A popular street snack of India, Bhel Puri is a mixture of puffed rice, onions, tomatoes, sev, chaat masala, and other tangy spices.

1 serving (130 g) of Bhel Puri contains approximately 351 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie snack option. It is also a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits and drawbacks of Bhel Puri, different variations and substitutes, and tips for making and serving Bhel Puri at home.

What is Bhel Puri?

Bhel Puri is a popular snack from India, especially in Mumbai. It is made by mixing puffed rice, chopped onions, tomatoes, and spices like coriander, lemon juice, and tamarind chutney. Sev, a crispy fried noodle made from chickpea flour, is also added to give crunchiness to the snack. Often served with a garnish of chopped coriander leaves and green chilies, Bhel Puri is a perfect snack to enjoy in the evenings.

How Many Calories Does Bhel Puri Contains?

1 serving (130 g) of Bhel Puri contains approximately 351 calories. While this may seem high, it is still relatively low for a snack. It is also a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber, making it a filling and satisfying snack option that can keep you full for a while. However, it is important to keep in mind that Bhel Puri is often high in sodium and sugar, especially if you buy it from street vendors. It is advisable to enjoy it in moderation and make it at home with healthier ingredients if possible.

What Are the Ingredients of Bhel Puri?

The main ingredients of Bhel Puri are:

• Puffed rice
• Onions
• Tomatoes
• Sev (fried chickpea flour noodles)
• Spices (chaat masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, etc.)
• Lemon juice
• Tamarind chutney
• Chopped coriander leaves and green chilies (for garnish)

However, different regions and households may have their own variations of the recipe.

Is Bhel Puri Healthy?

Bhel Puri can be a healthy snack option if made with fresh, wholesome ingredients and in moderation. It is a good source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and some essential vitamins and minerals. However, Bhel Puri sold by street vendors may be high in sodium and sugar, which can be harmful to health in the long run. It is always advisable to make the snack at home with healthier ingredients, such as baked or roasted puffed rice instead of fried, and using homemade chutneys instead of store-bought ones with added preservatives and sugars. Additionally, topping the snack with too much sev or fried snacks can make it high in calories and saturated fats.

How to Make Bhel Puri at Home?

To make Bhel Puri at home, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups puffed rice
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sev (fried chickpea flour noodles)
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tsp chaat masala powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tbsp tamarind chutney
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl and toss well. Adjust the spices, salt, and lemon juice according to your taste. Serve immediately.

The Origin of Bhel Puri

The exact origin of Bhel Puri is unclear. However, it is believed to have originated in Mumbai, India, in the 1940s, as a variation of the traditional chaat (a savory snack typically sold by street vendors). Eventually, it became a popular street food across India, loved by people of all ages.

Different Variations of Bhel Puri

While the basic recipe of Bhel Puri remains the same, there are several variations of the snack available across India. Some of the most popular ones include:

• Dahi Bhel Puri: Bhel Puri topped with fresh yogurt and sev
• Sukha Bhel Puri: Bhel Puri made without any chutneys and served dry
• Bhel and Dahi Sev Puri: A combination of Bhel Puri and Sev Puri (another popular Indian street food), topped with yogurt and chutneys
• Corn Bhel Puri: Bhel Puri with added boiled corn

Where to Find Bhel Puri?

Bhel Puri is a popular street food in India and can be found at most local street vendors or chaat shops. It is also available at some Indian restaurants and fast-food chains, such as McDonald's India and Pizza Hut India. However, it is always advisable to make Bhel Puri at home with fresh, wholesome ingredients to ensure maximum nutritional benefits and avoid any potential health risks.

Tips to Serve Bhel Puri

• Use fresh and wholesome ingredients to make Bhel Puri at home
• Adjust the spices, chutneys, and salt according to your taste preferences
• Serve the snack immediately after mixing to maintain its crunchiness
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and green chilies for added flavor
• Enjoy in moderation as part of a healthy and balanced diet

Alternatives and Substitutes for Bhel Puri

If you are looking for healthier alternatives or substitutes for Bhel Puri, you can try the following:

• Fruit Chaat: A healthy and refreshing fruit salad with a tangy twist
• Mixed Nut Chaat: A nutritious snack made with roasted nuts, spices, and vegetables
• Baked Poha Mix: A low-calorie snack made with baked flattened rice, roasted chickpeas, and spices
• Sprout Salad: A protein-rich salad made with sprouted beans, vegetables, and spices