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Pani Puri (V)
About This Dish
Pani Puri is one of India’s most iconic street foods — it’s a playful, flavour-packed bite that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. For Pani Puri, Crisp, hollow puris (small, puffed-up wheat shells) are delicately cracked open and filled with a tangy-spiced mix of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, or moong sprouts. They’re then dunked or filled with pani — chilled, zesty water made from tamarind, mint, coriander, black salt, and some green chilli. The result is a unique burst of cool, spicy, sour, and sweet flavours all in one explosive mouthful. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to eat five, six, or ten in a row — each one as exciting as the last.
History & Tradition
The roots of Pani Puri trace back centuries, as it’s believed to have originated in the historic kingdom of Magadha (modern-day Bihar, North-East India). Over time, the dish spread across India, evolving with local ingredients and flavours.
The dish has various names across the nation. In West India, it’s known as pani puri; in North India, it becomes gol gappa, and in eastern parts, it’s called phuchka. Despite the regional variations, the joy of eating them remains universal — a beloved part of Indian food culture, especially in bustling markets and roadside stalls. For many, Pani Puri isn’t just a dish, it’s an experience — a nostalgic reminder of outings with friends, evening cravings, and street-side indulgence.
What Makes It Special
Pani Puri is special because it’s a complete flavour journey in one bite — crunchy, tangy, spicy, sweet, and refreshing. The textures contrast beautifully: crisp puri against soft potatoes and cool, spicy pani.
It’s served fast, eaten quickly, and always fresh — made to order, one puri at a time. Unlike heavier curries or snacks, it’s light and zingy, perfect for sharing or snacking. It’s also wonderfully interactive, with many people enjoying it as a group, trying different fillings or spice levels. Whether you’re new to Indian food or a lifelong fan, Pani Puri offers a sensory thrill that’s hard to forget.
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Rhea Mehta
Sev Puri instantly transported me back to the street stalls of Mumbai. The puris were perfectly crisp, and the balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy toppings was spot on. The sev added the perfect crunch. It felt like a bite-sized explosion of flavour. Loved every bit of it and will definitely order again.
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Harriet Cole
This was my first time trying Sev Puri and it was an absolute delight. I loved the crunch of the puris with the creamy potatoes and the zingy tamarind chutney. Each bite was full of exciting textures and flavours. It was light but so satisfying. A must-try if you like bold street food.
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James Whitman
Sev Puri is the kind of snack that surprises you—in the best way. The mix of crispy puris, sweet chutney, and spicy potatoes was addictive. The sev on top gave it that extra crunch I didn’t know I needed. I never thought cold chaat could be this good. Seriously delicious and refreshing.
FAQs
A: Typically, a portion includes 6–8 filled puris, freshly assembled with tangy water right before serving.
A: It can be — but we can adjust the pani to your taste, from mild and sweet to bold and spicy.
A: Yes, it’s usually vegan-friendly, made with plant-based ingredients.
A: Pani Puri is best enjoyed fresh, but we can provide the components separately so you can assemble and enjoy them at home.
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