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Embarking on a train journey in India is not only a means of transportation but also a gastronomic adventure. Indian Railways, renowned for its vast and diverse network, offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the rich tapestry of flavours from different regions of the country.
This article invites you to embark on a detailed culinary journey, exploring the iconic food served on board trains and at various stations across the Indian Railways network. From savouring aromatic chai to indulging in regional specialties, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the delectable delights of Indian railway cuisine.
The Train Kitchen: On-board Delights: Step into the bustling world of train kitchens, where talented chefs and culinary teams work their magic to create flavoursome meals for passengers. The on board menu offers a diverse range of dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Experience the joy of savouring iconic train meals, such as the aromatic and flavourful biryanis, accompanied by fragrant raita and papad. Sample the buttery parathas served with a variety of mouth-watering curries, including the spicy and tangy Chicken Chettinad or the creamy and rich Dal Makhani. The train kitchens also offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that every passenger can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Regional Gems: Stations and Street Food: Indian railway stations are veritable hubs of street food, each station boasting its own culinary specialties. Explore the iconic dishes that have become synonymous with specific stations, reflecting the unique culinary heritage of different regions.
- Mumbai: As you disembark at Mumbai's bustling stations, treat yourself to the legendary Vada Pav. This street food staple consists of a spicy potato fritter nestled in a fluffy bun, accompanied by tangy chutneys.
- Kolkata: At Kolkata's stations, indulge in the famous Kathi Rolls. These flavourful wraps feature succulent meats or vegetables cooked with aromatic spices, rolled in a flaky paratha.
- Delhi: A visit to Delhi's railway stations is incomplete without savouring Aloo Tikki, a popular street food snack. These crispy potato patties, spiced with a melange of herbs and spices, are typically served with tangy tamarind and mint chutneys.
- Chennai: In Chennai, relish the iconic South Indian snack of Medu Vada. These deep-fried lentil fritters have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Amritsar: At Amritsar's railway stations, sample the delectable Makki ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag. This iconic Punjabi dish features hearty maize flatbread and a flavoursome mustard greens curry.
Chai and Conversations: The Soul of Indian Railways: No train journey in India is complete without immersing yourself in the ritual of savouring a steaming cup of chai. Chai holds a special place in Indian culture and acts as a catalyst for conversations and connections among travellers.
- Chai Stalls at Stations: At railway stations across India, vibrant chai stalls attract passengers with their fragrant brews. Sip on masala chai, a blend of tea leaves, spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, and milk, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.
- Chaiwalahs on board Trains: On long-distance train journeys, chaiwalahs navigate the train's corridors, delivering hot cups of chai to passengers in ceramic or clay cups. These chaiwalahs skilfully brew chai on a small stove, infusing it with the aromatic flavours of spices.
- Regional Variations: The chai experience varies from region to region. In Kolkata, savour the strong and milky Kolkata-style chai, while in Mumbai, the cutting chai served in small glasses offers a strong kick of flavour. In the hills of Darjeeling or Shimla, indulge in the fragrant and delicate flavours of the local tea varieties.
Culinary Icons: Legendary Train Journeys: Several legendary train journeys in India have carved their names in culinary history, offering exquisite dining experiences on board. These journeys feature iconic dishes that showcase the best of regional cuisine and royal delicacies.
- Palace on Wheels: Embark on a royal culinary journey aboard the Palace on Wheels. Indulge in the sumptuous Navratna Korma, a rich and creamy vegetable curry infused with a blend of nine aromatic spices, representing the nine jewels of the court.
- Deccan Odyssey: The Deccan Odyssey train journey showcases the flavours of Maharashtra. Delight in the Dum Biryani, a fragrant rice dish layered with succulent pieces of meat or vegetables, cooked slowly over low heat, allowing the flavours to meld perfectly.
- Golden Chariot: Discover the culinary treasures of Karnataka aboard the Golden Chariot train. Relish the melt-in-your-mouth Mysore Pak, a sweet confection made from ghee, sugar, and chickpea flour, representing the rich heritage of Mysore.
Fusion of Flavours: Culinary Innovations: Indian railway cuisine has evolved to embrace culinary innovations, incorporating global influences while maintaining the essence of traditional Indian dishes. 
- Indo-Chinese Fusion: Experience the popular Indo-Chinese fusion cuisine available on board trains. Savour Hakka Noodles tossed with colourful vegetables and aromatic sauces, or relish Manchurian, vegetable or chicken balls in a tangy and spicy gravy.
- North-South Fusion: Witness the fusion of North and South Indian cuisines. Enjoy the delectable Masala Dosa with a Punjabi twist, featuring a stuffing of spiced potatoes and served with a side of rich and creamy butter chicken.
Embarking on a train journey in India is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. From the flavoursome meals served on board trains to the iconic street food found at various stations, Indian Railways offers a culinary journey like no other.
