Jhal Muri (Spicy Puffed Rice) Recipe – A Bengali Snack Delight
Jhal Muri, also known as Jhal Moodi, is an iconic and flavorful street snack from the bustling streets of Kolkata, India. This quick and easy treat captures the essence of Bengali flavors with a tangy, spicy crunch that will transport you to the vibrant lanes of Kolkata with every bite. Unlike its Mumbai counterpart, Bhel Puri, Jhal Muri is less dependent on chutneys and sev, instead relying on the bold flavors of mustard oil and a unique Muri Masala mix that make it stand out. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or with a cup of Masala Chai, Jhal Muri is the perfect combination of textures and tastes—crispy, tangy, spicy, and utterly satisfying!
This recipe brings together crispy puffed rice with fresh vegetables, roasted peanuts, dry coconut, and a few essential seasonings to make a mouthwatering snack. The secret to its distinct flavor lies in the mustard oil and the Muri Masala, which infuse the puffed rice with a tantalizing aroma and an addictive heat. This simple yet flavorful snack can be prepared in minutes and is perfect for those looking to try something new in the realm of savory street food.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puffed rice | 3 cups |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Cucumber | 1/4 cup, chopped fine |
| Potato (Aloo) | 1, boiled and diced |
| Tomato | 1, chopped fine |
| Green Chillies | 2, chopped fine |
| Roasted Peanuts (Moongphali) | 2 tablespoons |
| Dry coconut (kopra) | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 sprigs, chopped |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Muri Masala | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard oil | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 120mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the puffed rice, finely chopped onion, cucumber, boiled and diced potato, chopped tomato, and green chilies. Add the roasted peanuts, chopped dry coconut, and fresh coriander leaves for an added crunch and flavor boost. -
Mix and Flavor:
Add the lemon juice, muri masala, and mustard oil to the bowl. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all the ingredients are well-coated with the spices and the mustard oil. The mustard oil will bring a sharp, aromatic flavor to the mixture, and the muri masala will give it the signature tang and spice. -
Taste and Adjust:
Once mixed, taste the Jhal Muri and check the salt, spice, and tanginess levels. Adjust the seasoning according to your personal preference—add more lemon juice for tang or extra green chilies for heat, if desired. -
Serve Immediately:
Jhal Muri is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it immediately as a snack, accompanied by a steaming cup of Masala Chai for the perfect street food experience.
Tips for the Best Jhal Muri:
- Muri Masala: This spice mix is the heart of Jhal Muri, and it’s often available in Bengali stores or online. If you can’t find it, a mix of chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, and black salt can make a reasonable substitute.
- Customization: Feel free to add more ingredients like boiled chickpeas, grated carrots, or fresh pomegranate seeds to make the snack even more exciting.
- Serving: While traditionally served in paper cones by street vendors, you can serve Jhal Muri in bowls or plates, but don’t let it sit too long before eating—it’s best when it’s crunchy!
Conclusion
Jhal Muri is a delicious and vibrant Bengali snack that packs a flavorful punch without being overly complex. With its perfect balance of crunch, spice, tang, and freshness, it’s no wonder that this snack has captured the hearts and palates of Kolkata’s street food lovers. Quick to prepare and highly customizable, it’s the perfect dish for when you’re craving something light yet full of bold flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it during tea time or as a quick bite, Jhal Muri brings the authentic taste of Kolkata straight to your kitchen!
