India is a country that is renowned for its diverse and delectable cuisine. The street food scene in India is particularly vibrant, offering an array of cheap yet mouth-watering delicacies that cater to every palate. Here are some of the best places in India where you can find inexpensive and tasty street food.
Mumbai, the city of dreams, tops the list with its eclectic mix of street food options. From spicy Pav Bhaji to sweet Gulab Jamun, Mumbai’s streets have something for everyone. A must-try here is Vada Pav, a local burger made from mashed potato fritter placed inside a bread bun served with chutney and green chillies. Another crowd-favourite is Pani Puri – hollow crispy puris filled with tangy tamarind water, chickpeas and potatoes.
Next on this gastronomic journey is Delhi, the capital city known for its rich history and equally rich cuisine. Delhi’s Chandni Chowk area offers an unforgettable culinary experience where you can indulge in Chole Bhature (spicy chickpeas curry served with fluffy deep-fried bread), Parathas (Indian flatbread stuffed with various fillings) or succulent Kebabs at ridiculously low prices.
The ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata takes pride in its Phuchka (the Bengali version of Pani Puri) which has a unique tangy-sweet taste unlike any other place in India. Don’t miss out on their Kathi Rolls – skewer-roasted kebabs wrapped in paratha bread filled with sauces and salad; it’s simply irresistible!
In South India, Chennai offers deliciously cheap street food like Idli Sambar (steamed rice cakes served with lentil soup), Dosas (rice pancakes) accompanied by coconut chutney or spicy sambar. For those who prefer non-vegetarian fare, Sundari Akka Kadai located at Marina Beach is famous for its fresh and flavoursome seafood dishes.
For those with a sweet tooth, the lanes of Jaipur, Rajasthan are a paradise. The city is known for its Ghewar, a disc-shaped sweet cake made from flour and soaked in sugar syrup. Also worth trying is Pyaaz Kachori, a deep-fried pastry filled with spicy onion filling.
Lastly, Ahmedabad in Gujarat offers an array of vegetarian street food options due to the predominant Jain community. Dhokla (steamed rice cake), Fafda-Jalebi (crispy snack served with sweet dish) and Khandvi (rolled chickpea flour snacks) are some must-try items here.
Street food in India not only satisfies your hunger pangs but also gives you an insight into the local culture and lifestyle. Each region has its unique flavours and specialties that reflect their culinary heritage. So next time you visit India or if you’re already there, don’t miss out on this street food adventure!