Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Spiced Water (Pani): Rinse coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, and ginger thoroughly. Roughly chop all ingredients, removing mint stems to avoid bitterness.
- Blend the Green Chutney: Add coriander, mint, ginger, green chilies, tamarind, jaggery, cumin powder, chaat masala, and 1/3 cup water to a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Dilute the Pani: Transfer the chutney to a large bowl. Rinse the blender with 1/2 cup water and add to the bowl. Add remaining 1/2-3/4 cup water and black salt. Mix well and adjust seasoning.
- Chill the Pani: Add boondi if using. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Prepare Potato Filling: Boil potatoes until tender (15-20 minutes). Cool, peel, and chop into small cubes.
- Season the Filling: Mix chopped potatoes with onion (if using), coriander leaves, cumin powder, chaat masala, red chili powder, and black salt. Set aside.
- Assemble Pani Puri: Carefully crack the top of each puri with a spoon or your thumb to create an opening.
- Fill and Serve: Add 2-3 teaspoons of potato filling to each puri. Stir the chilled pani and fill each puri with the spiced water. Serve immediately to maintain crispiness.
- Eating Instructions: Pop each filled puri into your mouth in one bite to experience the full burst of flavors without making a mess.
Notes
Storage Tips: Pani can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Always assemble just before serving to prevent soggy puris.
Variations: You can substitute potato filling with boiled chickpeas, moong sprouts, or ragda (white pea curry) for different flavors.
Spice Level: Adjust green chilies according to your heat preference. Start with 1 chili for mild spice.
Authenticity Note: This recipe combines both sweet and spicy elements in one pani, eliminating the need for separate sweet chutney while maintaining traditional flavors.