Recipe for Mexican Bhel: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Snack

Mexican Bhel is a vibrant and flavorful twist on the traditional Indian street snack, Bhel Puri. By infusing Mexican ingredients and spices, this recipe creates a unique fusion that’s crunchy, tangy, and bursting with colorful veggies and zesty flavors.

Perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, Mexican Bhel combines the best of both worlds with fresh salsa, crunchy tortilla chips, and a hint of chipotle heat. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or looking to try something new and exciting, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

One of the best things about Mexican Bhel is its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding more heat, swapping veggies, or even making it vegan.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to enjoy a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful snack that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Bhel is a fantastic fusion dish that combines the crunch of Indian puffed rice snacks with the bold, fresh flavors of Mexican cuisine.

It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no cooking—just chopping and mixing. This makes it perfect for those who want a quick, healthy snack without spending hours in the kitchen.

Loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it can be customized to suit your taste preferences, whether you like it spicy, tangy, or mild.

Ingredients

• 2 cups puffed rice (murmura)
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 cup fresh salsa (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chipotle chili powder (or smoked paprika for milder flavor)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Fresh avocado, diced (optional)
• Crumble cotija cheese or vegan cheese (optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving plates or bowls
• Mixing spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeño. Make sure the pieces are small so they blend well with the puffed rice and chips.
2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the puffed rice and crushed tortilla chips. These provide the signature crunch and texture of Mexican Bhel.
3. Add the veggies and beans: Toss in the chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber, cilantro, jalapeño, black beans, and corn kernels. Mix gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, chipotle chili powder, ground cumin, and salt. Adjust seasoning according to taste.
5. Combine and toss: Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together. The dressing will add a zesty, smoky flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
6. Add salsa: Gently fold in the fresh salsa, ensuring the mixture remains crunchy and not soggy. Salsa adds freshness and a slightly spicy kick.
7. Optional toppings: Add diced avocado and crumble cotija cheese or your preferred vegan cheese on top for extra creaminess and richness.
8. Serve immediately: Mexican Bhel is best enjoyed fresh to retain its crisp texture. Serve in bowls or on plates as a delightful snack or appetizer.

Tips & Variations

To keep your Mexican Bhel crunchy, add salsa and dressing just before serving.

• Make it vegan: Skip the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives.
• Spice level: Adjust the jalapeño and chipotle chili powder according to your heat preference.
• Extra protein: Add grilled chicken or tofu cubes for a more filling version.
• Salsa swap: Use pico de gallo or mango salsa for a fruity twist.
• Crunch variation: Replace tortilla chips with roasted chickpeas for a different texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant Mexican Bhel pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of lime agua fresca or a sparkling soda. It makes for a perfect light lunch or a refreshing appetizer before your main meal.

For gatherings, serve it as a fun snack alongside classic Mexican dishes like guacamole or quesadillas. You can also offer some extra salsa, sour cream, and lime wedges on the side to let guests customize their servings.

Conclusion

Mexican Bhel is an exciting and fresh way to enjoy a fusion snack that brings together the crunchy textures of Indian street food and the bold, lively flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for any occasion—from solo snacking to entertaining friends.

The combination of puffed rice, tortilla chips, fresh veggies, and a tangy chipotle dressing makes it a deliciously satisfying treat that’s both light and nutritious. Whether you’re new to fusion recipes or a seasoned foodie, this Mexican Bhel will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!

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