Among the many culinary delights around the world, one style stands out for its bold flavors and aromas: Indian street food. Unlike the sophisticated ambiance of a five-star restaurant, these humble vendors serve up mouth-watering dishes that are truly authentic. Each vendor has a specialty that is totally worth trying, making every visit to an Indian street food stall a culinary adventure.
Even if you can’t make a trip to India in the near future, you can still experience the deliciousness of Indian Street Food in the comfort of your own home. With a little creativity and experimentation, anyone can recreate these tasty recipes and enjoy the flavors of India without leaving their doorstep. In fact, we’ve compiled a list of 35 must-try favorites that will transport your taste buds to the streets of India!
Aloo Tikki
Understanding the allure of street food in India often leads me to one particular snack that stands out – fried aloo tikki, the king of salty, fried potato treats! These tasty bites are reminiscent of hashbrowns from popular fast-food chains like McDonald’s, but take on a whole new dimension when prepared at home.
While they may seem like just a basic potato cake, aloo tiki is so much more – each patty is carefully seasoned with traditional Indian spices and filled with a spiced mix of nuts, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The pièce de résistance is the golden-brown crispy exterior that adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to this delightful snack. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love sinking their teeth into one of these savory treats?
To experience the magic for yourself, head over to our recipe page.
The Best Indian Punjabi Samosa
Few people can resist the allure of samosas, and it’s easy to see why – they’re undoubtedly one of the most popular foods on this list. Not only do they taste incredible, but their crispy exterior and soft interior also make them a delight to eat. If you haven’t tried samosas before, now is the perfect opportunity to get familiar with these delicious treats. This recipe provides an excellent starting point, as it’s surprisingly simple yet utterly amazing.
The filling features a blend of spiced mashed potatoes, onions, and garlic, which are all perfectly balanced in a tender dough. What really sets this recipe apart, however, is the frying process – when done correctly, the outside becomes golden brown and incredibly crispy, while the inside remains smooth and flavorful. It’s a match made in heaven! The best part? You can’t go wrong with this recipe – it’s a tried-and-true favorite that never fails to impress.
Masala Soda
Diving into the world of Indian cuisine, you’ll come across a staple spice blend known as Masala. This aromatic mixture is made from a variety of different spices, which can include cinnamon, mustard seeds, cardamom, clove, peppercorns, nutmeg, and coriander. The unique flavor profile of Masala is characterized by warm, earthy, floral, and slightly spicy notes, making it a perfect addition to many dishes.
When infused into a refreshing drink like this recipe, the combination of chaat masala, ginger, mint, lime, sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper creates a delightful symphony of flavors. Don’t be fooled by its dark color – this soda is anything but mean-spirited! Instead, it’s a revitalizing treat that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated with every sip as the bubbles dance along your tongue.
Masala Chai
Generally, westerners have a common misconception about chai, believing it to be a type of tea. However, this assumption stems from the fact that most popular ‘chai’ beverages in the West are referred to as ‘chai tea.’ In reality, ‘chai’ is the Hindi word for tea, and ‘masala’ translates to spice. Therefore, many spiced ‘tea tea’ lattes should be simply named spiced tea lattes. The traditional recipe for chai involves black tea, milk, sugar, and a blend of spices.
It’s no wonder that this delicious beverage is often sought after on chilly evenings, offering a sense of warmth and comfort that is hard to resist. This is the perfect drink to wrap your hands around on a cold winter night.
Lassi
Unsurprisingly, lassis hold a special place in my heart, being one of the most beloved Indian treats out there. With an incredible array of flavors available, from classic to unique and exotic options, it’s no wonder that I’ve developed a particular fondness for mango lassi – arguably one of the most iconic and widely enjoyed varieties. While you can experiment with numerous flavors and combinations, my go-to choice remains the traditional sweet and creamy mango lassi.
This refreshing drink is built around a foundation of cool, tangy yogurt, which provides the perfect base for the star of the show: succulent tropical mango. To take it to the next level, I add a hint of floral honey and a pinch of warm cardamom, creating a truly well-balanced flavor profile that’s as revitalizing as it is delicious. Whether you’re in need of a pick-me-up or just want to experience the authentic taste of India, this mango lassi recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Aloo Chana Chaat
Street food often gets a bad rap for being snacky, but this Aloo Chana Chaat dish is most definitely dinner material. Packed with protein and warm, comforting flavors, it’s the perfect meal to satisfy your hunger. The dish is made by combining seasoned chickpeas with an assortment of fresh veggies, all carefully balanced by multiple chutneys and bold spices.
With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful mix of textures – soft, creamy, and crunchy elements that will keep you coming back for more. Whether it’s the flavors or the textures that excite your taste buds, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Bhel Puri
Regardless of whether you’re a fan of chips and dip or not, bhel puri has won many hearts with its unique combination of flavors and textures. Rather than being a traditional chips and dip dish, it’s more like eating one crispy edible thing with another. This sounds good to me! In this recipe, we’ll use deep-fried puris (which look like crackers) as the base to enjoy bhel, a savory puffed rice dish packed with veggies, spices, and chutneys.
The crunch and texture of the puris perfectly complement the light, fluffy bhel, making it a match made in heaven!
Poha
Zestful flavors abound in this delectable poha recipe, a simple yet tantalizing breakfast dish that will satisfy all your cravings and count as a treat too! Poha is another kind of rice dish often served for morning meals, but its bold flavor profile takes it to the next level.
You’ll notice a medley of mouth-watering ingredients like mustard, peanuts, cumin, curry, chili, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and lemon that come together in perfect harmony, creating an out-of-this-world taste experience that’s truly fabulous.
Mirchi Pakoda
Just imagine the thrill of taking on the next pepper-eating contest – it’s a challenge that can only be met with the boldest of eaters. Mirchi pakoda are the perfect accompaniment for such an event, being crispy fritters made from seasoned green chilis coated in a spicy batter. These bite-sized treats are not only a delight to the taste buds but also offer a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist, making them all the more addictive.
Jini Dosa
Delighting in the perfect snack can be a challenge, especially when it comes to something as versatile and delicious as dosa. These crispy, fried, buttery, savory, cheesy jini dosas are an ideal solution for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings. Dosa itself is a fermented, thin lentil pancake that bears some resemblance to a crepe, but its unique texture and flavor set it apart from other flatbreads.
Jini dosa takes this versatile base and takes it to the next level by filling strips of dosa with an assortment of ingredients, including tomato sauce, Szechuan sauce, cabbage, onions, and melted mozzarella cheese, before rolling them up and frying until golden brown. The result is a snack that is not only incredibly crunchy and flavorful but also surprisingly cheesy.
Paratha
Generally speaking, no list of street food would be complete without some delicious bread options. I couldn’t possibly leave paratha out, as it’s a staple in many Indian households. This popular flatbread can be found throughout India and is often described as the love child of naan and a tortilla. Unlike naan, which is baked, paratha is fried, giving it a crispy texture that’s similar to a thick tortilla. The best part? Paratha is soft, flaky, and absolutely mouth-watering!
Pav Bhaji
Recent culinary trends have seen an influx of Indian street food making its way onto restaurant menus worldwide. Among these popular dishes, pav bhaji stands out as a must-try option for those seeking the perfect lunch. This delectable meal consists of a flavorful veggie curry, also known as a chili, that is bursting with spices and nutrients.
The dish is always served alongside a side of crispy, butter-toasted Indian bread rolls called pav, which are perfectly designed for dipping into the savory curry. When combined, these two components create an ideal meal for a hearty, healthy lunch.
Bombay Sandwich
Here’s a healthier twist on traditional sandwiches that will leave you wanting more – a veggie-packed delight that’s as tasty as it is refreshing! Hypnotized by the combination of creamy mint cilantro chutney, crunchy fresh veggies, and aromatic seasonings in every bite, this sandwich is sure to become an instant favorite. Its freshness is unparalleled, making it a game-changer for anyone looking to indulge in a guilt-free snack or meal.
Seekh Kebabs
Undoubtedly one of the most beloved Indian street foods, seekh kebabs are a meat lover’s paradise. Unlike traditional kebabs, which are often envisioned as chunks of marinated meat grilled on skewers, these oblong meatballs pack an intense flavor punch. Made with lamb, already known for its rich and robust taste, seekh kebabs take it to the next level by incorporating a carefully curated blend of spices. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and exotic at the same time.
When grilled to perfection and served with a dollop of coriander and mint yogurt, these kebabs are simply irresistible. Their strong meaty flavor is elevated even further by the aromatic spices, making them a true delight for those who crave bold flavors.
Kanji Vada
Taking center stage in the culinary world, this unique dish will tantalize your taste buds with its bold flavors. Traditionally known as Kanji vada, it’s a soupy, dumpling-esque delight that you simply must try! The key ingredients include lentil fritters that swim in a savory bath of fermented mustard water, giving the dish an unmistakable tanginess and depth of flavor. What’s more, this mouth-watering creation is not only a treat for your taste buds but also an extremely healthy option.
Kulfi
Lovely as it sounds, kulfi is a lot more than just a tasty treat for those with a sweet tooth. It’s an Indian-style ice cream that boasts a unique blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. As soon as you take a bite, the sweetness of sugar and cream hits your taste buds, followed by the subtle nuances of pistachio and cardamom. The aroma is light and delicate, making it perfect for hot summer days when a cool treat is just what you need to beat the heat.
If you’re looking for a new favorite way to stay refreshed on a sweltering day, kulfi might just become your go-to indulgence.
Pahadi Aloo Ke Gutke (Aloo Gutuk)
Delighting the senses with each bite, this side dish is truly a standout. The combination of soft, fluffy potatoes and crispy edges creates a delightful textural experience that’s simply irresistible. With bold spices adding an extra layer of flavor, it’s no wonder why this dish can easily steal the show – and be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike as a satisfying meal in its own right!
Kachori
Unsurprisingly, the combination of deep-fried bread and savory fillings is a match made in heaven. However, when we take it up a notch by adding seasoned lentils to the mix, the result is nothing short of culinary perfection.
Daulat Ki Chaat
Just like many Indian desserts, this creamy treat is a masterclass in subtle sweetness. Its milky and creamy texture is perfectly balanced by just the right amount of sugar, making it a dreamy creation that’s hard to resist. This recipe features whole milk, heavy cream, cream of tartar, saffron, and bura – a type of demerara sugar that can be substituted with turbinado or light brown sugar if needed.
The addition of chopped and ground pistachios adds not only lovely color but also an interesting texture to the dish, making it truly delicious. However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to start this recipe a day in advance, as the milk mixture requires time to chill overnight before serving.
Paan
Murukku
Among the many reasons why fried snacks are so incredibly appealing is their unbeatable combination of texture and flavor. The irresistible allure of these delicious murukkus is a testament to this phenomenon, with their buttery goodness and unbelievably crispy exterior making them almost impossible to resist. However, be warned: once you take a bite, it’s hard to stop, as these addictive snacks can quickly become your new obsession.
While traditional methods call for a special extruder, I believe that substituting it with an equally versatile tool like the murukku maker or even a piping bag could work just as well, making this recipe accessible to a wider audience.
Stir-Fry Silkworm
While adventurous eaters may find this recipe appealing, it’s essential to acknowledge that it features a unique ingredient: real silkworms. Don’t be put off by the idea – the silkworms themselves don’t have a strong ‘buggy’ flavor, but rather an intriguing combination of salty and crispy sensations, reminiscent of fried air. The texture is notable too, with puffy, crunchy qualities that give way to juicy centers in the larger specimens.
To prepare the silkworms, begin by rinsing them in warm water until the water runs clear. Then, scald them with boiling water to prevent splattering when they’re added to oil. Dry them thoroughly with paper towels before heating enough oil to cover the silkworms in a deep pan. Once the oil is hot, deep-fry the silkworms until they turn a pale brownish-yellow hue, then remove and season with salt or your preferred spices like cumin, garlic, or a combination of both.
Veg Momos
Embracing the rich culinary heritage of the Himalayas, momos – a type of Indian dumpling – have their roots in Nepal. While they may bear a striking resemblance to Chinese dumplings, momos have a distinctively rounder shape. The filling typically consists of shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sautéed onions, making them not only delectable but also surprisingly healthy.
Jhal Muri
Making this spicy puffed rice dish is an experience in itself, as it’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. The combination of spices and ingredients used in the recipe adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ghungi
Taking comfort food to new heights, this Indian yellow pea curry transports you on a culinary journey with every delicious bite. The complex blend of spices creates an experience reminiscent of strolling through the vibrant spice market, where warm aromas, earthy undertones, and savory flavors come together in perfect harmony.
Masala Akki Roti
Wrapped in the simplicity of Indian cuisine lies a delightful twist on traditional flatbreads – Akki roti. This rice flour flatbread is a far cry from its more familiar counterparts like tortillas, instead offering a unique flavor profile that is both savory and aromatic. The addition of masala seasoning adds an extra layer of depth to this dish, while the carrots, dill, cilantro, curry leaves, chilis, cumin, coconut, and onion bring a burst of freshness and spice.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, Akki roti is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Mirchi Bajji
Keeping the simplicity of the original recipe, I’ve decided to create yet another mouth-watering dish that showcases the natural flavors of deep-fried peppers. The absence of complex seasonings and spices in the batter allows the bold taste of the chilis to take center stage.
Thukpa (Vegetable Noodle Soup)
Generally speaking, the notion that vegetarian food is dull and unappetizing is a common misconception that couldn’t be further from reality when approached with creativity and passion. Take thukpa for instance – it’s a dish that embodies all the qualities of an exciting meal: savory, spicy, and remarkably filling. One glance at the ingredients typically used in this recipe, such as radishes, spring onions, spinach, and tomatoes, will immediately disprove the idea that vegetarian food is boring.
What’s more, thukpa is highly customizable, allowing you to add your preferred vegetables and make it a truly personalized dish. The inclusion of bold, warm spices and hand-rolled noodles adds an extra layer of depth and aroma to this recipe, resulting in every spoonful being fragrant and utterly delightful. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or just want to try something new, thukpa is definitely worth giving a go.
Instant Rava Paddu
Renowned for their delightful combination of flavors and textures, rava paddus offer a satisfying start to your day. These semolina-based pancake-muffin-type treats are packed with nutrients and can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences. Rava paddus are made by combining semolina, yogurt, carrots, cilantro, and an array of spices to create a wet batter that’s similar to making pancakes.
While the traditional preparation method involves using a specialized frying pan, similar to an ebelskiver pan, you can still achieve impressive results with a standard frying pan. Although the shape may not be as perfectly rounded, the end result is well worth the slight variation in technique.
Kathi Rolls
Delving into the world of Indian cuisine, it’s not uncommon for similar dishes to have multiple recipes floating around. In fact, kathi rolls are no exception, with various interpretations and presentations available online. What might seem like a typo at first glance is actually a reflection of the versatility and diversity of this beloved dish. Unlike other wraps, such as burritos or shawarma, kathi rolls can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences, making each one unique.
A key component of traditional kathi rolls is the yogurt-marinated chicken, combined with an assortment of vegetables, eggs, and a tangy onion relish that adds depth and flavor. This particular recipe shares similarities with both breakfast burritos and chicken shawarma, yet maintains its distinct Indian flair. One way to elevate this dish is by using parathas from a previous recipe, providing a convenient and delicious way to repurpose leftovers.
