Healthy Bhel

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup puffed rice (murmura) 
• 1/4 cup roasted chana (chickpeas) 
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cucumber 
• 1/4 cup finely chopped tomato 
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 
• 1/4 cup boiled and chopped potatoes 
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional, but adds a nice sweetness and color) 
• 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts (optional, for crunch) 
• 1-2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 
• 1 tablespoon tamarind chutney (preferably homemade or low sugar) 
• 1 teaspoon green chutney (coriander-mint chutney, optional) 
• 1/4 teaspoon chaat masala 
• 1/4 teaspoon roasted cumin powder 
• 1/4 teaspoon black salt (adjust to taste) 
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish) 
• A pinch of red chili powder (optional, for spice) 

Instructions: 

1. Prep the Ingredients: If you’re using boiled potatoes, peel and chop them into small cubes. 
2. Chop the cucumber, tomato, onion, and pomegranate (if using). 
3. Set all the ingredients aside and keep them ready. 
4. Toast the Puffed Rice (optional but enhances flavor): In a dry pan, lightly toast the puffed rice over low heat for 2-3 minutes. This helps it stay crisp for longer. Let it cool. 
5. Mix the Bhel: In a large mixing bowl, combine the puffed rice, roasted chana, chopped vegetables, boiled potatoes, and pomegranate seeds. Add roasted peanuts if you like extra crunch. 
6. Season the Bhel: Add the lemon juice, tamarind chutney, and green chutney (if using). 
7. Sprinkle the chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and red chili powder (if using). 
8. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated well with the chutneys and spices. 
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the bhel with chopped coriander leaves. 
10. Serve immediately to enjoy the crunchiness of the puffed rice and vegetables. 

Tips: 

For extra nutrition: Add a handful of sprouts (moong dal sprouts or mixed sprouts) or even some grated carrots for more fiber and vitamins. 

For a protein boost: Add a few cubes of paneer or a handful of roasted chickpeas. 

To make it spicy: You can add a dash of chili powder or some finely chopped green chilies. 

Serving Suggestion: 

Healthy bhel can be served as a light snack or an evening appetizer. It’s perfect for when you want something crunchy, fresh, and filling without being too heavy. 

Enjoy your guilt-free, healthy bhel!