Located on the Triveni Sangam of the Rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, Prayagraj, previously known as Allahabad, is a beloved tourist destination, especially during the Kumbh Mela, attracting people from around the world. "While people enjoy exploring the tradition and nostalgia, no visit to the city of Prayagraj is complete without experiencing the iconic dishes and famous food.
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If you are visiting Prayagraj soon, checking out all the local foods and flavours is a must. Whether it’s the delicious kachori sabji or the special kali gajar ka halwa, here are some such famous and iconic dishes of Prayagraj that you should taste."
Also Read: Prayagraj’s Iconic Hari Ram & Sons: A 134-Year-Old Tradition Of Making Delicious Desi Ghee Snacks
Dahi Jalebi
The combination of Dahi Jalebi might sound weird to you since Indians are more familiar with rabdi-jalebi and even poha-jalebi. However, in Prayagraj, the unique pairing of sweet jalebis with plain yoghurt is a treat you shouldn’t miss. The sweetness of the jalebi is balanced perfectly by the cool and neutral flavour of dahi, making this a must-have.
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Kandmool
Prayagraj also has a connection to Lord Ram, similar to Ayodhya. The fruit Kandmool, shaped like a drum, is found in abundance across the city. It is believed that Lord Ram, Devi Sita, and Lord Laxman ate this fruit during their exile. Nowadays, it’s served as a popular street snack, especially during the Kumbh Mela.
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Masala Churmura
If you’ve tasted bhel puri or jhalmuri, then you’ll love masala churmura. This street food is unique to Prayagraj. The churmura, or puffed rice, in this snack is dry-roasted and then mixed with a variety of toppings like onions, tomatoes, herbs, peanuts, and green chillies. A dash of lemon and chutneys on top elevates the dish.
Dahi Sonth Ke Batashe
Prayagraj is famous for its chaat, and one of the most loved varieties is dahi sonth ke batashe. These crispy puris (the same as one used in pani puri) are filled with salty, tangy curd and sweet, spicy sonth (known as tamarind) chutney. They’re then topped with potatoes and various other chaat toppings. The flavours are explosive, making this snack a must for chaat lovers.
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Kachori Sabji
A staple in Prayagraj, kachori sabji is a dish that combines flaky, soft kachoris filled with spiced urad dal and a simple aloo ki sabzi on the side. When fried in desi ghee, these kachoris are incredibly delicious. The combination of savoury, spicy, and tangy flavours is a delight. It is a must-try dish for you when visiting Prayagraj.
Kaali Gajar Ka Halwa
Gajar ka halwa is a staple in Indian households, especially enjoyed in the winter season. But have you ever heard of or tasted the Prayagraj-special kali gajar ka halwa made with black carrots? Black carrots are available for a short period in certain parts of North India, and Prayagraj celebrates this rare ingredient by turning it into a rich, sweet dish. The halwa is enhanced with khoya and topped with dry fruits, making it a luxurious dessert you won’t want to miss during the winter months.