Jaipur, the Pink City, is renowned not only for its stunning palaces and vibrant culture but also for its mouth-watering street food. Walking through the bustling lanes of Jaipur, one is greeted by an array of aromas and vibrant food stalls. These street food vendors offer a pool of snacks and sweets that are an integral part of the city's culinary heritage. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Jaipur's street food is an experience that should not be missed. The city's rich flavours and diverse dishes reflect its historical and cultural richness, making each bite a journey through time.
Kachori
Kachori is a beloved street food in Jaipur, and you can find various types, each with its unique filling. Pyaz kachori, filled with spicy onion stuffing, is a favourite among locals. The crispy exterior and the flavourful, slightly tangy filling make it a perfect snack for any time of the day. Dal kachori, filled with a spicy lentil mixture, is another popular variant. Aloo kachori, stuffed with a seasoned potato filling, is equally delicious. These kachoris are often served with tangy tamarind chutney or spicy mint chutney, enhancing their taste.
Restaurant Recommendations
Type: Vegetarian
Budget:
Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji, originally from Mumbai, has found a special place in Jaipur's street food scene. This dish consists of a thick vegetable curry served with buttered bread rolls (pav). The bhaji is made by mashing a variety of vegetables and cooking them with a blend of spices and butter. It is served with finely chopped onions, a wedge of lemon, and a generous dollop of butter on top. The combination of the spicy, buttery bhaji with the soft, toasted pav creates a symphony of flavours that is both comforting and satisfying.
Restaurant Recommendations: Rawat Mishthan Bhandar, Sindhi Camp, Jaipur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: Rs 80-100
Rabdi
Rabdi is a traditional Indian sweet made by simmering milk for a long time until it thickens and becomes rich and creamy. It is flavoured with cardamom and saffron, and often garnished with nuts. In Jaipur, rabdi is a popular street food dessert that offers a perfect end to a spicy meal. The creamy texture and the sweet, aromatic flavours make it a delightful treat. Street vendors serve rabdi in earthen pots, adding a rustic touch to this delectable dessert.
Restaurant Recommendations: Maveer Rabdi Bhandar (multiple outlets)
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: Rs 100- 200
Samosa
Samosa, a triangular pastry filled with a spicy potato mixture, is a ubiquitous street food across India. In Jaipur, samosas are a favourite snack, enjoyed with tamarind chutney and mint chutney. The crispy, golden-brown exterior encases a flavorful filling made with potatoes, peas, and a blend of spices. Some vendors also offer variations with fillings like paneer or lentils. A hot, freshly fried samosa is a perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the streets of Jaipur.
Restaurant Recommendations: Samrat, chaura rasta, Jaipur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: Rs 50-100
Dhokla
Dhokla, a steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea batter, is a light and healthy snack that is also popular in Jaipur. This dish, originally from Gujarat, is soft and spongy, with a slightly tangy flavour. It is garnished with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut, and served with green chutney. Dhokla is a perfect snack for those looking for a healthier street food option without compromising on taste.
Restaurant Recommendations: Shree Ji Khaman Wala, Haldiyon ka rasta, Jaipur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: Rs 100-200
Dal Pakwan
Dal Pakwan is a traditional Sindhi breakfast dish that has become a beloved street food in Jaipur. It consists of crispy, fried bread (pakwan) served with a spicy chana dal (split chickpea) curry. The contrast between the crunchy pakwan and the soft, flavorful dal creates a delightful combination. It is often garnished with chopped onions, green chilies, and a squeeze of lemon juice, adding freshness and zing to the dish.
Restaurant Recommendations: Sindhi bhai Dal Pakwan center, 32, Jaipur Nagar Nigam Road, near Jodhpur Sweets
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: Rs 100-200
Bhujiye
Bhujiye, or small fritters, are a popular street snack in Jaipur. These crispy, deep-fried snacks are made from gram flour and spices. They come in various shapes, small or big. They are often enjoyed with a cup of hot tea, making them a perfect snack for a chilly evening or a rainy day. In some homes, bhujiye ki sabzi is also a common dish.
Restaurant Recommendations: Sampat Namkeen Bhandar
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: Rs 50-100