From spicy curries to sweet desserts and refreshing drinks, also from street food to fine dining, India has something for every palate. India is known for its spirited culture and flavorsome cuisine. With its vast array of spices, flavors, and dishes, it's no wonder why foodies flock to the world's most flavorful country!
Snacks and street food
When it comes to snacks and street food, India is a culinary wonderland. From the north to the south, and from the east to the west, every region has its own distinct and delicious variety of snacks and street food. Whether you’re exploring something light and healthy or something more indulgent, you can find it in India. Here are some of the best snacks and street food from around the country.
In Delhi, the famous Chola Bhatura is a favorite snack. This dish consists of puffy fried bread called Bhaturas, served with spicy chickpeas called Cholas. It is usually consumed at the breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Other popular Delhi snacks include Gol Gappe, which are crisp fried dough balls filled with mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and spices, and samosas, which are deep-fried pastry pockets stuffed with vegetables and spices.
In Mumbai, vada pav is a popular snack that is served everywhere from street vendors to restaurants. Vada pav consists of a deep-fried potato patty served in a bun, topped with chutney and fried green chilies. Another popular snack in Mumbai is Kanda Bhajiya, which is made from onions that are cut into thin slices and then dipped in gram flour batter and deep-fried until crispy.
In Kolkata, Phuchka is a favorite snack that consists of small round balls of dough stuffed with potatoes, spices, and tamarind chutney. The balls are then fried and served with additional chutney for dipping. Another popular snack in Kolkata is Jhalmuri, which is made from puffed rice mixed with chili powder, chopped onions, tomatoes, peanuts, spices, and other ingredients.
Finally, in Chennai, Bhel puri is a popular snack that is made from puffed rice mixed with tamarind chutney, onions, potatoes, tomatoes, chilies, and other ingredients. In addition to these delicious snacks, street food vendors throughout India also serve hot tea and coffee as well as cold beverages like lassi (a yogurt-based drink) and masala soda.
So if you’re ever traveling through India and searching for a quick snack or beverage, there’s no shortage of finger-licking options to choose from!
Sweets and desserts
India is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth! Sweets and desserts play an important role in Indian culture, and the country has a variety of offerings that range from traditional to modern. Many of these treats are made with ghee (clarified butter), nuts, and dried fruits. From classic Indian mithai to decadent Western desserts, here is a list of must-try sweets and desserts when visiting India
Gulab Jamun: These deep-fried dough balls are soaked in sugar syrup and topped with chopped nuts. They are extremely popular across India, particularly during festivals.
Kheer: This delicious rice pudding is made with milk, sugar, and raisins and flavored with cardamom. It's often served as a dessert or a snack.
Jalebi: Sweet and crunchy deep-fried swirls made with flour and sugar syrup. Jalebi is one of the favorite sweets in India.
Rasmalai: Sweetened cheese dumplings served in a creamy cardamom-flavored sauce.
Barfi: An Indian fudge made from condensed milk and sugar. It's usually topped with nuts like cashew or pistachios.
Gajar Ka Halwa: This carrot-based dessert is cooked with ghee, nuts, and lots of sugar. It's often served during festive occasions, mostly in winter.
Rasgulla: Spongy cottage cheese balls poached in sugar syrup
Sooji Ka Halwa: This semolina-based sweet is cooked with ghee and sugar. It's often flavored with cardamom and saffron.
Shahi Tukda: This royal dessert is made of deep-fried bread slices soaked in a creamy and nutty sauce.
Gulab Phirni: A creamy rice pudding made with ground basmati rice, milk, nuts, saffron, and rose water.
Beverages
When it comes to drinks, India has plenty of unique and flavorful options to choose from. From creamy lassis to spicy chai tea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some of our favorite beverages you can sample during your travels in India:
1. Lassi: This is a traditional yogurt-based drink that is famous throughout India. It’s made by blending yogurt, water, sugar, and spices such as cardamom, saffron, and filtered water. Lassis come in both sweet and savory varieties and are often served with lunch or dinner.
2. Chai: Chai tea is India’s most popular beverage. This spiced tea is made with black tea leaves, milk, sugar, and spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. It’s usually served hot but can also be enjoyed cold with ice.
3. Masala Chai: This variation of chai is made with the same ingredients as regular chai but with an added twist - it contains extra spices like cloves, peppercorns, and star anise. Masala chai has a bolder flavor than regular chai and is often served with snacks or desserts.
4. Coconut Water: If you’re looking for a refreshing beverage, you can’t go wrong with coconut water. Coconut water is naturally sugary and hydrating and can be found throughout India in both bottled and fresh varieties.
5. Thandai: Thandai is a traditional Indian drink made with milk, almonds, saffron, pistachios, cardamom, and rose petals. It’s usually served cold during festivals and other special occasions.Whether you’re looking for a cool refreshment or a sweet treat, India has no shortage of delicious drinks to choose from. So be sure to explore all the different options available and find the perfect beverage to enjoy during your travels!
