Sprouts Bhel
A light, crunchy twist on Mumbai's favorite street food. Steamed mixed sprouts tossed with crisp puffed rice, tangy chutneys, and fresh vegetables make a refreshing snack that comes together in minutes.
For 4 servings
- steam · ~7 min
Steam the mixed sprouts.
Place mixed sprouts in a steamer basket. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and steam for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp. Spread on a plate to cool completely.
TIPDon't overcook the sprouts — they should retain a slight crunch. - prep · ~10 min
Prepare the vegetables.
Finely chop the onion, tomato, cucumber, green chili, and coriander leaves. Cut the boiled potato into small cubes. Keep everything separate.
- mix · ~3 min
Assemble the bhel base.
1.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled sprouts, puffed rice, chopped onion, tomato, cucumber, potato, and green chili.2.Add chaat masala, red chili powder (if using), and a pinch of salt.3.Toss gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is well mixed.TIPMix just before serving to keep the puffed rice crisp. - mix · ~2 min
Add the chutneys and lemon juice.
1.Drizzle the tamarind chutney and green chutney over the bhel mixture.2.Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.3.Fold gently to coat the ingredients evenly without crushing the puffed rice. - garnish · ~1 min
Garnish and serve immediately.
Transfer to serving bowls. Top generously with sev and a sprinkle of chopped coriander leaves. Serve right away while the bhel is crisp.
TIPDamp sprouts or chutney will soften the puffed rice — don't let it sit.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Steam the sprouts until just tender but still crunchy to preserve texture.
- 2Cool the steamed sprouts completely before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- 3Add the chutneys and lemon juice at the very last moment for maximum crunch.
- 4Use a light hand when mixing to avoid crushing the delicate puffed rice.
- 5Serve immediately after garnishing with sev; the dish softens within minutes.
- 6For extra freshness, chill the chopped vegetables for 10 minutes before assembling.
Adapt it for your goals.
No-fry
Replace sev with roasted peanuts or roasted chickpeas for a crunchy topping without deep-fried ingredients; ideal for those avoiding fried snacks.
high proteinHigh-protein
Double the mixed sprouts and reduce the puffed rice by half to boost the protein content; perfect as a pre- or post-workout light meal.
jainJain
Omit the onion and potato, and use only sprouted beans and other permitted vegetables (like cucumber and tomato); ensure the chutneys are onion-garlic-free for Jain dietary requirements.
spicy mangoSpicy-mango
Add 2 tablespoons of raw mango (kachcha aam), finely chopped or grated, for a tangy-sour twist that complements the chaat masala beautifully.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant Protein
Mixed sprouts provide a combination of legumes that deliver a good amount of plant-based protein, aiding muscle repair and satiety.
High in Dietary Fiber
Sprouts, vegetables, and puffed rice contribute fiber that supports healthy digestion and helps maintain steady energy levels.
Low in Fat
This bhel uses minimal oil (only from the sev topping) and relies on fresh ingredients, making it a light, heart-friendly snack option.
Natural Vitamin C
Fresh lemon juice and chopped tomatoes supply vitamin C, which boosts immunity and aids iron absorption from the sprouts.
Probiotic Support
Sprouting enhances the availability of beneficial enzymes and prebiotics, supporting gut health when consumed fresh.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but drain and rinse them well, then steam them lightly for 2–3 minutes to remove any metallic taste and bring them to the right texture.
