The list of my favorite street food is quite extensive and it ranges from the humble-vada pav of Mumbai to the Paneer kathi roll from Kathi roll company NYC but i have a soft spot for Jhal Muri.
Jhal –Muri is one of the most popular street foods of Calcutta, India. So what is this ubiquitous street food all about?? Well It’s made with puffed rice, potato, onions, fresh coconut, chilies, fresh coriander and salted peanuts…drizzled with the aromatic mustard oil tossed with a special spice mix which includes red chili powder, cumin powder, clove powder etc served in a humble paper cone. A very simple dish but when eaten one experiences burst of different flavors. Its tangy, salty and crunchy all at once.
I was introduced to this snack by my bhabhi (sister-in-law) and have fond memories which go all the way back to my school days when I had heaps of work and assignments to finish and she would make it loving each and every time I craved for something fun to eat . A perfect snack for hot and humid weather or when you’re just in mood to cook up something quick.
Have made a simple version as it can be quickly made with basic ingredients found in one’s pantry.
When I saw the Monthly Mingle event a brilliant concept by Meeta from What’s for Lunch Honey.
This month it’s hosted by one of my favorite bloggers Zizi from Zizi’s Adventures I knew I had to include this one.
Jhal-Muri
Ingredients
200 gms puffed rice or muri
3 Tbsp sev (Bengal gram vermicelli)
2 Tbsp salted peanuts
1 boiled potato chopped
1 onion finely chopped
2Tbsp chopped raw mango
2 Green Chilies finely chopped
2-3 Tbsp fresh coconut grated or chopped
3 tbsp Spice Mix
Juice of half a lemon
2 Tbsp Olive oil
Salt to taste
Some crushed crispy papdi (optional)
For The Spice Mix
Dry Roast 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp clove and 4-5 peppercorns and grind them in a grinder or with help of mortar and pestle then mix 1 tsp red chili powder. This mix can also be made in a larger quantity and stored in an air tight container.
Method:
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
Add the spice mix.
Lastly drizzle the oil and lemon juice and serve immediately
Enjoy.
Yellow Butterfly 