Golgappa, often called pani puri, ranks among India’s most adored street snacks. These crisp little puris, filled with tangy, spicy water, deliver a bright burst of flavour with every bite. While the street-side experience is iconic, making the flavoured water at home is cleaner, equally delicious and lets you control the taste. With a few everyday ingredients and minimal effort you can prepare a cool, refreshing golgappa water in your own kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

To make golgappa water, you will need:

Mint leaves – 1 cup

Coriander leaves – 1 cup

Green chilies – 2 (adjust to taste)

Tamarind pulp – 2 tablespoons

Black salt – 1 teaspoon

Roasted cumin powder – 1 teaspoon

Chaat masala – 1 teaspoon

Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon

Salt – as needed

Cold water – about 4 cups

These simple components combine to create the signature spicy, sour and cooling profile that makes golgappa water so irresistible.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare the paste:
Rinse the mint and coriander thoroughly. Add them to a blender with the green chilies and tamarind pulp, splash in a little water and blitz to a smooth, bright-green paste.

Mix the spices:
In a roomy bowl, spoon in the herb paste. Sprinkle the black salt, roasted cumin powder and chaat masala over it, then add the lemon juice and regular salt to round the flavours.

Add water:
Pour in roughly 4 cups of cold water and whisk or stir until the mixture is evenly combined and the texture feels light.

Adjust the taste:
Give the water a taste. If it is too fiery, dilute with more cold water or a few drops of lemon. For extra tang, stir in a little more tamarind pulp to preference.

Chill before serving:
Transfer the golgappa water to the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the flavours meld and the drink becomes truly refreshing.

Once chilled, your golgappa water is ready to use with puris stuffed with mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas or fresh sprouts.

Health Benefits of Golgappa Water

Beyond being a treat, homemade golgappa water can deliver a few wellness perks when prepared with fresh, clean ingredients.

Good for digestion:
Ingredients such as cumin, black salt and tamarind may help soothe digestion and ease bloating.

Rich in vitamins:
Mint and coriander bring vitamin C, iron and antioxidants that support immunity and a feeling of freshness.

Cooling effect:
Mint lends a cooling quality to the water, making it a pleasant summer refresher.

Boosts appetite:
The lively balance of spicy and tangy flavours can stimulate appetite and revive the palate after a long day.

Tips for Making It Healthier

Use filtered water rather than tap water for the cleanest result.

Add jaggery instead of sugar if you prefer a natural sweet-sour twist.

Reduce salt and chillies if you have a sensitive stomach.

Store the prepared water refrigerated and consume it within the same day for best freshness.

A Taste of Tradition

Golgappa water is woven into India’s culinary landscape. From north to south and east to west, each region interprets the drink differently — some favour heat, others lean sweet or extra tart. The joy of making it at home is tailoring that classic street flavour exactly to your liking.