Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Jhargram in Bengal. During his campaign, he made an unexpected stop; why? For a quick jhalmuri break! When in West Bengal, how can one miss out on this famous and popular Bengali snack? Here’s all you need to know and how to make it at home!
What Is Jhalmuri?
If you love spicy and crunchy street food, then try Jhalmuri. It is a popular snack from Kolkata, West Bengal. This snack is made by mixing puffed rice, also known as muri, with mustard oil, spices, and chopped veggies. With every bite, you’ll love it for its spicy kick and signature mustard flavour.
Jhalmuri came into the spotlight in Kolkata around the time of World War II. Bihari migrant workers started selling this spicy puffed rice on the streets, especially to British and American soldiers in the city. They added simple muri snacks, masala, mustard oil, and crunch, turning them into the chatpata street food.
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How Jhalmuri Is Different From Bhelpuri?
Bhel puri is a popular street snack from Mumbai. It is made with crispy puffed rice mixed with sweet tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, onions, tomatoes, peanuts, and sev. This chat is known for its mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours, making it a go-to snack for all age groups.
Jhalmuri, from Kolkata, may look similar but tastes quite different. Instead of chutneys, it uses mustard oil and dry spices, giving it a sharper, spicier kick. While Bhelpuri is sweeter and tangier, Jhalmuri stands out for its bold flavour and crunchy texture.
Quick And Simple Jhalmuri Recipe
Ingredients:
Crisp puffed rice (muri)
Mustard oil
Roasted peanuts
Chanachur (spicy mixture)
Boiled potatoes
Chopped onions
Tomatoes
Green chillies
Coriander
Black salt
Chaat masala
Lemon juice
Peanuts
Ginger
Recipe:
1. Heat a pan on low flame and dry roast the puffed rice for 2–3 minutes until crisp and crunchy.
2. Switch off the heat and immediately add all the spice powders and salt. Mix well so the heat enhances the flavour. Let it cool slightly.
3. Add roasted peanuts to the puffed rice mixture with some chopped onions, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, cucumber, green chillies, and ginger.
5. Mix everything gently but quickly, and pour some mustard oil and lemon juice.
7. To make it more crunchy, add sev or chana chur.
8. Then add some chopped coriander leaves and serve immediately for the best crunchy and spicy taste.
Have you tried this popular snack yet? Tell us in the comments below!
Also Read: Cardiologist Reveals 5 Surprisingly Healthy Street Food Snacks In India
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/ @narendramodi & Wikipedia
FAQs
In which place in India is jhalmuri famous?
Jhalmuri is a famous street food snack in Kolkata, and it’s a must-try.
Is Jhalmuri is different than Bhelpuri?
Yes, Jhalmuri tastes different from bhelpuri. Jhalmuri has a signature mustard flavour, while bhelpuri tastes delicious with chutneys.
What did Prime Minister Narendra Modi try in West Bengal?
In West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tried the famous Jhalmuri.