5 Delicious Twists To The Classic Pani Puri

All over the country, Pani Puri is perhaps one of the most popularly adored roadside dishes. The name of this heavenly preparation might vary across the nation, from Pani Ke Batashe in Uttar Pradesh to  Gup-Chup in Odisha, and from Phuchka in West Bengal to Gol Gappa in Delhi. But no matter where you go, the sentiment towards Pani Puri remains the same. 

Just like chai or coffee, how you prefer your Pani Puri, is a very personal thing. Some fans like theirs sweet while others enjoy it spicy or tangy. The classic recipe comes filled with mashed potato and chole, accompanied by a sweet tamarind chutney and topped off with a mouthwatering spicy or sweet water mix. But, adding a few twists to the recipe, is sure to leave you pleasantly surprised. So, while you’re figuring out ways to satiate your cravings and create the perfect Pani Puri at home, we've listed 5 delicious twists you can add to the mix.

1. Tomato Juice

If you are someone who enjoys tangy, sharp flavours then this twist is perfect for you. Adding some tomato juice to your Pani Puri, is sure to make your favourite street food taste a lot like a Virgin Bloody Mary. Throw in some Tobasco as well, to add a hint of chilli and enhance the explosion of flavours.

Ingredients

• Classic Pani Puri with filling 

• Lightly-spiced coriander juice

• Tamarind chutney

• Tomato juice (½  tsp per Pani Puri) 

• Tabasco (¼ tsp per Pani Puri) 

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2. Pineapple

This twist is for the ones who just can’t do without their sweet fix, even while indulging in savoury dishes! Adding pineapple juice or a few finely diced cubes of pineapple to your Pani Puri will give it an unusual sweet-and-spicy flavour. My personal favourite mix is adding a bit of black salt for some enhanced Desi-ness. 

Ingredients

• Classic Pani Puri with filling  

• Lightly-spiced coriander juice

• Tamarind chutney

• Pineapple juice or diced pieces (½ tsp per Pani Puri or 2 to 3 pieces per Pani Puri)

• Black salt (to taste)

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3. Curd

Papdi chaat is incomplete without curd. Why not add it to your Pani Puri as well? Combine mint and tamarind chutney and some garlic with your curd. The resulting taste is similar to some chilled Chaas or Lassi. This twist is cooling as well refreshing, perfect for the sweltering heat outside! 

Ingredients

• Classic Pani Puri with filling  

• Lightly-spiced coriander juice

• Tamarind chutney(¼ tsp per Pani Puri)

• Curd (½ tsp per Pani Puri)

• Mint chutney (¼ tsp per Pani Puri)

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4. Avocado Salsa 

For a Mexican twist, toss some finely chopped tomatoes, avocados, green and red peppers, onions and garlic in some oil and saute them for a few minutes. Don't forget to top the mixture off with some lemon juice and some spices of your choice, once you take it off the flame.

Ingredients

• Classic Pani Puri with filling

• Lightly-spiced coriander juice

• Tamarind chutney

• Avocado salsa (½ tsp per Pani Puri)

• Spices (to taste)

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5. Berries 

Raspberries, cranberries, blackberries or raisins, can add a sweet-and-sour flavour to your Pani Puri. The combination successfully breaks the monotony of spice, and also brings health into the recipe! 

Ingredients

• Classic Pani Puri with filling

• Lightly-spiced coriander juice

• Tamarind chutney

• Berries of choice 

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We hope these five twists have put a smile on your face and made your mouth water! Go ahead and try them out and don’t forget to tell us about your favourite twist.