Introduction

 

Hey there, foodies! Let me take you on a culinary journey to the bustling streets of Mumbai, where every corner is filled with tantalizing aromas and vibrant flavors. One dish that stands out among the crowd is the iconic Chinese Bhel. Picture this: crunchy noodles tossed with an assortment of vegetables, tangy sauces, and a hint of spice - it's a flavor explosion like no other. But before we delve into the recipe, let me share a little story about my first encounter with this delectable street food delight.

 

I still remember the first time I stumbled upon a tiny street-side stall selling Chinese Bhel. The enticing aroma drew me in, and with the first bite, I was hooked. The crispy noodles, combined with the tangy sauces and fresh veggies, created a symphony of flavors that left me craving for more. Since that day, Chinese Bhel has become a regular indulgence whenever I find myself in Mumbai, and each bite brings back memories of that first unforgettable experience.

 

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Recipe of Chinese Bhel - Mumbai Street Style

 

Ingredients:

 

• Puffed Rice
• 1 tbsp Chopped Onions
• Handful of Chopped Coriander Leaves
• 1/2 tsp Red Chilli Powder
• 1/2 tsp Chaat Masala
• Salt, to taste
• 2-3 Green Chillies, finely chopped
• 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes
• 1 tbsp Mint Chutney
• 1 cup Chopped Boiled Potatoes
• 1 Lemon
• 4-5 Papdi (crispy Indian crackers)
• 1 tbsp Sev (gram flour noodles)

Ingredients of Chinese Bhel:

• 1 Spring Onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup Red and Yellow Capsicum, chopped
• 1 bowl Chopped Cabbage
• 1 bowl Fried Noodles
• 1 tbsp Schezwan Sauce
• 1 tbsp Red Chilli Sauce
• 1 tbsp Vinegar
• Chopped Coriander
• 2-3 Green Chillies, chopped
• 1 tbsp Sliced Onions

 

Instructions:

 

Step 1: Prepare the Puffed Rice Mixture

• Take half a bowl of puffed rice and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tbsp chopped onions and a handful of chopped coriander leaves.

Step 2: Add Spices

• Sprinkle 1/2 tsp red chilli powder, 1/2 tsp chaat masala, and salt to taste over the puffed rice mixture.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

• Finely chop 2-3 green chillies and 1 cup tomatoes. Add these to the mixture. Also, mix in 1 tbsp mint chutney and 1 cup chopped boiled potatoes.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Crunch

• Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the mixture. Crush 4-5 papdis and add them along with 1 tbsp sev (gram flour noodles) for extra crunch.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

• Gently toss everything together until well combined. Serve the regular bhel in a paper cone, garnished with a papdi on top.

Instructions of Chinese Bhel:

Step 1: Prepare the Veggie Base

• In a large bowl, combine 1 finely chopped spring onion, 1 cup red and yellow capsicum, and 1 bowl chopped cabbage.

Step 2: Add Noodles

• To this veggie mixture, add 1 bowl of fried noodles for a crispy texture.
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Step 3: Add Sauces

• Mix in 1 tbsp Schezwan sauce, 1 tbsp red chilli sauce, and 1 tbsp vinegar. Toss the mixture so the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated.
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Step 4: Add More Flavor

• Add chopped coriander, 2-3 chopped green chillies, and 1 tbsp sliced onions for extra flavor and freshness.

Step 5: Serve

• Toss everything well and garnish with a sprig of coriander. Serve the Chinese bhel in a paper cone, bowl, or plate.
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About the Recipe

 

Now, let's talk about what makes Chinese Bhel so special. It's a unique fusion of Chinese and Indian flavors, crafted to perfection on the streets of Mumbai. The crispy noodles add a delightful crunch, while the assortment of vegetables provides a burst of freshness. Tossed in a tangy and spicy sauce, every bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you craving for more. Whether you're a fan of street food or not, Chinese Bhel is sure to win you over with its irresistible taste and texture.

 

 

Cooking Tips

 

1. Crunchy Noodles

To achieve the perfect crunch, fry the noodles until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to drain them well to remove excess oil before tossing with the vegetables and sauces.

 

2. Fresh Vegetables

Use a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and onions to add texture and flavor to the dish. You can also add sprouts for an extra nutritional boost.

 

3. Tangy Sauce

The key to a delicious Chinese Bhel is the sauce. Combine tangy tomato ketchup, spicy chili sauce, and a dash of soy sauce for a perfect balance of flavors. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.

 

4. Garnish with Herbs

Finish off your Chinese Bhel with a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro and green onions for a burst of freshness and color. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zing.

 

 

Pairing Guide

 

Chinese Bhel pairs perfectly with a hot cup of masala chai or a refreshing glass of lemonade. It's also great as a standalone snack or appetizer, perfect for sharing with friends and family at any gathering or party.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Chinese Bhel

 

1. What are the main ingredients used in Chinese Bhel? Chinese Bhel typically includes crispy fried noodles, assorted vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, along with tangy and spicy sauces.

2. Is Chinese Bhel spicy? The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference by controlling the amount of chili sauce used in the recipe.

3. Can I make Chinese Bhel ahead of time? While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving to maintain the crispy texture of the noodles.

4. Is Chinese Bhel suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Chinese Bhel is a vegetarian dish as it does not contain any meat or animal products.

5. Can I customize the vegetables in Chinese Bhel? Absolutely! Feel free to add or omit any vegetables according to your taste preferences or based on what's available in your pantry.

6. Can I make Chinese Bhel gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free noodles and soy sauce to make Chinese Bhel suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

7. What type of noodles are best for Chinese Bhel? Thin, crispy fried noodles, similar to the ones used in traditional Chinese cuisine, work best for Chinese Bhel.

8. How long does Chinese Bhel stay crispy? Chinese Bhel is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain its crispy texture. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to a day.

9. Can I add protein to Chinese Bhel? Yes, you can add protein sources like tofu, paneer, or shredded chicken to Chinese Bhel to make it more filling and nutritious.

10. Is Chinese Bhel a healthy snack option? While Chinese Bhel is delicious, it is typically fried and contains sauces that may be high in sodium and calories. Enjoy it in moderation as an occasional treat.

 

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