A Guide to Indian Street Food: What to Try and Where

India is a country known for its diverse culture, rich history, and most importantly, its delicious food. While Indian cuisine is popular all over the world, nothing beats the experience of trying authentic Indian street food. The bustling streets of India are filled with the aroma of spices and the sizzling sounds of street vendors cooking up a storm. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the must-try Indian street food and where to find them.

The Must-Try Indian Street Food

Indian street food is a reflection of the country’s vibrant and diverse culture. Each region in India has its own unique street food specialties, making it a food lover’s paradise. Here are some of the must-try Indian street food dishes:

• Pani Puri: Also known as gol gappa, this popular street food is a crispy, hollow puri filled with a mixture of flavored water, potatoes, and chickpeas. It is a burst of flavors in every bite and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Vada Pav: This is a popular street food from the state of Maharashtra. It consists of a deep-fried potato patty sandwiched between two slices of bread, served with spicy chutney and fried green chilies.
• Dosa: Originating from South India, dosa is a thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It is usually served with a variety of chutneys and sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew).
• Kathi Roll: This street food originated in Kolkata and is now popular all over India. It is a wrap filled with a variety of fillings such as chicken, paneer, or vegetables, and is served with a tangy sauce.
• Jalebi: This sweet street food is a favorite among those with a sweet tooth. It is made by deep-frying a batter of flour and sugar syrup, resulting in a crispy and syrupy treat.

Where to Find the Best Indian Street Food

Now that you know what to try, the next question is where to find the best Indian street food. The answer is simple – everywhere! Indian street food is available in every nook and corner of the country, from roadside stalls to bustling markets. However, here are some of the best places to try Indian street food:

• Chandni Chowk, Delhi: This bustling market in Old Delhi is a food lover’s paradise. From the famous parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali to the mouth-watering chaat at Natraj Chaat Bhandar, this place has it all.
• Colaba Causeway, Mumbai: This street in Mumbai is famous for its variety of street food, from vada pav to pav bhaji. The iconic Badshah Cold Drink House is a must-visit for its delicious falooda (a sweet milk-based drink).
• Charminar, Hyderabad: The streets around the iconic Charminar monument are filled with street food vendors selling the famous Hyderabadi biryani and kebabs.
• Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai: This beach is not only famous for its beautiful sunset views but also for its street food. The must-try dishes here include pav bhaji, bhel puri, and kulfi (a popular Indian ice cream).
• Law Garden, Ahmedabad: This bustling market is famous for its variety of Gujarati street food, including the popular dhokla and khandvi.

In Conclusion

Indian street food is a must-try for anyone visiting the country. It not only offers a unique culinary experience but also gives a glimpse into the vibrant culture of India. From savory snacks to sweet treats, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you visit India, make sure to explore the streets and indulge in the deliciousness of Indian street food.

Remember to try these dishes at reputable and hygienic street food vendors to avoid any health risks. Happy eating!