Masala Puri Chaat Recipe: A Flavorful Karnataka Snack
Masala Puri is a beloved chaat from Karnataka, renowned for its burst of flavors and irresistible crunch. This delightful dish is made with boiled green peas, which are infused with a freshly roasted and ground masala, then served on crispy pani puris. With its perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes, Masala Puri Chaat is an ideal snack for any occasion, especially during tea time or as part of a chaat party.
This recipe is vegetarian and easy to prepare, featuring a combination of simple yet vibrant ingredients. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious treat at home.
Ingredients for Masala Puri Chaat
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried Green Peas (Vatana) | 2 cups |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Tomato, finely chopped | 1 |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 tablespoons |
| Pani Puris (fried) | 2 cups |
| Sev (thin) | ½ cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Chutney (Coriander & Mint) | 2 tablespoons |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chilli | 2 |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal per serving |
| Protein | ~8g |
| Carbohydrates | ~45g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Fiber | ~8g |
| Sodium | ~200mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific brands and quantities used.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions for Masala Puri Chaat
-
Soak and Cook the Green Peas:
- Begin by washing the dried green peas thoroughly and soaking them in water overnight.
- The next morning, drain the water and rinse the peas again.
- Pressure cook the soaked peas with 2 cups of water for about 3 whistles or until they are soft and well-cooked. Once done, set them aside.
-
Roast and Prepare the Spice Masala:
- In a pan, dry roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and dry red chilies over low heat until they release a fragrant aroma. This should take around 2-3 minutes.
- Allow the roasted spices to cool down before grinding them into a fine powder using a mixer or spice grinder. Set the freshly ground masala aside.
-
Prepare the Green Peas Masala:
- In the same pan, return the cooked green peas to heat. Add the freshly ground masala powder, and season with salt to taste.
- Using the back of the ladle, slightly mash the peas to help absorb the flavors of the spices. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency to your preference.
- Allow the masala to simmer for 3-4 minutes, ensuring that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Once done, remove from heat.
-
Assemble the Masala Puri Chaat:
- To assemble, take a plate and crush a handful of crispy fried pani puris roughly with your hands.
- Spoon a generous amount of the hot green peas masala over the crushed puris.
- Drizzle a teaspoon of green chutney made with coriander and mint for a refreshing tang.
- Garnish with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of sev for that extra crunch.
- Add a few fresh coriander leaves for an aromatic finish, and squeeze the juice of ¼ lemon on top.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Masala Puri Chaat immediately as a tasty evening snack with a hot cup of Masala Chai or serve it as part of your next chaat party, alongside other favorites like Peanut Chaat With Spiced Yogurt or Homemade Canape Papdi Chaat.
Tips for Making Perfect Masala Puri Chaat
- Puris: If you cannot find pre-made pani puris, you can easily substitute them with any small, crispy puris or puffed rice (murmura) for a similar texture.
- Green Chutney: The flavor of green chutney can significantly alter the taste of the dish. Feel free to adjust the mint and coriander to your liking, adding a little more green chili if you prefer extra spice.
- Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the masala to your preference. If you like a more soupy texture, add more water; for a thicker masala, keep it as it is.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, ensure that the sev used is plant-based, as some varieties may contain dairy.
Serving Suggestions
Masala Puri Chaat is best served immediately while the pani puris are crunchy and fresh. Pair it with a refreshing Masala Chai for the perfect snack experience. You can also make it the centerpiece of a chaat party, offering a variety of other popular Indian snacks like Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri, and Samosas.
This dish also works great as a light dinner or an appetizer for a gathering, offering a unique combination of textures and flavors that will impress your guests. Its spicy, tangy, and savory notes make it an unforgettable addition to any meal.
Enjoy the vibrant taste of Karnataka right in your home with this delightful Masala Puri Chaat recipe.
