Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is not just famous for its rich history and stunning architecture but also for its bustling street food scene. The city offers a culinary adventure that is a delightful amalgamation of flavors, textures, and aromas. From the spicy and tangy chaats to the sweet and savory delights, Delhi’s street food is a reflection of its diverse culture and heritage. Join us on a gastronomic journey through the streets of Delhi, where every corner offers a new and exciting culinary experience.
GOLGAPPA
No street food tour of Delhi is complete without indulging in the iconic golgappa, also known as pani puri. These crispy, hollow puris are filled with spicy tamarind water, tangy tamarind chutney, chickpeas, and potatoes. Each bite bursts with a medley of flavors that is both refreshing and exhilarating. The best places to try golgappas are the street vendors in Chandni Chowk and Bengali Market.
AALOO TIKKI
Aloo tikki, a popular North Indian snack, is a deep-fried potato patty that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is often served with a combination of tamarind and mint chutneys, yogurt, and a sprinkle of chaat masala. The flavors are a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy. Head to Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala in Chandni Chowk for an authentic aloo tikki experience.
PAPDI CHAAT
Papdi chaat is a delightful mixture of crispy fried dough wafers (papdi), boiled chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, and a medley of tangy chutneys. The dish is garnished with sev (thin gram flour noodles) and fresh coriander. This chaat offers a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. The Haldiram’s outlets across Delhi serve some of the best papdi chaat in the city.
CHOLE BHATURE
Chole bhature is a classic Delhi breakfast that has gained immense popularity across India. This dish consists of spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with deep-fried, fluffy bread (bhature). The combination is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Sitaram Diwan Chand in Paharganj is renowned for its delicious chole bhature.
PARATHAS
Parathas, a type of Indian flatbread, are a staple in Delhi’s street food scene. They come with a variety of fillings, including potatoes, paneer (cottage cheese), cauliflower, and radish. Parathas are typically served with butter, yogurt, and pickles. The Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk is famous for its array of stuffed parathas, each bursting with flavor.
KEBAB
Delhi is home to a variety of mouth-watering kebabs that reflect its rich Mughal heritage. From succulent seekh kebabs to tender chicken tikkas, the kebabs in Delhi are marinated with aromatic spices and grilled to perfection. Karim’s in Jama Masjid and Al-Kauser in Chanakyapuri are legendary for their delectable kebabs.
JALEBI
Jalebi is a popular Indian dessert that is made by deep-frying batter in circular shapes and then soaking them in sugar syrup. The result is a crispy, syrupy treat that is both sweet and addictive. Old Famous Jalebi Wala in Chandni Chowk has been serving some of the best jalebis in Delhi for over a century.
8. Kulfi Kulfi, a traditional Indian ice cream, is a creamy and dense dessert made from reduced milk, sugar, and various flavorings such as cardamom, saffron, and pistachios. Kulfi is often served on a stick or in a clay pot (matka). Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale in Chawri Bazaar is famous for its wide range of kulfi flavors.
Fusion Flavors
9. Momos Momos, originally a Tibetan delicacy, have become a beloved street food in Delhi. These steamed or fried dumplings are filled with vegetables, chicken, or mutton and are often served with a spicy red chutney. Lajpat Nagar and Majnu ka Tilla are known for their mouth-watering momos.
10. Kathi Rolls Kathi rolls are a popular street food that originated in Kolkata but have found a special place in Delhi’s culinary landscape. These rolls consist of a paratha or roti wrapped around a filling of spiced meat, vegetables, and chutneys. Nizam’s in Connaught Place is famous for its delicious and hearty kathi rolls.
Exploring Delhi’s Food Markets
Chandni Chowk Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, is a food lover’s paradise. The narrow lanes are lined with food stalls and shops offering a wide variety of street food. From the famous parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali to the delectable sweets at Ghantewala Halwai, Chandni Chowk is a must-