Bhelpuri
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Bhelpuri is a snack synonymous with the beaches of Bombay. Bhelpuri stalls are ubiquitous in the city as well as in the countryside. Popularised by Bollywood films, many city outsiders often yearn to taste this snack.
Puffed rice forms the base of the bhel. To this finely cut tomatoes, onions and chillies are added. To this some chutneys are added to give it a sweet or spicy flavour. Sev, a chick-pea based topping is sprinkled and garnished with coriander leaves. It is then served with toasted puris, (a wheat based bread, deep fried). The result is a sour/pungent/sweet taste. It is customary to wash down the bhelpuri with a serving of panipuri, a chaat.
In Bombay, Chowpatty is well known for its bhelpuri, but do not overlook Sikkanagar. A vendor shop in sikkanagar is frequented by the locals for the bhelpuri and Golden.
While many regions in India have their own versions of bhelpuri, the most famous ones are the ones from Upites or Biharis.