Corn Bhel is a go-to snack since it’s easy to make, tastes great, and can be used for a variety of purposes. Not only is this delicious street food simple to make, but it also has a lot of texture and flavor. Corn Bhel is ideal whether you’re planning to serve it as a light appetizer to visitors, a nutritious snack for children, or just a tasty treat to fulfill your hunger. Here, we’ll show you how to make this delicious snack the right way with an easy-to-follow recipe and some helpful hints.
What is Corn Bhel?
A fusion snack, maize Bhel combines the savoury elements of classic Indian Bhel Puri with the starchy sweetness of maize. Boiling corn, crisp sev, spicy green chutney, sour tamarind chutney, and a variety of veggies and spices are popular ingredients. An irresistible crunchy snack with a sour flavor is the end product.
Ingredients for Corn Bhel
To make the perfect Corn Bhel, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups of boiled corn kernels
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, finely chopped
- 1 potato, boiled and chopped
- 1/2 cup of pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup of sev (crunchy gram flour noodles)
- 2-3 tablespoons of green chutney (coriander-mint chutney)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tamarind chutney
- 1 teaspoon of chaat masala
- 1 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (for extra spice)
- 1/2 cup of puffed rice (for added crunch)
- Lemon juice (for extra tanginess)
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped mango (for a fruity twist)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Corn Bhel
Follow these simple steps to prepare your own delicious Corn Bhel:
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Start by boiling the corn kernels until they are tender. Drain and let them cool.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Finely chop the onion, tomato, cucumber, and boiled potato. Ensure all the vegetables are uniformly chopped for an even mix.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled corn, chopped vegetables, pomegranate seeds, and optional ingredients like puffed rice and mango, if using.
Step 4: Add the Chutneys
Add the green chutney and tamarind chutney to the mixture. Adjust the quantities according to your taste preference. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the chutneys.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Sprinkle chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, and salt over the mixture. Toss everything together gently. Finally, add the sev and freshly chopped coriander leaves. Give it one last mix.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
For the best taste and texture, serve the Corn Bhel immediately after preparing. This ensures the sev remains crunchy and the flavors are fresh.
Tips for Making the Perfect Corn Bhel
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance the taste of your Corn Bhel.
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust the amount of chutneys and spices to find the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.
- Serve Fresh: Corn Bhel is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crunchy texture. Prepare it just before serving.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional ingredients like peanuts, roasted chickpeas, or different chutneys to add your unique twist to the recipe.
Nutritional Benefits
Corn Bhel is not only delicious but also packs a number of health benefits:
- Corn: A good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s also high in antioxidants that promote eye health.
- Vegetables: Rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
- Pomegranate Seeds: Provide antioxidants, vitamins, and a burst of natural sweetness.
- Chutneys: Made from fresh herbs and spices, they add flavor and additional nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make Corn Bhel ahead of time?
While it’s best to prepare Corn Bhel just before serving, you can chop the vegetables and boil the corn ahead of time. Mix everything together just before serving to keep the sev crunchy.
2. What can I use instead of sev?
If you don’t have sev, you can use crushed papdi (fried dough wafers), crushed nachos, or even plain cornflakes for a similar crunch.
3. Is Corn Bhel a healthy snack?
Yes, Corn Bhel is a relatively healthy snack, especially when made with fresh ingredients and minimal oil. It’s packed with vegetables and can be customized to suit your dietary needs.
4. Can I add other vegetables to Corn Bhel?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, or radishes. Just ensure they are finely chopped to blend well with the other ingredients.
5. How can I make Corn Bhel spicier?
To make your Corn Bhel spicier, you can add finely chopped green chilies, increase the amount of green chutney, or sprinkle red chili powder.
Conclusion
Corn Bhel is a versatile and delightful snack that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Its mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, combined with a satisfying crunch, makes it a favorite among street food enthusiasts and home cooks alike. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family gathering, or just a simple snack, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delicious Corn Bhel today!
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