The history of Indian Pani Puri- How did they survive for centuries?

Pani puri is a tongue-satisfying Indian street food. It comes out as crispy, fluffy dough balls filled with masala potato and veggies. Each plate is also served with chutney and dipping water.

Pani puri lovers delight with every bite, whether from a street vendor or a catering service at a social gathering. Additionally, culinary modifications make it a signature dish.

In this article, I'll reveal the history and journey of Pani Puri from its invention to the present day. I'll also discuss the delicious variants across India that the younger generation loves. Getting hungry? Let's eat balls.

Types of Pani Puri

Pani puri in English is called “water bread.” Regionally, various names exist, but India loves this snack.

1. Pani Puri in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
2. Puchka in West Bengal and Assam
3. Golgappa in North India
4. Pakkodi in Gujarat
5. Patashe in Haryana
6. Patashi in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh
7. Gup chup in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Hyderabad, and Telangana
8. Pulkin in Uttar Pradesh

Who invented Pani Puri?

What is the first place the poori gets fried? Well, Pani Puri's history has two dimensions. One is mystical, and the other is historical.

First, let's look at the mystical side. The source and origin of this exotic dish are unclear. According to a famous oral story, Draupati from the Mahabharatha invented pani puri. Pandavas, their mother Kunti, and Draupadi were exiled after losing the kingdom. They had leftover vegetables and wheat dough during the meal. Kunti challenged Draupati to make a meal out of it, satisfying her sons' hunger. Draupadi, the recently wed bride, won the challenge by preparing golgappa. Kunti was fascinated by the draupati's cooking with limited resources. Following that victory, Kunti blessed the masterpiece with eternity.

Second, the historical origin of Pani puri. The Magadha kingdom, currently in west-central Bihar state, was identified as the origin of these taste bombs. The unknown chef of the Magadha kingdom invented the Pulkis, the precursor to Pani puri. Culinary invention dates back to 600 B.C. However, the background remains to be discovered.

Bonus history

Culinary anthropologist Kurush Dalal says a contrasting origin for pani puri. Kurush's theory says King Raj Kachori stuffed potatoes and sauce into golgappas. Based on this theory, the invented piece was the forerunner of the existing version.

Trendy modifications in Pani Puri

Roadside chefs and restaurants adjust and modify spices according to regional people's tastes. The dish evolved throughout its existence. A few cities are known for their unique and best crispy balls toppings, chutneys, and dunking water dishes. Ingredients are listed below.

Topping

1. White peas curry
2. Boiled potatoes, moong dal
3. Boiled gram and potatoes
4. Potato and chickpea stuffing
5. Potato and onion stuffing

Chutney and dunking water

1. Meetha (Tamarind) chutney
2. Dates chutney
3. Tangy chutney with spicy water
4. Mint chutney and tangy-spicy water
5. Sweet chutney and mint water with green chillies

The bars of big cities diversify and alter this snack to a significant extent. "A Tequila shot and Pani puri '' Wow! Scotch and wine replace spicy and tangy waters. Crispy pooris and alcoholic elements make every shot epic and memorable.

Panipuri day

On July 12, 2015, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, a local restaurant (Indori Zayka) broke a world record. Under chef Neha Shah, 51 filling and chutney flavor offerings were presented. This day is celebrated as Pani Puri Day in India.

Culinary artists will still find room for exciting varieties of golgappas. No wonder these delicious lip-smacking puris are a symbol and pride of India.

How to eat pani puri

Masala-loaded puris are enough to taste with tasty spices and tanginess. But, eating this celebrated golgappa chat has a desi way.

1. Initially, take one puri and poke with the thumb to make a hole in the middle.

2. Choose the variants of masala available in the shop. Mashed, semi-mashed, diced potatoes and chickpeas are available to choose from. You can add onion and carrots if you need them to be extra special.

3. Fill up the hole with mashed masala ingredients as much as you need.

4. Similarly, select the sweet or sour chutney and dipping water, which can be sour, salty, or spicy.

5. Add some chutney and dip in the water of your choice.

6. Here comes the eating part, consume each Pani puri one after the other without breaking and sogging.

Why is Pani Puri famous in India?

1. Easily available-Golgappas are easily and readily available. You may be in a small street or big restaurant; spotting this culinary gem is damn easy. In short, it is a belly filler anywhere and everywhere.
2. Flavor for taste buds-Wide range of fillings, masala, chutney, and dipping water add magical flavors are enough to satisfy longing taste buds. Eaters tune and balance the sweet, tangy, and spice flavors to make the snack time to be content.
3. Calorie consciousness- Unlike other fast foods, Pani puri is not high in calories. The filling chickpeas, peas, and moong dal are protein-rich as an added advantage. Also, the wheat dough pooris are stomach filling. Thus, they are perfect for calorie-conscious men and women.
4. Pocket friendly- You will not get a hefty bill after a plate of serving. Indians are economical and pani puri fits in the budget.
5. Mood elevator- Sad or happy, spicy puri with your close kin can boost your mood. Busy or leisurely person, including a golgappa session in your time chart cannot disappoint you.

Instant Pani puri kit

Instant packets are available for those who avoid street and outside food. People prefer these ready-made kits for hygiene reasons. These kits are user-friendly and help you prepare faster. Instant poori kits are available now. Some of the famous Pani Puri kits in India are mentioned here,

1. Aachi Pani puri kit

2. Kwality Pani puri kit

3. Shareat Pani puri kit

4. SLM puchka or Gupchup kit

Conclusion

Pani puri is one of Indians' irresistible snacks. Its history is uncertain, but its variants and modifications keep winning the hearts of new generations. Sharing a plate with friends and family can be one of the most rewarding bonding activities. Are you craving these crispy, tasty balls? Get one and have it as you wish.