: Pani puri is a beloved street food known for its unique combination of flavors and textures. It can be a source of culinary enjoyment and provide a satisfying eating experience.
Harms of Pani Puri Cons:
- Hygiene Concerns: Since pani puri is commonly sold as street food, there can be concerns about hygiene and food safety. It is important to ensure that the puris, fillings, and pani are prepared and stored in clean conditions to avoid potential foodborne illnesses.
- Caloric Intake: Pani puri is a fried snack and can be high in calories. The addition of sweet chutney, sev, and excessive fillings can further increase the calorie content. Excessive consumption of pani puri may contribute to weight gain and other health issues if not consumed in moderation.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients used in pani puri, such as chickpeas, wheat, or specific spices. It is important to be aware of any personal dietary restrictions or allergies when consuming pani puri.
- Digestive Issues: The spicy and tangy flavors in pani puri, along with the fried puris, can sometimes cause digestive discomfort or acidity in individuals with sensitive stomachs. People with digestive conditions like gastritis or acid reflux may need to exercise caution while consuming pani puri.
It’s important to note that the potential harms of pani puri can be mitigated by consuming it in moderation, ensuring proper hygiene during preparation, and being mindful of personal dietary restrictions and sensitivities. If you have specific health concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
Pani Puri Day 2023
Pani Puri Day 2023
