Get ready for a flavor explosion with Jhal Muri, a popular Bengali street snack that will blow your mind with its spicy, sour, and crispy goodness. With each bite, you’ll experience a wonderful burst of flavors from the combination of puffed rice (muri) and a variety of salty and sour ingredients in this popular delicacy.
Puffed rice is the foundational ingredient of Jhal Muri, and its airy texture is the ideal foil for the robust flavors of the other ingredients. Toss the puffed rice with a variety of chopped veggies, including green chilies, onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers, for a crunchier and more refreshing dish.
The next step in making Jhal Muri taste even better is to add a variety of condiments and spices to the mixture. Some examples of these condiments are tamarind chutney, mustard oil, green chili paste, roasted cumin powder, and chaat masala, which adds an additional kick of flavor.
The ingredients are then violently mixed to incorporate all of the flavors, creating a balanced combination of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory undertones. Roasted peanuts or fried chickpeas make great garnishes for Jhal Muri because they offer texture and protein.
Street sellers in Bengal often sell Jhal Muri in paper cones or bowls, and it’s a favorite snack for people who are on the move. As an added bonus, it’s a popular way to liven up picnics and other low-key get-togethers with loved ones.
Jhal Muri Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups puffed rice murmura
- 1/2 cup peanuts roasted and coarsely crushed
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cucumber finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green mango grated (optional)
- 2 green chilies finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons tamarind chutney
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder adjust to taste
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving optional
- Sev crispy chickpea noodles for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix
- In a small bowl, mix together turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to make the spice mix. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Jhal Muri
- In a large mixing bowl, add puffed rice, crushed peanuts, chopped onion, tomato, cucumber, green chilies, and grated green mango (if using).
- Drizzle tamarind chutney over the ingredients in the bowl.
Step 3: Temper the Spices
- Heat mustard oil or vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter.
- Sprinkle the prepared spice mix (turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt) over the tempering and mix well.
- Remove the pan from heat and allow the tempered spices to cool for a minute.
Step 4: Mix and Serve
- Pour the tempered spice mix over the ingredients in the mixing bowl.
- Add chopped fresh coriander leaves to the bowl.
- Toss all the ingredients together gently until well combined and evenly coated with the spices and chutney.
- Garnish the Jhal Muri with crispy sev (chickpea noodles) for extra crunch (optional).
- Serve Jhal Muri immediately in individual bowls or paper cones.
- Optionally, serve with lemon wedges on the side for added zest.
Tips and Information
Tips and Information
- Puffed Rice: Use fresh and crispy puffed rice for the best texture. Stale or soft puffed rice will result in a soggy Jhal Muri.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to customize the Jhal Muri with your favorite vegetables such as boiled potatoes, grated carrots, or raw mango for added crunch and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- Tamarind Chutney: You can make homemade tamarind chutney or use store-bought chutney for convenience.
- Assembly: Assemble the Jhal Muri just before serving to maintain its crispiness and freshness.
- Storage: Jhal Muri is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a day. However, the puffed rice may lose its crispiness over time.
Jhal Muri will take your taste buds on a journey to the lively streets of Bengal with its addictive crunch and powerful tastes. So, get a taste of Bengal’s lively culinary culture with a handful of these spicy and sour snacks!