As the festive spirit of Bakra Eid envelops India, the country's streets come alive with the tantalising aromas of traditional delicacies. From succulent kebabs to aromatic biryanis, the culinary offerings are as diverse as the nation itself. So, if you're a food enthusiast looking to explore the best of India's street food this Bakra Eid, here's your ultimate guide.
Bakra Eid, also known as Eid ul-Adha, is a significant Islamic festival celebrated with great fervour in India. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. During this festive occasion, people gather with family and friends to enjoy sumptuous meals and exchange gifts. Street food plays a crucial role in adding joy and flavour to the celebrations, with various cities in India boasting their unique culinary offerings.
Delhi: A Mughlai Food Paradise
Old Delhi, with its rich Mughlai heritage, is a haven for food lovers. The narrow lanes around Jama Masjid, such as Gali Kababian, are brimming with vendors serving succulent kebabs, tikkas, and seekh rolls. These meaty delicacies are marinated with a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, resulting in a burst of flavour with every bite. Don't miss out on the iconic Karim's, renowned for its mouth-watering biryanis and traditional desserts like sheer khurma, a creamy vermicelli pudding. Another gem, Al Jawahar, serves delectable Mughlai and North Indian delicacies, with their nihari, a slow-cooked meat stew, and butter chicken is highly recommended. The rich flavours and aromas of Old Delhi's street food will transport you to a bygone era of Mughal grandeur.
Lucknow: The City of Nawabs and Kebabs
Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, is famous for its Awadhi cuisine. The streets of Aminabad and Chowk are lined with stalls serving melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs, biryanis, and the unique Lucknowi dessert, shahi tukda. Galouti kebabs, a culinary masterpiece, are made with finely minced meat mixed with aromatic spices and tenderisers, resulting in an incredibly tender texture. Tunday Kababi, a century-old establishment, is a must-visit for its legendary galouti kebabs. The secret recipe, passed down through generations, is said to contain a blend of over 100 spices. The richness and finesse of Lucknow's street food will leave you craving for more.
Hyderabad: A Biryani Lover's Dream
Hyderabad, the city of Nizams, is synonymous with biryani. The streets of Charminar and Tolichowki offer a plethora of options for biryani lovers. Biryani, a fragrant rice dish layered with meat and a medley of spices, is a culinary masterpiece in itself. Savour the unique Hyderabadi biryani, with its distinct flavours and spices, at popular joints like Shah Ghouse and Bawarchi. The fragrant basmati rice, tender meat, and perfectly balanced blend of spices make Hyderabadi biryani an unforgettable culinary experience. Don't forget to try the city's other specialities like haleem, a slow-cooked meat and lentil stew, and qubani ka meetha, a delicious dessert made with apricots. Hyderabad's street food scene will take you on a gastronomic journey like no other.
Kolkata: A Melting Pot of Flavours
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, offers a unique blend of Bengali and Mughlai cuisine. The bustling Zakaria Street is a foodie's paradise during Bakra Eid. From Kolkata biryani, with its signature potato and egg, to haleem and sheermal, the city's culinary offerings are a treat to the senses. Kolkata biryani, influenced by Awadhi flavours, has its distinct style of preparation, with the addition of potatoes and boiled eggs elevating the flavours. Arsalan and Royal Indian Hotel are must-visit spots for their biryanis and kebabs. Indulge in the rich flavours of Kolkata's street food and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant food culture.
Mumbai: A Culinary Extravaganza
Mumbai's cosmopolitan culture reflects in its diverse food scene. Mohammed Ali Road, with its myriad food stalls, is the place to be during Bakra Eid. From nalli nihari, a slow-cooked meat stew, to malpua, a sweet pancake-like dessert, the street offers a variety of delectable dishes. Mumbai's street food represents the city's multiculturalism, with influences from various communities. Try the famous Noor Mohammadi Hotel for its 'Chicken Sanju Baba,' a recipe given by Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt. The succulent meat cooked in a flavoursome gravy will leave you craving for more. The bustling atmosphere and the wide array of flavours make Mumbai a culinary extravaganza during Bakra Eid.
Bangalore: A Fusion of Flavours
Bangalore, with its mix of traditional and modern culture, offers a unique culinary experience. The streets of Frazer Town light up during Bakra Eid, with stalls serving everything from haleem to kebabs and biryanis. Bangalore's street food scene showcases a fusion of flavours, influenced by various regional cuisines. Savour the city's specialities at popular joints like Fanoos and Rahhams. The diverse culinary landscape of Bangalore will tantalise your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
This Bakra Eid, explore the bustling lanes of your city and gorge on the delicacies that Eid has to offer. From the aromatic biryanis of Hyderabad to the succulent kebabs of Lucknow, there's a world of flavours waiting to be explored. Happy feasting!