How to Make Khasta Bhel (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Name: How to Make Khasta Bhel (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: indian
Ingredients: 2 cups Murmura (puffed rice) (lightly roasted); 8 pieces Baked papdi (whole wheat) (khasta atta papdi); 1 medium Boiled potato (aloo, diced); 1 small Onion (finely chopped, piyaz); 1 small Tomato (finely chopped, tamatar); 1/2 medium Cucumber (finely chopped, kheera); 2 tbsp Green chutney (hari chutney (coriander-mint)); 2 tbsp Tamarind chutney (imli ki chutney); 2 tbsp Roasted peanuts (moongphali); 2 tbsp Nylon sev (for garnish); 1 tsp Chaat masala; 2 tbsp Fresh coriander (finely chopped, dhania); 1 tbsp Lemon juice (nimbu ka ras); to taste Salt (sendha namak if fasting); 1 small Green chilli (finely chopped, hari mirch)

Khasta Bhel is a popular North Indian chaat, loved for its irresistible crunch and tantalizing medley of flavors. This street-style delicacy hails from the vibrant markets of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, where 'khasta' means crispy and 'bhel' refers to a mixed snack. Traditionally, Khasta Bhel combines crisp puris, murmura (puffed rice), sev, fresh vegetables, and tangy chutneys to create an explosion of taste and texture. This healthy Khasta Bhel recipe uses roasted murmura and baked papdi instead of deep-fried, making it a lighter yet equally flavorful treat. With its spicy, tangy, and refreshing notes, Khasta Bhel is an excellent lunch option, especially during spring and summer. It’s also a festive favorite, commonly enjoyed during Holi and Diwali celebrations with friends and family. Its adaptability and quick preparation make it a staple for both impromptu gatherings and planned celebrations, reflecting the rich street food culture of India.

35 min total2 servingsEasy220 kcal / 100g

Ingredients

Step-by-step instructions

3 min

Step 1 · Roast murmura in a kadhai (wok) on low flame for 2-3 minutes until ...

Roast murmura in a kadhai (wok) on low flame for 2-3 minutes until crisp. Cool and set aside.

Step 2 · Break baked papdi into bite-sized pieces and keep ready

Break baked papdi into bite-sized pieces and keep ready.

Step 3 · In a large mixing bowl

In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted murmura, broken papdi, diced boiled potato, onion, tomato, cucumber, and roasted peanuts.

Step 4 · Add green chutney

Add green chutney, tamarind chutney, chaat masala, salt, and chopped green chilli. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5 · Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and toss again

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and toss again.

Step 6 · Transfer to serving bowls

Transfer to serving bowls. Garnish with nylon sev and chopped coriander.

Step 7 · Serve immediately

Serve immediately. Enjoy Khasta Bhel as a refreshing, light lunch or as a festive party snack.

Why this recipe is healthy

This Khasta Bhel recipe is a healthy choice due to its use of roasted and baked ingredients instead of deep-fried, reducing overall calories and unhealthy fats. The inclusion of fresh vegetables boosts fiber content and micronutrients, aiding digestion and satiety. Its low-oil, plant-based profile fits well within calorie-conscious and heart-friendly diets, making it suitable for weight loss and balanced nutrition.

A note on tradition

Khasta Bhel is an iconic North Indian chaat, deeply embedded in the street food culture of cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Delhi. It is most commonly enjoyed during festivals such as Holi and Diwali when families gather to relish quick and flavorful snacks. The dish symbolizes the joy of sharing, with its vibrant mix of colors and tastes representing the diversity of India’s culinary traditions. Vendors and home cooks alike add their regional twists, making it a versatile, all-season favorite.

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