By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Alongside the cacophony of scents and sounds that fill the air of its cities, India’s street food is its signature - with tastes as vibrant and diverse as the nation’s traditions.
For first-time foodies, Delhi, India's capital, is a paradise for chaat lovers. Encompassing a variety of savoury snacks that are typically served cold or hot, with a burst of tangy and spicy flavours, chaat offers an array of treats that tantalise the taste buds.
From the golgappe pani puri - a crispy shell filled with water and tamarind chutney - to the mouthwatering aloo tikki topped with yoghurt and various chutneys, Delhi's chaat options are an explosion of flavours best savoured at lively markets like Chandni Chowk.
Heading down south to old Bombay, you simply can't miss out on trying vada pav, a street food staple. Known as Mumbai's version of a burger, vada pav features a potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between a bun (pav) and served alongside flavourful chutneys. This simple yet immensely satisfying snack is popular for its taste profile and pocket-friendly prices. Grabbing one from a street vendor allows you to immerse yourself in Mumbai's dynamic culture.
Those keen to sample classic street food of the coastal regions of the Land of Spices should head to Kolkata, which is renowned for its kathi rolls - a satisfying creation that combines skewer roasted meats or paneer (cottage cheese) with onions, chutneys and spices all wrapped in a paratha (flatbread).
Originally designed as a meal, for Calcuttans kathi rolls have now become a popular street food choice loved by both locals and tourists looking for a quick and tasty snack. To savour the city’s iconic kathi rolls, head over to Park Street or New Market where you'll find street vendors serving up some of the best versions of this treat.
Hyderabad, known for its regal history and vibrant culture, boasts an equally impressive culinary offering - Hyderabadi biryani. This aromatic rice dish is prepared with meat (typically chicken or mutton), saffron and an array of spices that come together to create an unforgettable blend of tastes and aromas. Accompanied by raita (yoghurt sauce) and served with mirchi ka salan (spicy chilli gravy) Hyderabad’s biryani is a must-try for anyone exploring the city's street food scene.
In the heart of Punjab, Amritsar is renowned for its Amritsari kulcha, a type of stuffed bread that is traditionally baked in a tandoor (clay oven). Classic kulcha is usually filled with mashed potatoes or paneer and served alongside chole (spicy chickpea curry) and tangy pickles. This hearty and flavourful dish is a street food choice, in Amritsar best enjoyed at dhabas (roadside eateries) known for their skill in making Amritsari kulcha.
Want to dine like a member of India’s royal dynasties? Jaipur, the vibrant rose-coloured capital of Rajasthan, offers a unique street food experience - led by its pyaaz kachori. These fried pastries are stuffed with an onion mixture and accompanied by tangy tamarind chutney and yoghurt, are crispy, spicy and as iconic as Jaipur's vibrant markets and historic palaces.
Finally, in South India, Bangalore is famed for its masala dosa - a crispy crêpe crafted from rice and lentil batter filled with a spiced potato mixture. Served with coconut chutney and sambar (lentil soup), Bangalore’s masala dosa is both a classic breakfast choice and street food delight that highlights the region's affinity for aromatic spices.
