A British man Angus Denoon, has captivated the internet by serving Kolkata’s iconic street food, Jhalmuri, right in the heart of London. His venture, “Jhal Muri Express,” has garnered significant attention, especially after a video shared by food blogger Ansh Rehan went viral, amassing over six million views on Instagram. The video showcases Denoon preparing the spicy puffed rice dish at his stall, highlighting his dedication to bringing authentic Bengali flavors to the UK.
The Love Story with Jhalmuri
British Man Angus Denoon’s journey began during a trip to Kolkata in 2005, where he first tasted Jhalmuri. The dish, a beloved street snack made from puffed rice, mixed with spices, peanuts, and chutneys, left a lasting impression on him. Upon returning to London, he decided to quit his job as a chef and pursue his passion for this vibrant street food. Despite facing homelessness at the time, Denoon found that Jhalmuri required minimal equipment to prepare, allowing him to start selling it in Asian-dominated neighborhoods like Tooting and Southall.
Viral Sensation
British Man Angus Denoon’s unique approach to serving Jhalmuri caught the attention of many food enthusiasts. His stall became particularly popular during the 2019 Cricket World Cup when he served Jhalmuri outside London’s Oval Ground. This event not only introduced his culinary skills to cricket fans but also led to a viral moment when Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan reshared one of his videos with a humorous comment.
A Culinary Experience
At “Jhal Muri Express,” Denoon serves Jhalmuri in traditional paper cones, ensuring that customers experience the authentic presentation of this street food. His stall has expanded its offerings to include other popular Indian snacks such as ghugni chaat, puchkas, dhokla, Gujarati dal, lassi, and chai. Denoon aims to provide a comprehensive taste of Indian street cuisine while respecting its cultural significance.
The Cultural Impact
British Man Angus Denoon emphasizes that while he is seen as a novelty due to his British background, his goal is to be recognized for making Jhalmuri with genuine respect for its origins. He views each serving of Jhalmuri as a “small piece of personal theatre,” aiming to create an engaging experience for his customers.
Conclusion
British Man Angus Denoon’s journey from a chef in London to a celebrated purveyor of Jhalmuri illustrates the power of food in bridging cultures. By introducing Kolkata’s beloved street food to Londoners and tourists alike, he not only shares a taste of Bengal but also fosters appreciation for Indian culinary traditions in the UK. As his popularity continues to grow, Denoon remains committed to delivering authentic flavors while making Jhalmuri a beloved snack in London.
