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Indian street food is a vibrant and diverse culinary experience that tantalizes taste buds and satisfies cravings like no other. While street food often gets a bad rap for being unhealthy, there are several options that can be both delicious and nutritious. For the health-conscious foodie, we've curated a list of 8 protein-packed Indian street foods that are not only tasty but also provide a substantial amount of protein. So, get ready to embark on a protein-rich culinary adventure through the bustling streets of Mumbai!
Pav Bhaji
Commonly found on the streets of Mumbai, Pav Bhaji is a popular vegetarian street food dish that is packed with flavour and protein. This delectable dish consists of a spicy vegetable curry (bhaji) served with buttered bread rolls (pav). The bhaji is typically made with a variety of vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, peas, and bell peppers, which provide a good amount of protein. A serving of Pav Bhaji can provide around 12-15g of protein, making it a satisfying and protein-rich street food option.
Moong Dal Bhajiya
Moong Dal Bhajiya, also known as Pakoras, are crispy fritters made from split green gram (moong dal). These delightful snacks are seasoned with spices, deep-fried until golden brown, and served with mint chutney. Moong Dal is a fantastic source of plant-based protein and provides approximately 12-14g of protein per serving. Indulging in a plate of Moong Dal Bhajiya not only satisfies your craving for something crispy and savoury but also adds a protein punch to your diet.
Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka is a popular North Indian street food that has gained immense popularity across the country. It is made by marinating cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a flavorful mixture of yoghurt and spices, skewering them, and grilling until golden and slightly charred. Paneer is an excellent source of protein, and a serving of Paneer Tikka can provide approximately 15-18g of protein. This delicious and protein-packed street food is a must-try for all the paneer lovers out there.
Masala Dosa
A South Indian delicacy that has found its way into the hearts of street food enthusiasts, Masala Dosa is a thin and crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with a spiced potato filling. The combination of rice and lentils makes this dish a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids. A single Masala Dosa can contain around 10-12g of protein, making it a fulfilling and protein-rich street food option.
Egg Bhurji
For non-vegetarian foodies, Egg Bhurji is a mouthwatering street food dish that packs a protein punch. It is a spiced Indian-style scrambled egg preparation that is cooked with onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and a blend of aromatic spices. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, and a serving of Egg Bhurji can provide approximately 12-15g of protein. Served with buttered pav (bread rolls), this street food delicacy is perfect for a quick and protein-rich meal.
Chicken Shawarma
If you're craving a protein-packed street food option with a Middle Eastern twist, Chicken Shawarma is the answer. Succulent strips of marinated chicken are slow-roasted on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served on warm pita bread along with fresh vegetables, pickles, and flavorful sauces. A serving of Chicken Shawarma can provide around 15-20g of protein, making it a fulfilling and protein-rich street food choice for meat lovers.
Tandoori Fish Tikka
Seafood lovers rejoice for the streets of Mumbai and offer a delightful protein-packed street food dish known as Tandoori Fish Tikka. Boneless fish fillets, usually marinated in a mixture of yoghurt and spices, are grilled in a traditional tandoor (clay oven) until perfectly cooked and slightly charred. Fish is an excellent source of lean protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. A serving of Tandoori Fish Tikka can provide approximately 18-20g of protein, making it a delicious and nutritious street food option.
Chana Chaat
For a protein-rich vegetarian street food option, Chana Chaat is a delightful choice. This tangy and refreshing dish is made with boiled chickpeas (chana), diced onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and a medley of spices and chutneys. Chickpeas are an excellent plant-based source of protein and fibre. A serving of Chana Chaat can provide around 10-12g of protein, making it a light yet protein-packed street food snack.
Indian street food doesn't have to be unhealthy or devoid of nutritional value. With these 8 protein-packed options, the health-conscious foodie can indulge in the vibrant flavours and culinary delights of Mumbai's street food scene while ensuring a substantial protein intake. From Pav Bhaji to Chana Chaat, there's something to satisfy every taste bud and provide a healthy dose of protein. So, the next time you hit the streets of Mumbai, don't forget to explore these protein-rich street food options for a fulfilling and nutritious experience!
