The Pani Puri in Dubai is not very different from what you get in India, reckons Chef Faizan Ali, head chef, Khyber, Dukes The Palm, Dubai as he shares his thoughts on the much-loved street snack

Faizan Ali is the head chef at Khyber, an Indian eatery located in Dukes The Palm, Dubai. For him, the Pani Puri at Delhi’s Chandni Chowk is something he can never forget. The Dubai eatery is a branch of the iconic Mumbai establishment that has been consistently wowing diners with its authentic mouth-watering North Indian and Mughlai delicacies for about six decades. While the place is popular for its selection of delectable starters like kebabs, tikkas, and other delicacies, we, however, ask Chef Faizan to share his thoughts on India’s most popular and enduring street snack that could fit anywhere in the course of the menu.

Here’s what Faizan, who has been in the industry for about two decades and was inspired by his father to take up culinary arts, told us.

In terms of taste, is it true that the street side bhaiya’s Pani Puri can outdo the sanitised version that is served in five-star eateries? What’s your take on that?

Street food can differ from region to region; each place offers its unique taste and flavour that provides an authentic culinary experience of that region’s cuisine. Each region’s street food is distinct, with its recipes and ingredients showcasing many variations of the same food from state to state in India. Street-side foods may be affordable and economical for the general public, but it’s important to note that hygiene standards may not match those of five-star hotels. Street food that is prepared in hotels strictly adheres to hygiene and food safety standards and regulations, and we utilise ingredients sourced from trusted and approved suppliers.

An advantage of enjoying street food in a five-star hotel is the assurance of high-quality dishes, all served hygienically. Chefs tailor these dishes to guests’ preferences, spice choices, and palates. Moreover, chefs often step out of the kitchen to interact with guests, to provide them with a history of dishes, to seek their feedback on food and flavours, and most importantly to ensure a memorable dining experience.

How does one prepare Pani Puri when unexpected guests drop by and you have just ten minutes to spare?

It can be quite challenging to make puris if you don’t have the necessary ingredients readily available at home. However, you can make various types of dough. You could use maida, atta, or suji flour instead of traditional puri mixes. The Pani (spiced water) can be made by blending ingredients like mint, coriander, ginger, roasted cumin, black salt, and green chili.

Do you find the Pani Puri in Dubai different in taste and texture than the ones you get in India? 

It’s more or less the same, but you may notice slight differences in taste and quality due to the ingredients, climate, water, and shelf life. Even in India, the flavour can vary based on the spices that are grown in each state, the weather, and the time of year. The cooking methods in India differ from state to state, hence the difference in flavour. 

Chef, where have you tasted the best Pani Puri in India?

Of course, Delhi and Mumbai are extremely popular for their street food. However, when it comes to my favourite place to have Pani Puri, it’s Chandni Chowk. I’ve had the best Pani Puri here.

Can you share some Pani Puri filling recipes with our readers? 

Customise the stuffing and tailor it specifically to your preferred flavour, to make for a mouthwatering and tasteful experience. For instance, the Nagpur Pani Puri features spiced aloo, topped with dahi, spicy chutney, sweet tamarind chutney, and crispy sev. You can also add desiccated coconut flakes and a cherry on top for an extra burst of flavour.

And what about variations of this dish? 

Pani Puri can be prepared in various fusion styles, offering unique tastes and flavours like Pizza Pani Puri, Butter Maggi Pani Puri, Chicken Pani Puri, Cheese Pani Puri, and more. Even the pani can be prepared as per your preferred taste. Beetroot, Aam ka Panna, Shikanji, Jeera Pani, Meetha Pani, Lehsun Pani, and Imli ka Pani are some of the options that can be enjoyed.