When it comes to street food, New Delhi is a paradise for food lovers. The city’s bustling streets are filled with food stalls offering flavours that are bold, spicy, and full of character. If you’re visiting the capital, here are some must-try street food dishes that capture the essence of Delhi’s rich culinary heritage.
1. Chole Bhature
No visit to New Delhi is complete without indulging in a plate of Chole Bhature. This dish is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Chole refers to a spicy chickpea curry that’s cooked with a variety of robust spices, such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, giving it a deep, flavorful kick. The Bhature is a soft, fluffy, deep-fried bread, slightly crispy on the outside and airy inside. Together, they create a rich, satisfying meal. Served with pickles, onions, and green chillies, Chole Bhature is a complete sensory experience. One of the most popular spots to try this dish is Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Paharganj, renowned for its perfect blend of flavours.
2. Aloo Tikki
Aloo Tikki is a simple yet mouth-watering snack that’s made from mashed potatoes, spiced with cumin, coriander, and red chilli, and then shallow-fried to golden, crispy perfection. The best part about Aloo Tikki is the toppings—served with tangy tamarind chutney, refreshing mint chutney, and a sprinkle of chaat masala, it’s a burst of flavour in every bite. Some variations even come with a dollop of yoghurt or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. You can find Aloo Tikki almost everywhere in Delhi, but Connaught Place and the streets of Chandni Chowk are known for offering some of the finest versions of this crispy, flavorful delight.
3. Golgappa/Pani Puri
One of the most iconic street foods in India, Golgappa, known as Pani Puri in other regions, is a must-try in New Delhi. These crispy, hollow puris are filled with spicy, tangy tamarind water (pani), mashed potatoes, and chickpeas. Each bite offers a tantalizing explosion of flavours—crunchy, spicy, sour, and refreshing all at once. Eating Golgappas is an experience in itself as you stand by the vendor and savour each puri one by one. For an authentic Golgappa experience, head to Bengali Market or UPSC Chaat Wala, where the spicy tamarind water is perfectly balanced with the filling.
4. Kathi Roll
Originally from Kolkata, the Kathi Roll has found a special place in the hearts of Delhiites. This popular street snack consists of a flaky, golden paratha that’s rolled up with a variety of fillings such as marinated grilled chicken, paneer, or spiced vegetables. The roll is then drizzled with chutneys and sprinkled with onions and spices, making it an on-the-go delight packed with bold flavours. Khan Chacha in Connaught Place is one of the most famous spots to grab a delicious Kathi Roll, and they’re known for their juicy, perfectly spiced fillings.
5. Rajma Chawal
Rajma Chawal is the ultimate comfort food, combining spiced kidney beans (rajma) with steamed rice (chawal). Often served at street-side stalls, this dish is simple but deeply satisfying. The kidney beans are slow-cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices to create a thick, flavorful curry, which is then poured over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s often served with pickles, onions, and a dollop of ghee, making it a filling and heartwarming meal. Jain Chawal Wale in Connaught Place is famous for its authentic and flavorful Rajma Chawal.
6. Dahi Bhalla
If you’re looking for something refreshing yet savoury, Dahi Bhalla is the perfect choice. Soft, melt-in-your-mouth lentil dumplings are soaked in creamy yoghurt and topped with tamarind and mint chutneys, along with a sprinkle of roasted cumin and chaat masala for an added zing. The cooling yoghurt paired with the spicy chutneys creates a delightful contrast, making this dish a crowd favourite during the summer. Natraj Dahi Bhalla in Chandni Chowk is a must-visit spot for tasting this delicacy, where the dahi is rich, smooth, and perfectly complements the lightness of the bhalla.
7. Pharatas
When in New Delhi, a visit to Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk is essential. This narrow lane is famous for its wide range of stuffed parathas. These flaky, golden flatbreads are stuffed with a variety of fillings such as spiced potatoes, paneer, cauliflower, radish, and even unusual options like bananas or nuts. Cooked in ghee and served with a selection of chutneys, pickles, and yoghurt, these parathas are a meal in themselves. Each bite is packed with flavour and texture, making it a true street food indulgence.
8. Kulfi
End your street food journey on a sweet note with Kulfi, India’s traditional ice cream. Rich, creamy, and intensely flavoured, Kulfi is made from condensed milk and comes in a variety of flavours, such as saffron, cardamom, rose, and pistachio. Often served on a stick or in a bowl with falooda (vermicelli noodles), this cool treat is the perfect way to beat the Delhi heat. For an authentic taste of this delightful dessert, head to Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfiwale in Chawri Bazaar, where they’ve been serving handcrafted kulfi for generations.
New Delhi’s street food scene is a vibrant reflection of the city’s diverse culture and history. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, these indispensable street food experiences will give you a true taste of the capital’s culinary heart. From crispy Aloo Tikkis to the sweet indulgence of Kulfi, each dish tells a story of tradition and flavour. So, the next time you find yourself in New Delhi, make sure to explore the streets and savour these unforgettable flavours!
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