India, a country known for its rich culture and diverse traditions, is also a paradise for food lovers. Its street food scene is particularly vibrant, offering an array of delectable dishes that are not just mouth-wateringly delicious but also incredibly affordable. Here we explore some of the hidden gems in India’s street food landscape.
Pani Puri in Mumbai is one such hidden gem. This popular snack comprises small round puris filled with tangy tamarind water, spicy mashed potatoes and chickpeas. The burst of flavours when you bite into a puri is simply unbeatable. Another must-try dish from the streets of Mumbai is Vada Pav – essentially a spiced potato patty sandwiched between two slices of bread, served with chutney.
In Kolkata, Puchka (a variant of Pani Puri) reigns supreme among street foods. However, another relatively lesser-known delicacy here is Ghugni Chaat – yellow peas cooked with spices and garnished with onions and coriander leaves. It’s simple yet so flavourful.
Moving southwards to Chennai, Sundal stands out as an inexpensive yet nutritious snack option. Made from boiled chickpeas or peanuts tossed in mustard seeds and curry leaves along with shredded coconut; it’s both tasty and healthy.
Delhi’s bustling streets offer many culinary delights like Chole Bhature and Aloo Tikki but one hidden gem worth trying here would be Daulat Ki Chaat – a frothy dessert made by whipping milk until it forms soft peaks which are then sweetened and flavoured with saffron.
In Ahmedabad, Gujarat Khakra – thin crispy flatbreads seasoned with various spices make for an ideal anytime snack while Fafda-Jalebi combo offers a unique blend of savoury crispiness followed by sweet syrupy goodness making it quite irresistible.
Venturing into the heartland of Punjab in Amritsar, while the city is famous for its Amritsari Kulcha, another hidden gem to look out for is Ram Ladoo – deep-fried lentil fritters served with spicy green chutney and grated radish.
The coastal city of Mangalore in Karnataka offers Goli Baje – a type of deep-fried dumpling made from refined flour and yoghurt. It’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and perfect for a rainy day snack.
India’s street food scene offers an endless variety of dishes that are as diverse as its people. These hidden gems not only satisfy your taste buds but also give you a glimpse into India’s rich culinary culture without burning a hole in your pocket. So next time you find yourself in any part of this vibrant country, don’t forget to explore these inexpensive street foods that promise an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
