Pani Puri, a popular Indian street food, becomes even more delightful with the addition of Hing (asafoetida). Here’s a delicious recipe for making Hing Pani Puri at home.

Ingredients:

For the Puris:

• 1 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• A pinch of baking soda
• Water (as needed)
• Oil (for frying)

For the Hing Pani (Spiced Water):

• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon hing (asafoetida)
• 1/2 cup mint leaves
• 1/2 cup coriander leaves
• 1-2 green chilies
• 1-inch piece of ginger
• 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1 teaspoon black salt
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the Filling:

• 2-3 boiled potatoes, mashed
• 1/2 cup boiled chickpeas (optional)
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

Making the Puris:

• In a mixing bowl, combine semolina, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of baking soda. Add water gradually to form a stiff dough.
• Knead the dough well and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
• Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and cut small circles using a cookie cutter or a small bowl.
• Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the puris until they are golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels and let them cool.

Preparing the Hing Pani:

• In a blender, combine mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, and ginger with a little water. Blend to make a smooth paste.
• In a large bowl, mix the paste with 2 cups of water. Add hing, roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, black salt, regular salt, and lemon juice. Stir well. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Chill the Hing Pani in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Making the Filling:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas (if using), chaat masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

Assembling the Pani Puri:

• Make a small hole in the center of each puri.
• Fill each puri with a spoonful of the potato mixture.
• Dip the filled puri into the chilled Hing Pani and enjoy immediately!

Indulge in the tangy, spicy, and refreshing flavors of Hing Pani Puri!