Indian street food is a vibrant and diverse culinary experience that tantalises the taste buds and showcases the country's rich cultural tapestry. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the crowded lanes of Delhi, India's street food scene is a sensory delight. It offers a kaleidoscope of flavours, textures, and aromas, ranging from spicy and savoury to sweet and tangy.
Every city across India has some delectable street food variety to offer. For instance, Mumbai is known for vada pav, Delhi for samosa, and Kolkata for kathi roll. If you want to try out the actual cuisine of a place, street food is the most feasible option. It is often said that no tour is complete without indulging in the authentic street-side delicacies each city has to offer. Whether grilled or fried, every street food has a different taste that is sure to make you salivate.
In this article, we’ll discuss authentic street food hailing from different cities. Take a look at them:
Delhi
- Chaat
Chaat, found in Delhi, is a culinary masterpiece that exemplifies the city's love for bold and explosive flavours. This iconic street food, known for its irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, tangy, and crunchy elements, has made its mark on the capital's vibrant food scene. A plate of chaat typically features a medley of ingredients such as crispy fried dough (puris or papdis), boiled potatoes, chickpeas, tangy tamarind chutney, yoghurt, and a melange of spices like chaat masala. The variety ranges from chaat papdi, aloo chaat, and daulat ki chaat to dahi bhalle and bhalla papdi. These chaats have been an integral part of street food culture in Delhi.
- Ram Laddoo
It might be the only classic street food found in Delhi. These delightful morsels consist of small, deep-fried lentil dumplings, often made from split yellow moong dal, which turn crispy and golden on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside. What sets Ram Laddoo apart is the expertly prepared garnish that adorns these lentil fritters, featuring a generous drizzle of tangy tamarind chutney, a spicy mint coriander chutney, and a sprinkle of powdered spices.
Mumbai
- Vada Pav
Often regarded as an Indian burger, vada pav is the iconic street food that defines the true essence of Mumbai’s fast-paced and diverse culinary scene. This humble yet satisfying snack consists of a spiced potato fritter (the vada) sandwiched between a pav and a local bun and is often accompanied by a tantalising array of chutneys and green chilli peppers. It is affordable and accessible to all Mumbaikars from all walks of life.
- Bombay Sandwich
Also known as the Mumbai Sandwich, it is a delightful street food that reflects the city's eclectic and cosmopolitan food culture. The heart of this snack is a filling of spiced mashed potatoes, layered with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. But what sets the Bombay sandwich apart are the unique chutneys and seasonings used. Tangy tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, and a generous sprinkle of chaat masala infuse each bite with a burst of flavours. The sandwich is typically grilled to perfection, creating a satisfying contrast of crispy and creamy textures.
Kolkata
- Jhal Muri
This popular street food in Kolkata is made of puffed rice and spices. This flavorful concoction is made by mixing puffed rice with an array of fresh and zesty ingredients, such as chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and boiled potatoes. The magic of Jhal Muri lies in its spice mix, which typically includes mustard oil, roasted peanuts, chilli, and an assortment of aromatic spices. Tamarind and green chutneys add a tangy twist, and everything is expertly mixed to create a harmonious blend of flavours.
- Kathi Roll
If you’re in Kolkata, you must indulge in kathi roll. This mouthwatering delight consists of a flavorful filling, often featuring succulent pieces of marinated and grilled meat, such as chicken, lamb, or paneer, complemented by a medley of onions, cucumbers, and chillies. The real magic of the Kathi Roll lies in its paratha, a flaky and layered flatbread that encases the filling. The paratha is brushed with butter or oil, adding a delectable richness to each bite.
Chennai
- Sundal
Made primarily from steamed or boiled legumes, such as chickpeas or lentils, sundal is seasoned with a delightful blend of mustard seeds, curry leaves, dried red chilies, and grated coconut. The dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a wholesome source of plant-based protein and essential nutrients.
- Puttu
In Chennai, puttu is traditionally made from rice flour, layered with grated coconut, and steamed in cylindrical metal or bamboo containers, resulting in a unique, cylindrical shape. It's often served with a delightful array of accompaniments such as kadala curry, coconut milk, or ripe bananas, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.
Ahmedabad
- Bhungara Batata
This dish is centred around potatoes, locally known as "batata," which are boiled, diced, and then skillfully roasted on an open flame until they acquire a delicious smoky flavour and a tempting char. These roasted potatoes are generously seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, including chilli powder, cumin, and coriander, creating a mouthwatering, spicy coating.
- Fafda
This crispy, deep-fried treat is crafted from besan (gram flour) and a blend of spices, resulting in a unique texture and taste. Fafda strips are typically long, thin, and ribbon-like, and they are known for their delightful crunch and savoury flavour. It is served with a flavourful chutney.