Top 10 Must-Try Delhi Street Foods

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Delhi, the lively capital of India, is not only famous for its historical monuments and bustling markets but also for its delectable street food. The street food scene in Delhi offers a culinary adventure like no other, known for its delicious chaats and savory snacks. In this article, we will explore the top 10 must-try Delhi street foods that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

The Cuisine Of Delhi

Delhi is famous for its diverse and flavourful cuisine, which reflects the city’s rich culinary heritage. From the spicy chaats in its bustling streets to the aromatic biryanis of its Mughlai kitchens, Delhi has something to offer for every palate. Whether you’re exploring the iconic street foods of Old Delhi or dining at upscale restaurants in New Delhi, each bite is a celebration of the city’s cultural diversity. With influences from Mughal, Punjabi, and street food traditions, Delhi’s cuisine promises a delicious adventure for food enthusiasts from around the world.

Delhi Street Food – Best Delhi Street Food

When it comes to the famous dishes of Delhi, you have plenty of options. Here is a list of the top Delhi street food dishes you must try on your visit to Delhi.

1. Gol Gappa

A beloved street food across India, Gol Gappa is known by various names such as Panipuri and Phuchka. Each region puts its unique spin on this crispy snack, resulting in delightful variations. In Delhi, Gol Gappas are crafted from semolina or wheat flour, forming crunchy balls stuffed with a savoury mix of chickpeas, boiled potato, and coriander, complemented by sweet chutney. Served chilled, they are submerged in tangy-flavoured water before being handed directly to you by the vendor.

Each Gol Gappa is prepared on demand and placed in your bowl precisely as you finish the previous one. It’s easy to lose track of how many you’ve devoured until the vendor eventually signals the end. These flavour-packed treats are utterly irresistible, leaving you craving more with every bite. Gol Gappa is a Chandi Chowk famous food item, and you’ll find plenty of stalls selling this delicious Delhi street food that tourists and locals love.

Where to Try: Prabhu Chaat Bhandar, UPSC Lane, Mansingh Road.

2. Chaat

Chaat is a popular street food in Delhi that you should definitely try. Indian cuisine is famous for its rich flavours and vibrant spices, and chaat is the perfect dish to indulge in these culinary delights. There are various types of chaat available, such as Dahi Papri, Aloo Chaat, Papri Chaat, Dahi Bhalla, and Samosa Chaat, and the taste can differ from region to region.

When exploring Delhi’s street food scene, make sure to try a plate of mouth-watering chaat to complete your day of shopping. With every delicious bite, you’ll experience the magic of Indian street food at its best. Connaught Place street food is a great option if you’re wondering where to try chaat in Delhi.

Where to Try: Pappu Chaat Bhandar, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Atul Grove Rd, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001.

3. Paranthas

Stroll along the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, and you’ll be greeted by the irresistible scent of freshly rolled and fried dough wafting through the air. Paranthas are Indian flatbreads made from whole wheat flour and stuffed with various fillings such as cauliflower, potatoes, lentils, or paneer. The stuffed dough is rolled out and cooked on a griddle with ghee or oil until crispy and golden brown.

Paranthas are often served with a dollop of butter, yogurt, or pickle, making them a hearty and satisfying meal. They are a popular breakfast option in Delhi and are also enjoyed as a street food snack throughout the day. So, whether you’re a local or a tourist, Chandni Chowk is always at the top of the list when it comes to seeking out the finest Delhi street food. One of its most iconic attractions is the legendary Paranthe Wali Gali, where a myriad of shops tempt visitors with over 30 different varieties of paranthas. Chandni Chowk is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts craving an authentic taste of Delhi’s culinary heritage.

Where to Try: Paranthe Wali Gali, Chandni Chowk.

4. Ram Laddu

Ram Laddu is a popular Delhi street food snack in Delhi, made from deep-fried lentil fritters. The lentil batter is seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and chilli powder before being deep-fried to crispy perfection. The fritters are then served hot, topped with freshly grated radish and a drizzle of spicy green chutney. The combination of crunchy exterior and soft, flavourful interior makes Ram Laddu a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Where to Try: Lajpat Nagar Market.

5. Kebabs

No visit to Old Delhi is truly complete without indulging in the irresistible kebabs. Fondly referred to as the “kebab town,” its bustling streets are adorned with various vendors and shops showcasing a diverse selection of non-vegetarian dishes. From the succulent Reshmi Kebab to the tantalising Kalmi Kebab, the options are endless for non-vegetarian Delhi popular food.

There is another popular dish in Indian cuisine called Galouti Kebab. It is made by finely mincing meat and mixing it with a variety of delicious spices. The mixture is then shallow-fried on a wide pan to create a perfect texture. Other popular kebab options include Seekh kebab, bolti kebab, and chicken tikka.

Where to Try: Qureshi Kabab Corner or Al Jawahar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk.

6. Daulat Ki Chaat

Daulat Ki Chaat, or Malai Makkhan, is a delicate dessert made from milk froth, saffron, and sugar, topped with khoya and dry fruits. It is traditionally prepared during winter and has a light, airy texture that melts in the mouth. Daulat Ki Chaat is a speciality Delhi street food, often served in small earthen pots or bowls, and is enjoyed as a sweet treat by locals and tourists.

Where to Try: Chandi Chowk, Babu Ram, Dariba Kalan.

7. Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature, famous in Delhi, is a delicious dish to try. It’s a culinary delight that you just cannot miss. This iconic dish features spicy and tangy chickpea curry, known as chole. This yummy dish is served alongside fluffy, deep-fried bread called bhature.

The chole is cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic spices, such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. This results in a rich and hearty curry that tantalizes the taste buds with its packed flavour and rich texture. It’s a complete meal that can be enjoyed anytime.

Where to Try:  Nagpal Chole Bhature, Amar Colony Market, South Delhi.

8. Matar Kulcha

Matar Kulcha is among the top Delhi street food dishes you must try if you’re looking for healthier options. Matar Kulcha is a crowd favourite for good reason. This Delhi popular food dish offers a tantalising blend of flavours and textures that leaves taste buds craving more.

Featuring a flatbread made from fermented dough and a hearty white pea curry, it’s both satisfying and healthy. Topped with tomatoes, onions, fresh coriander, and a generous squeeze of lime. This dish is perfect for curbing hunger pangs on the go and you can easily find this dish just about anywhere throughout Delhi.

Where to Try: Barshabulla Chowk, Chawri Bazaar, New Delhi.

9. Kulfi Falooda

Kulfi Falooda is a beloved Indian dessert that offers a delicious escape from the scorching heat of Delhi. This dessert consists of creamy kulfi ice cream served on top of soft vermicelli noodles, which are flavoured with rose syrup. It is then garnished with crunchy pistachios and basil seeds. This dessert is a perfect blend of different textures and flavours, making it a refreshing and satisfying treat. Make sure to taste the Kulfi Falooda when enjoying Delhi street food.

Where to Try: Roshan Di Kulfi, Karol Bagh.

10. Shakarkandi Chaat

If you’ve never tried Shakarkandi Chaat before, it’s your chance to try it on your Delhi street food journey. This dish features steamed or roasted sweet potatoes cut into cubes and served piping hot. It’s then finished with a liberal dusting of chaat masala, a squeeze of lime juice, and sometimes a few pieces of star fruit for an added tang.

Shakarkandi isn’t just a tasty snack but also a nutritious powerhouse, making it a favoured choice among street food enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. Packed with energy and essential nutrients, it caters to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences, offering a satisfying option for those looking to indulge without guilt.

Where to Try: Bishan Swaroop Fruit Chaat Corner, Chandni Chowk.

Honorary Mentions

11. Soya Chaap

Soya chaap is a popular vegetarian dish that even non-vegetarians can savour. It’s a great substitute for mutton, and the options are diverse. You can choose from Afghani soya chaap , Malai soya chaap, Tandoori soya chaap and more. Don’t overlook this delicious dish; its popularity speaks volumes, making it a must-try when exploring Delhi’s culinary scene.

Where to Try: Sardarji Malai Chaap Wale, Subhash Nagar.

12. Kachori Sabji

If you love Kachori, then this dish is a must-try. The dish features broken kachori, generously topped with flavourful aloo sabji, and accompanied by refreshing mint chutney. It’s a quick and satisfying option for anyone exploring the bustling streets of Delhi. With its delightful blend of textures and flavours, Kachori Sabji is an excellent choice for the famous dishes of Delhi.

Where to Try: Anil Kachori Wale, Hanuman Mandir, C.P.

Top Places To Visit In Delhi

While on your Delhi street food experience, here is a list of the top places you’d like to visit on your trip.

• Red Fort: Explore Red Fort, an World Heritage Site, marvelling at its majestic architecture and rich history. Wander through its imposing walls and intricate chambers, imagining the grandeur of bygone eras.
• Jama Masjid: Discover one of India’s largest mosques, known for its stunning domes, towering minarets, and expansive courtyards. Climb to the top of the minaret for panoramic views of Old Delhi, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere below.
• Chandni Chowk: Lose yourself in the bustling lanes of this historic market, filled with colourful stalls, aromatic spices, and delectable street food. Take a rickshaw ride through its chaotic streets, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Delhi’s oldest shopping district.
• Humayun’s Tomb: Step into the serene oasis of this Mughal masterpiece, admiring its symmetrical gardens, intricate marble work, and elegant architecture. Explore the tomb’s tranquil surroundings, imagining the opulence of the Mughal empire.
• Qutub Minar: Marvel at the towering height and intricate carvings of this iconic landmark, a testament to Delhi’s rich architectural heritage. Climb the winding staircase to the top for panoramic views of the city below and explore the surrounding complex, which includes ancient ruins and historic monuments.
• India Gate: Pay homage to India’s fallen soldiers at this majestic war memorial, set amidst lush green lawns and bustling city streets. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined boulevard of Rajpath, soaking in the beauty of this iconic symbol of national pride.
• Lotus Temple: Experience tranquillity and spiritual harmony at this striking architectural marvel, shaped like a blooming lotus flower. Explore the temple’s serene surroundings and take a moment to reflect quietly amidst its peaceful ambience.
• Akshardham Temple: Immerse yourself in the spiritual and architectural grandeur of Akshardham Temple, one of the largest Hindu temples in the world. Admire its intricately carved pillars, breathtaking domes, and serene surroundings, which offer a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: Experience the serene ambience and spiritual fervour at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of Delhi’s most prominent Sikh places of worship. Participate in the langar to enjoy a free meal served to all visitors, symbolising the Sikh principle of equality and generosity.

Delhi’s vibrant street food scene offers a culinary adventure like no other, with a plethora of flavours and aromas waiting to be savoured. Whether you’re a local food enthusiast or a curious traveller, exploring Delhi’s top street foods is an experience not to be missed.

So, embark on a gastronomic journey through the bustling streets of Delhi and treat your taste buds to an unforgettable feast of flavours. Plan your culinary escapade and Delhi tour packages with SOTC today and immerse yourself in the tantalising world of Delhi’s street food delights.

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