Street Foods in India with Different States
Jaipur
Jaipur the well-known pink city is popular for its forts, palaces, street foods, rich heritage, culture, and traditions. But apart from all these famous attractions, the one thing that makes the much talking about the city is its varying and distinguished flavours of street foods items and options.
When in Jaipur, you will never be out of the food options that you can try. The mouth-watering and unique flavours of the Rajasthani food will make you fall in love with them. Here are some of the most famous options of street food in Jaipur that shouldn’t be missed for an unmatched taste.
1. Pyaaz Kachori
This is one of the specialities of Jaipur and it should not be missed under any condition. These Kachoris are high in calorie but are even much higher in its taste. Once you have tasted this delicious dish, you would always be tempting for more.
The best place to try – Rawat Misthan Bhandar at Station Road.
2. Lassi
The sweet and a rich drink will attract you with its taste and texture every time you visit Jaipur. To make the drink more attractive, it is served in the earthen pots and is served chilled. This is the favourite of many people for the summers.
The best place to try – Lassi Walla since 1944 at MI Road.
3. Rabri Ghevar
This unique combination is one of the other specialities of Jaipur that is the favourite dish of many local people. The dish is so famous that no tourists leave Jaipur without tasting this delicious and amazingly tasty combination.
The best place to try – Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar, Johri Bazaar.
4. Paan
If you haven’t tasted the world-famous paan of Jaipur then you haven’t tasted anything. This paan and its flavors are one tempting attraction that attracts most of the local residents of Jaipur every night.
The best place to try – Murli Paan Bhandar, Tonk Road.
5. Dal Kachori
The best part is it served with the local Kadhi (a curry made with curd). When you combines both , the taste goes to another level. The day will be too short to try other delicacies of Jaipur.
The best place to try – Shri Ram Namkeen Bhandar, MI Road.
Udaipur
The magnificent city of Udaipur, home to ancient culture and architecture is also well known for its delicious Rajasthani cuisine; however, of late, the streets have been buzzing more and more with equally delicious treats all over and around every street corner.
1. Daal Poori / Daal Baati
Near Gulab Bagh at Lake Palace Road. – The Dal Poodi, also known as the Daal Baati, is an authentic Rajasthani snack/meal that you can find on many street corners all over Udaipur. If ever visiting the city be sure to stop at Manoj Prakash Daal Poodi stall to sample this traditional treat; easily one of the most famous places serving this spicy daal and hot poodi, you will spot his kiosk along with the Lake Palace The road so be sure to make a pit stop.
2. Samosa Near Jagdish Temple
The number one grab and go snack in the country, the samosa is king of the road side treat. Right in the heart of the city, outside the Jagdish Temple and named after it, this street snack stall too has made a name for itself over the years, serving fresh and hot samosas, aloo vada, kachori, pohe and chilled lassi. Barely visible because of the crowds around it, you should have no trouble finding the place if you follow your nose.
3. Mini Mirchi Bada
Among the most famous street food in Udaipur is the Mini Mirchi Bada of Manak Balaji who has been making this savoury and spicy delight since 1967. Don’t be surprised to find a mile-long queue of both foreigners and Udaipur’s residents outside his tiny shop between 6:30 PM to 10 PM.
Agra
The rich heritage and culture that this city has inherited from its Mughal rulers are not just restricted to beautiful architecture but also translates to its food. The street food in Agra is a gastronomic delight, and you simply must sample all of the many delicacies for the unique taste, and they are sure to create an experience like never before.
1. Petha
Agra is equally famous for its Petha and is as old as the Taj Mahal itself. The most famous food of Agra, Petha is a delicacy whose amazing taste will stay with your forever. Made from white pumpkin, this century-old sweet can be very soft and syrupy or hard and chewy but it is always sweet with a delicate floral taste. Available all over Agra, our recommendation, however, is buying it at one of the original stores of Panchi Petha.
2. Dalmoth
A traditional namkeen, Dalmoth is a savoury dry snack that is a famous food of Agra. It is crispy, spicy and is made with lentils, nuts and spices. This snack is unique, and it is likely that you probably never had something like this before. This all-time snack is a perfect accompaniment to a warm tea, a cool sherbet and even a chilled beer. Available all over Agra, our recommendation, however, is buying it at one of the original stores of Panchi Petha.
3. Bedai and Jalebi
The locals in Agra have a unique way of eating breakfast; they like to have it sweet and spicy. Tangle your taste buds with Bedai and Jalebi in Agra. Perhaps the best street food in Agra, bedai is the spicy, fried, round and puffy bread that is typically served with a spicy side made of potato topped with a dollop of curd. The sweet part is the jalebi, a delicious sweet that is simply mouth watering. When it comes to Bedai and Jalebi, one of the best food places in Agra is to Devi Ram Sweets, where the whole of Agra, well almost, comes for their favourite breakfast item.
4. Paratha
No matter which corner of India you travel to, you would always want to grab a bite of this famous Mughlai dish. Parathas are made from wheat with stuffing varying from grated potatoes, grated cauliflower to carrots etc. It is regarded as the ultimate breakfast dish. Agra is famous for its Mughlai Cuisine, and hence you would get the best parathas served here which is also some of the best street food in Agra. This dish is served hot with chutneys to tingle your taste buds.
The best place to try – Ram Babu Paratha Bhandar at Civil lines
Delhi – Dil Walon Ki
Displaying the chivalry of Indian history and ancient culture, Delhi is famous for one more happening aspect. Yes!! The national capital of India is a foodie paradise owing to some delicate and spectacular street food in particular. A vacation in Delhi is incomplete without hitting the streets and trying out its rich and varied cuisines.
1. Chole Bhature
The first place that comes to our minds after coming across the above dish is Delhi. Delhi is the apt place to get a taste from. Perhaps, the best street food in Delhi; this dish is known for its fluffy Bhature and an appetizing Chole.
The Best Place to try – Sitaram Bazaar in Chandni Chowk & in Paharganj.
2. Golgappe
While in Delhi; how one can miss out to try the special Panipuri or Golgappe. With diverse forms, this dish is loved by almost all the patrons and the locals. You can go for stuffed Panipuri, different water flavours, an extra piece of papdi dipped in curd and chutney to give some extra pinch to your taste.
3. Aaloo Tikki & Dahi Bhalla
Stuffed with mashed potatoes and spring onions, Aloo Tikki is an excellent option to try on the streets of Delhi. The mix of curd along with red and green chutneys is a superb delight to experience on the streets of Delhi. The sprinkle of aloo bhujia intensifies this taste furthermore.
The best place to try – Natraj in Chandni Chowk.
4. Multani Moth Kachori
A mix of rice, lentils and onions decorated with a well-fried kachori is a must try in Delhi. Different chutneys with a chaat masala mixed curd will make you just awe inspiring.
The best place to try – Moth Kachori Bhandar in Paharganj, Chandni Chowk.
5. Jalebi
How can one ignore the unique shaped sugary sweetness of Jalebi in Delhi? With a large number of shops offering different varieties of Jalebi, this dish has become the perfect sweet dish for the Delhi residents and tourists. You can go for Doodh Jalebi, Kesar Jalebi, Jalebi Subzi and much more.
The best place to try – Jalebi Wala in Chandi Chowk, Bangla Sweets in CP, Pandara Road.
6. Besan Ka Chilla
Gram Flour is a prime ingredient in most of the tasty street food in Delhi. In this case, a thin layer of gram flour is stuffed with finely chopped veggies and cheese. It gives you a real taste of being in Delhi.
The best place to try – Sitaram Bazaar in Chandni Chowk.
7. Kulfi
Kulfi is something which gets a positive response from everyone going out to have a superb dessert. The flavour and taste together make way for this delicious dish carrying caramelized milk and finely crushed granules of dry fruits.
The best place to try – Roshan di Kulfi in Karol Bagh, Kuremal at Chawri Bazaar.
Kochi
Also known as “Gateway to Kerala”, Kochi is a major city in the southern state of Kerala, India. Formed over centuries by a diverse foreign authority, such as British, Dutch, Portuguese, Arabs, and Chinese, this city has a glorious past immersed from the colonial story. Various cultures are adapted and shape the city’s own cultural identity. It becomes one of the most appealing destinations in Kerala, especially its tourist area, Fort Kochi. In addition to its historical interest and diverse tourist attractions, one point that makes Kochi unique is its food culture.
1. Pazham Pori (Fried Bananas)
Also known as ethakka appam, pazham pori is a popular snack that can be found anywhere in Kerala. This South Indian cuisine is mainly made of sliced bananas that are well coated in all-purpose flour batter. It comes with a variety of seasonings such as salt, sugar, and turmeric powder, that is then deep-fried. Pazham pori is prepared as a snack served together with tea or chai. You may also find this fritter cake served with beef curry though this seems like a bit unusual combination.
2. Vindaloo (Hottest Indian Curry)
Vindaloo is the hottest curry you can get in an Indian restaurant. It is inspired by the Portuguese dish, where the locals add a twist by using local ingredients, including extra dried chili peppers and other spices. Traditionally, a hot curry comes with a load of chilies, tomatoes, and onions. The authentic taste of vindaloo comes from a unique blend of the garlic, vinegar, jaggery, fat of the pork, and Kashmiri chili. vindaloo is often served with a combination of rice, chappatis, or naan bread.
3. Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Chicken Fry)
Nadan kozhi varuthathu is a simple chicken fry with dried red chili, ginger-garlic, and vinegar; this dish is one of the favorite chicken recipes in Kerala. It is commonly known as spicy chicken fry and can be served as a side dish or a snack. The boneless chicken is fried with garlic and onion, along with chili, coriander, and vinegar. The dish is commonly served along with rice, roti, or Malabari parotta (an Indian flatbread). It tastes crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside.
4. Kulukki Sabbath (Shaking Lemonade)
Kulukki sabbath is a gift to the world. Kulukki in Malayalam means “Shaking”, and sabbath means “Juice”. Lemonade is a drink that transforms sour lemon juice into a sweet combination, with the addition of sugar and water. This local lemonade tastes sweet, salty, and spicy. It is filled with khuskhus seeds and served with lemon, basil seeds, and green chili after being shaken firmly.
Varanasi
Varanasi or Banaras, as it was earlier known, is a renowned tourist destination which draws people from all over the world. The pulsating culture, the overwhelming ghats of Ganga, the eccentric way of life, the chaotic gullies, the historic temples, the yogi babas and the monuments of Banaras are sure to guarantee its visitors an uplifting spiritual experience. Varanasi is like a canvas on which different vivid colors are fading into each other and creating this beautiful complex painting. Everyone is familiar with the classical music scene, the monuments, the beautiful sarees, and the Naga sadhus of Varanasi. But the narrow streets of this temple town have much more to offer and explore. While you’re taking in the sights and smells of Varanasi, you can also enjoy the delectable street food available here. Start your day with the creamy butter toast served with chai and Kachori for breakfast, and end it with tasty the Banarasi chaats and jalebis. It would be criminal to miss the street food here.
1. Kachori Sabzi
It is a popular breakfast option here in Varanasi. The kachori is either stuffed with dal ki pithi i.e. masala made of lentils or with a spicy potato masala. These Kachoris are served with a spicy aloo ki sabzi. This drool-worthy combination is definitely a must try.
The best place to try – Chachi ki Dukaan in Lanka.
2. Baati Chokha
It is one of the popular foods found on the streets of Varanasi. Baati is a type of Indian Bread with a filling of chatpate sattu and is served with Chokna which is a mixture of mashed potatoes, tomatoes, baked brinjal, and spices. You can find Baati Chokha almost everywhere on the streets of Varanasi as well as plush restaurants.
3. Channa Dahi Bada
Deep fried bada made from channa is soaked in thick beaten sweet yogurt. This is then garnished with masala, crushed black pepper, cumin and coriander among other things. This perfect mix of sweet and sour is very light.
The best place to try – Deena Chat Bhandar, Dashashwamedha ghat.
4. Tamatar Chaat
Banaras has its own version of the Aloo Tikki which is made using tomatoes. Hing, ground ginger, green chilies, tomatoes are added to mashed potatoes. Chaat masala is sprinkled on this preparation and it is served in Dona, which is a bowl made of Palash leaves. You should absolutely try this Banarasi specialty while you are here.
The best place to try – Deena Chat Bhandar, Dashashwamedha ghat.
5. Safed Makhan Toast
An early morning breakfast of Safed Makhan Toast with chai is a great way to start your day. Locally sourced bread is toasted over a coal oven and freshly made yellow or white butter is spread generously over it. The toast is either served with a pinch of chaat masala or sugar depending on your preference.
The best place to try – Laxmi Chai Waley Restaurant near Maldahiya.
6. Launglata
This regional delicacy is usually prepared during the festival of Holi, but you can find it on the streets of Varanasi all throughout the year. The crispy covering made of pastry dough is filled with milk solids(mawa), nuts and sugar. This fried delight is then soaked in flavored sugar syrup and served. One or two pieces of these are enough to satiate your sweet tooth.
The best place to try – Rajbandhu, Kachauri Gali Chowk.
7. Malaiyyo
This delicious street food of Varanasi is prepared from milk and served in small earthen cups called Kulhad. This dish has Persian origins and is flavoured with cardamom and saffron. It is garnished with almonds and pistachios and sometimes served with flavoured. It is so light and frothy in texture that it melts in your mouth. Godowlia Chowk.
8. Rabri Malai Lassi
The Banarasi Lassi is different from the Punjabi lassi. The local Banarasi Lassi is a complete meal in itself. Hand-churned lassi is topped with a generous amount of Rabri and Malai. This thick concoction is served in earthen pots with a generous sprinkling of crushed pistachios.
The best place to try – Blue lassi, Kachori Gali Chowk, Varanasi. Different flavours Mango Lassi , Paan Lassi , Banana Lassi , Chocolate Lassi etc are available.
9. Vanarasi Paan
It is popular all over the world for its rich taste. Bollywood songs are have been written about this famous paan. The Banarasi paan is made by stuffing paan leaves with betel nut, chuna, kiwam, snuff, rose chutney, baba chutney, coconut, catechu among other ingredients. Paan has a symbolic value here and is served in a special nawabi style. Enjoy the exotic flavors of Banarasi paan during your stay here.
The best place to try – Deepak Tambul Bhandar, Dashashwamedh Ghat.
10. Choora Matar
This street food is a Varanasi version of Maharashtrian Poha and Poha Chiwda of Bihar. Made of flattened rice soaked in desi ghee and cooked with spices along with green peas, raisins and saffron, Choora Matar is a famous breakfast and evening time snack in Varanasi. Spices like black pepper, garam masala and hing are added to this dish to enhance its flavour. No onions are added to the mixture which sets it apart from its Marathi and Bihari counterparts. Milk or cream is also added to the mix here to enhance its texture and flavour.
The best place to try – Gopal Mandir Gali.
On top Kashi Chat Bhandar, Godowlia Chowk is the one-stop shop for chat in Banaras. Try one plate of each of their offerings, and you’ll part with your money lovingly. Dahi Chat, Tamatar Chat, Palak Chat and Alu Chat are treated to savour here. If you pay a visit to Sankat Mochan Temple, visit the chat stall that lies before the temple. The sheer spread of different varieties of chat at this stall is extraordinarily luscious and attractive. Again, try each array that the stall has on offer!
Lucknow
Lucknow food is one of the best and delicious tastes that you can get in the world. The place is also known as the Awadhi cuisine and thus can offer you a good variety of Nawabi food in its charming Nawabi atmosphere. If you are a lover of non-veg dishes, Lucknow can be nothing less than a treat for you. From delicious kebabs to mutton, Lucknow has everything that you can think of. Not only the famous and luxurious hotels but even the street food in Lucknow is the best for making you tempting with its taste. Here are some of the names of the dishes that you must try when in Lucknow.
1. Kebab
Lucknow is not Lucknow without its kebab. Kebab is the delicacy of Lucknow that you can find almost everywhere in Lucknow in different taste and flavours. With amazing taste, crispy outer layer and soft filling, these spicy kebabs are meant to rule the streets of Lucknow. Other than the good variety of non-veg kebabs, you can also find a number of veg varieties. Popular kebabs to try are Galawati kebabs, Tunday kebab, and Veg Shami kebab.
The best place to try – Chowk.
2. Biryani
Other than the kebab, biryani is the second most popular street food that you can try on Lucknow’s streets. The amazing flavor of this cooked rice with vegetables and meat will melt your heart right with the first bite. You can get many varieties of biryani as well on the streets of Lucknow which again varies from being too spicy to less spicy. The veg Handi Dum biryani is one of the recommendations that you must try.
The best place to try – Gomti Nagar
Veg Kebab Parantha – Surprised by the name? You will be surprised with its flavours as well as it will enrich your taste buds with the best of the taste. This is one of the popular dishes that you can either try at the breakfast or can have a bite in the evening with chai. It serves with the taste of crispy rumali roti with the super-delicious and soft kebabs. You will remember this taste for quite a long time.
The best place to try – Kapoorthala.
3. Malai Makhan
If you are craving an amazing sweet dish which can totally impress you with its taste, then Malai Makkhan is the name we would suggest. It is one of the specialties of Lucknow which is mostly served during the winter seasons. This dish is also famous with the name of Nimish at some places. This sweet dish is made using the milk which is topped with nuts and a foamy texture.
The best place to try – Chowk.
4. Kulche Nihari
It won’t be wrong to say that this particular dish is the heart of Lucknow dishes and is one of the most mouth-watering dishes that you can ever try in Lucknow. Your Lucknow trip is certainly incomplete if you haven’t tried this dish on the streets of Lucknow. This dish will give you a unique flavor of Kulcha and Nihari which is a hard combination of taste to be missed. You will love the taste for sure.
The best place to try – Chowk.
5. Shahi Tukda
As the name suggests, this dish is one of the specialties of the land of nawabs. The dish is made with rich and heavy ingredients and thus is preferred to be tasted after the meals. It is sweet in taste and thus also completes the meal by being one delicious sweet dish. You can easily find this dish everywhere in Lucknow as it is one of the most popular dishes.
The best place to try – Aminabad
6. Sheermal
Have you ever heard of sweet naan? No! Well, in Lucknow you can taste such a dish. The dish which is famous with the name of Sheermal is a sweet naan which is baked in Tandoor and is served with spicy dishes to balance the level of tastes. The flavors of saffron, milk, sweetener, and nuts will dissolve in your mouth, giving you an unforgettable taste.
The best place to try – Chowk.
7. Tunday Kebab (Galabati Kebab)
Now Tunday Kebab have a very interesting story. Long long ago there was a Nawab (of Kakori) who loved kebabs but was too old to chew on them. So he called for a competition to make a kebab so soft that anyone without teeth could also eat it. The competition was won by one man called Haji Murad Ali who had only one hand. Just as a man without legs is called Langda in Hindi, a man without hands is called Tunda and that’s how the place got its name. With time these became the most popular kebabs.
The best place to try – Chowk.
Chowk
Chowk is often known as Jannat for all non-vegetarians, and the food here has often been referred to as the best non-vegetarians food on the country. Much of this comes form one single shop which has become an icon much beyond the city.