“Tum Gujarati log itne cute hote ho … par tum log ka khana itna khatarnak kyun hota hai … dhokla, fafda, handva, thepla … aaise lagta hai jaise koi missiles hai” Remember this dialog of Kareena from the hit movie 3 idiots ? It turns out that it’s not only the Gujaratis have these “missile” type names, in fact there are numerous names of dishes that you’ll find in India.
Since I’ve been traveling a lot, I’ve had many occasions to try out the local food of the city I’ve lived it. Be it the Raipur Bhajiya in Ahmedabad, Ghewar in Jaipur, Kachori from Benaras or be it the Rajma Chawal from Rajouri (Rajouri is a place in Delhi) I’ve tasted it all. But these were quite simple when it came to pronouncing them. Mostly the items you find in the northern part of India have short, simple and easy-to-remember names.
For the past few years that I’ve been in Hyderabad, I’ve fallen in love with the gastronomical régal the city has to offer. From the iconic Hyderabad Biryani to the unique Qubani ka Meetha, the city of Nizams will never let you down for the food. But one item with a unique name that has left me baffled has got to be Punugulu, hence the title Punugulu decoded.
So what exactly is Punugulu ? Punugulu is a breakfast-cum-evening deep fried snack. A balanced item, not very spicy and hence enjoyed by everyone. This one is for my North Indian folks – kuch nahi thode alag type ke pakode hain 😉 its prepared from maida along with a tinge of baking soda to make it soft and fluffy. Don’t be surprised if you find that odd Chilli or onion in it. This is served usually with peanut chutney. Usually pretty oily, so if you are a fitness freak, stay out from it !
That was Punugulu decoded for you. So the next time you are in Hyderabad, you would be aware of Punugulu.
Came across any weirder name than this one ? Share it with all of us 🙂