How to prepare Indian bhaji puri

How to prepare Indian pani puri span>

Bhaji Puri is a delicious Indian dish consisting of a spicy vegetable curry (bhaji) served with deep-fried bread (puri). It's a popular street food and a favorite snack in many parts of India. Here's a basic recipe for Bhaji Puri:

**Ingredients:**

**For the Bhaji (Vegetable Curry):**

- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, etc.), chopped

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice level)

- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced

- 2-3 tablespoons oil

- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 tablespoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- 1 tablespoon coriander powder

- 1/2 tablespoon garam masala

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

- Lemon wedges (optional)

**For the Puri (Fried Bread):**

- 1 cup whole wheat flour

- 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- Water, as needed

- Oil, for deep frying

**Instructions:**

**For the Bhaji (Vegetable Curry):**

1. Heat oil in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

2. Add asafoetida (hing), minced ginger, minced garlic, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

4. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the oil begins to separate from the spices.

5. Add the chopped mixed vegetables and mix well. Cook for a couple of minutes.

6. Add water, enough to cover the vegetables. Cover the pan and let the vegetables simmer until they are tender. You may need to add more water if it dries out.

7. Once the vegetables are cooked, mash them slightly using a potato masher or the back of a spoon. You want a chunky consistency.

8. Add garam masala and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Adjust the salt and spice level if needed.

9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and lemon wedges. Keep the bhaji warm while you prepare the puris.

**For the Puri (Fried Bread):**

1. In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, semolina, and salt.

2. Gradually add water and knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. The dough should be firm, not too soft. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai over medium-high heat.

4. Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a smooth ball.

5. Roll out each ball into a small circle (about 3-4 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin.

6. Carefully slide one puri into the hot oil. It should puff up immediately. Press it down gently with a slotted spoon to ensure it puffs evenly. Fry until it's golden brown on both sides.

7. Remove the puri from the oil and drain on paper towels.

**To Serve:**

Serve the hot bhaji with the puris. You can also serve it with chopped onions and some tamarind chutney for added flavor. Enjoy your homemade Bhaji Puri!