Jhal Muri: The Ultimate Street Food Adventure in Your Kitchen

Step into the vibrant world of Indian street food with a recipe that embodies the essence of flavor, crunch, and zest - Jhal Muri. This popular snack, hailing from the streets of Kolkata, is a delightful medley of puffed rice, crunchy vegetables, and an array of spices. Join us on this culinary journey as we unravel the secrets of making the perfect Jhal Muri in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 Cups puffed rice (murmura)
• 1 Cup peanuts, roasted
• 1 Cup sev (thin gram flour noodles)
• 1 Cup chopped cucumber
• 1 Cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 Cup chopped red onions
• 1 Cup chopped green chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 Cup chopped fresh coriander leaves
• 1 Cup chopped raw mango (optional)
• 2 Tablespoons mustard oil
• 1 Tablespoon mustard paste
• 1 Tablespoon tamarind pulp
• 1 Teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• 1 Teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Chaat masala for sprinkling
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the puffed rice, roasted peanuts, sev, chopped cucumber, tomatoes, onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, and raw mango (if using).
2. In a separate mixing bowl, mix mustard oil, mustard paste, tamarind pulp, roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt to create a flavorful dressing.
3. Pour the prepared dressing over the puffed rice mixture. Gently toss the ingredients, ensuring an even coating of the dressing.
4. Sprinkle chaat masala over the Jhal Muri for an extra burst of flavor. Adjust salt and spice levels according to your taste.
5. Jhal Muri is best enjoyed fresh. Serve immediately, and garnish with additional coriander leaves if desired.
6. Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the Jhal Muri for a citrusy kick.
7. Dive into the world of Kolkata street food with each crunchy, flavorful bite of homemade Jhal Muri. Share with friends or savor it solo - either way, it's a culinary adventure worth savoring.

Jhal Muri is not just a snack; it's an experience that captures the spirit of Indian street food. With its explosion of textures, flavors, and aromas, this recipe brings the bustling streets of Kolkata right to your home. Whether you're reminiscing about street food adventures or discovering the joy for the first time, Jhal Muri is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, let the spices dance, and embark on a journey of taste with this delightful recipe!