Authentic Bengali Street Food: Jhal Muri Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups puffed rice (muri)
  • 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium-sized tomato, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
  • 1/4 cup boiled and diced potatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup raw mango, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons mustard oil
  • 1 teaspoon chaat masala
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon black salt
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1/2 cup sev (crispy chickpea noodles)
  • 1/4 cup grated coconut (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, tomato, green chilies, boiled and diced potatoes, roasted peanuts, and raw mango (if using).
  2. Add chaat masala, red chili powder, black salt, and mustard oil. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
  3. Add the puffed rice to the bowl and mix well. Ensure the puffed rice is well incorporated with the other ingredients and has absorbed the flavors.
  4. Add the fresh juice of one lemon and give it a final mix.
  5. Garnish the Jhal Muri with sev, finely chopped coriander leaves, and grated coconut (if using).
  6. Serve immediately to retain the crunchiness of the puffed rice. Jhal Muri is traditionally served in a paper cone or bowl.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine and mix all the ingredients.
  • Chopping Knife - A sharp knife for finely chopping the onion, tomato, green chilies, and coriander leaves.
  • Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for safely chopping the vegetables.
  • Measuring Cups - To accurately measure the quantities of puffed rice, peanuts, boiled potatoes, etc.
  • Spoon - For mixing the ingredients and ensuring they are well combined.
  • Lemon Squeezer - A tool to extract the juice from the lemon.
  • Sev Sifter - A utensil to sprinkle the sev on top of the Jhal Muri.
  • Grater - For grating coconut, if using.

Recipe variations

  • Add chopped cucumber or grated carrots for additional crunch and freshness.
  • Include finely chopped raw papaya or green mango for a tangier flavor.
  • For a spicier version, add finely chopped green chilies or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Replace mustard oil with olive oil or any other preferred cooking oil.
  • Add a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder for an earthy flavor.
  • Include roasted cashews or almonds for added richness.
  • For a protein boost, add boiled chickpeas or cooked shredded chicken.
  • Experiment with different chutneys such as tamarind, mint, or yogurt-based chutneys for a unique twist.

Recipe overview

Jhal Muri is a popular street food snack from Kolkata, India, known for its perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. This delicious and easy-to-make snack is made with puffed rice mixed with a variety of spices, vegetables, and a hint of mustard oil. Its name literally translates to "spicy puffed rice". This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create your own Jhal Muri at home. Expect a delightful crunch with every bite, and a burst of flavors that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Kolkata. Whether you're craving a tasty snack or looking for an easy appetizer for a gathering, Jhal Muri is a great option. Enjoy it fresh to appreciate the crunch of the puffed rice against the softness of the boiled potatoes and the tangy chew of the raw mango.

Common questions

  1. Can I use any other type of rice? Jhal Muri is traditionally made with puffed rice (muri), which gives it a unique texture. It is recommended to use puffed rice for the best results.
  2. Can I substitute mustard oil? Mustard oil adds a distinct flavor to Jhal Muri, but if you don't have it, you can use any other neutral oil like vegetable oil or canola oil.
  3. Can I skip any of the ingredients? Jhal Muri is a versatile recipe, so you can customize it to your preference. Feel free to omit or adjust any ingredients based on your taste.
  4. Can I make Jhal Muri in advance? It is best to serve Jhal Muri immediately after preparing it to retain its crunchiness. If you need to make it in advance, you can prepare the mixture of chopped vegetables and spices, but add the puffed rice and garnishes just before serving.
  5. Can I store leftovers? Jhal Muri is meant to be enjoyed fresh, but if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container. However, note that the puffed rice may lose its crispiness over time.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Jhal Muri is a popular street snack that hails from the cultural potpourri of Bengal, a region spanning across eastern India and Bangladesh. Born out of the bustling lanes of Kolkata, Jhal Muri is a testament to the city's love for piquant flavors and quick eats. A quintessential part of the city's street food culture, the snack is known for its delightful blend of taste, texture, and aroma. The humble snack is often sold by vendors from portable stalls, and its preparation is quite a spectacle to watch. A rhythmic clanging sound fills the air as the vendor tosses and mixes the ingredients in a metal bowl, capturing the lively, vibrant spirit of Kolkata's streets. The beauty of Jhal Muri lies in its simplicity and versatility, just like the city it comes from. As Kolkata has evolved over the years, so has Jhal Muri, with new variations popping up, each one as tantalizing as the original. It's not just a snack, it's a taste of Kolkata's soul.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.