If you are ever wandered through Pune’s lively streets in the evening, you’ve probably caught the aroma of something spicy, tangy and completely irresistible – Mataki Bhel… It’s one of those snacks that instantly brings a smile, whether you’re standing by a roadside stall or making at home on a cozy weekend.
What makes Puneri Mataki Bhel so special is its beautiful mix of flavours =, textures, and culture. you get the warmth of cooked sprouted mataki (month beans), the crunch of murmura and farsan, the kick from thecha and kanda lasoon masala and the bright freshness of lemon and coriander – all coming together one spicy, crunchy bowl of happiness..
This dish perfectly represents the Pumeri spirit – simple, bold, and full of zest.. Every bite has that unmistakable “zanzanit” touch – a Marathi word that means fiery, punchy, and full of attitude. it’s the kind of snack that wakes up your taste bud and makes you crave more.
Another reason Mataki Bhel is loved by so many is that it’s both healthy and flavorful. The sprouted mataki adds protein and nutrition, while the mix of chutneys, onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers gives it a fresh balance. So, even though it’s a street style snack, it still feels light and nourishing..
Whether you’re a Punekar missing home, a foodie who loves exploring local street flavors, or someone looking for quick, spicy evening snack – this Zanzanit Puneri Mataki Bhel is going to hit all the right notes. It’s quick to make, fun to assemble, and bursting with authentic Maharashtrian flavor.
So let’s bring that street side magic of Pune straight into your kitchen – one crunchy, tangy bite at a time!!
Do visit my other recipes also so Must try this recipes!! from my blog with this post also, It includes
Zanzanit Puneri Mataki Bhel | A Crunchy, Spicy Street-Style Snack
Crispy Namkeen Samosa
Bedami Puri & Aloo ki Sabzi,
Kadu Puri with Aloo Matar ki Sabji,
Dhaba Style Amritsari Chole Bhature,
Protein-Rich Chole Paneer Recipe,
Lauki ki SabjiDelicious Sweet Potato kheer – Vrat Recipe, Sweet Potato Tikki, Kacchi Dabeli with homemade Dabeli masala, Power-Packed Protein Tikki, Samosa Recipe,
Zucchini & Paneer Toast – A Healthy & Delicious Breakfast,
Delhi-Style Tikki Chole Chaat: A Street Food Classic at Home
Crispy Rice Papadi: A Perfect Gluten-Free Tea-Time Snack,
High Protein Rich Moong Dal & Daliya Kheer,
Rava & Besan ke Ladoo further, do check my other recipes collection..
Ingredient
For Cooking Mataki:
Sprouted mataki (moth beans) – 1 cup
Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
Red chili powder – ¼ tsp
Coriander powder – ½ tsp
Salt – to taste
Oil – 1 tsp
Water – ½ cup
For the Bhel Mix:
Puffed rice (murmura) – 1½ cups
Cooked mataki – ¼ cup (from above)
Boiled potato – 2 tbsp (cubed)
Onion – 2 tbsp (finely chopped)
Tomato – 3 tbsp (chopped)
Cucumber – 2 tbsp (chopped)
Green chili thecha – ½ tsp (adjust to spice preference)
Sweet chutney – 2 tbsp
Mixed farsan – ½ cup
Roasted peanuts – 2 tbsp
Kanda lasoon masala – ¼ tsp
Chaat masala – ¼ tsp
Salt – to taste
Fresh coriander leaves – a handful (chopped)
Lemon – 1 (for juice)
Sev – as needed (for garnish)
Method
Step 1 – Cook the mataki
- Firstly, heat a kadai on medium flame. Then add sprouted mataki (month) – 1/2 cup.
- Next add turmeric powder – 1/4 tsp, red chili powder – 1/4 tsp, coriander powder – 1/2 tsp and salt as per taste, add 1 tsp of oil.
- Mix everything well, cover with a lid, and let it cook on a medium flame for 7–8 minutes, or until the mataki becomes soft yet holds shape.
- Once cooked, turn off the flame and transfer the mataki to a bowl. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Bhel
- In a large mixing bowl, add puffed rice (murmura).
- Next, add ¼ cup cooked mataki, boiled potato cubes, onion, tomato, cucumber, and green chili thecha.
- Mix in sweet chutney, mixed farsan, roasted peanuts, kanda lasoon masala, chaat masala, and salt.
- Squeeze in half a lemon’s juice and toss everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Serve & Garnish
- Now transfer the Mataki Bhel onto a serving plate.
- Garnish with spicy sev, a spoonful of extra boiled mataki, fresh coriander, and another squeeze of lemon juice for that perfect punch.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crunch and freshness!
This Zanzanit Puneri Mataki Bhel perfectly captures the soul of Pune’s street food — simple, spicy, and absolutely addictive. Each bite gives you the crunch of murmura, the nuttiness of mataki, and the tang of chutneys, making it an unforgettable snack.
Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to quick fix for every mood — puneri style!
Tips & Variations
- Crunch Factor: Always add murmura and farsan just before serving to keep your bhel crisp.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the green chili thecha and kanda lasoon masala depending on how fiery you like it.
- Healthier Twist: Skip farsan and use more sprouts for a lighter version.
- Make Ahead: You can cook the mataki a few hours in advance and refrigerate it — just assemble everything fresh before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair your Mataki Bhel with a hot cup of cutting chai or a glass of masala tak (buttermilk) for that true Puneri vibe!
