Delhi Street Food by Anubhav sapra

Posted on November 19, 2019 November 19, 2019

PLACES TO EAT IN OLD GHAZIABAD

Ghaziabad is a populous city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Situated at a distance of nearly 42 km away from Delhi, it is an old industrial city that is now the part of the National Capital Region of Delhi. The insatiable hunger pangs inside drew us to its loud and busy precincts. We were pleasantly surprised by the eclectic gastronomic scenario in here. As you negotiate through the bustling thorough fares of the marketplace at old Ghaziabad, you discover that this busy trade center is a foodie’s haven too. The street food here is mix of traditional and contemporary favourites. Many of the traditional shops are as old as over sixty-five years or more and they gave us a semblance of Old Delhi. Inspite of the heavy influx of modern and international influences, majority of the population still loves to gorge on the zesty traditional street food fares like Chaats, Moonglet, Dahi bhalle etc. There are truly some good eateries whose foods and stories will make you fall in love with them. After visiting the city on three different occasions, we have come up with a basic list of the the go-to places that you can explore. The food scene is so diverse and widespread that we need multiple visits to actually come up with a comprehensive list of the same.

1. MOONGLET WALA(GHANTA GHAR)

Moonglet is the most preferred street food of Ghaziabad. These toothsome, savoury, lentil based pancakes are a craze with the crowd here. It’s resemblance to an omelette has earned it the name Moonglet i.e. moong dal based omelette. It’s is must-try delicacy in this part of the city. Try it for the buttery mouthfeel leaves you happy.

2. DEEPAK KANJI VADA(AGRASEN BAZAAR)

Check out this neat cart selling Kanji Vadas for the past 35 years to the discerning masses. This light and healthy snacks comprises of lentil dumplings dunked in mustard flavoured fermented water. Try it for its refreshing, filling and healthy goodness. It is a traditional summertime snack from the states of UP and Rajasthan.

3. LOKNATH SWEETS(GALI LOKNATH, CHAUPLA MANDIR)

One of the oldest sweet shop in the locality this place is famous for its luscious Rabri and Rasmalai. Their sweets are so popular that they even to travel far off places. We had tried the above two desserts along with Chenar Kheer. The well-made classics won’t disappoint us at all. The sweets are fresh, pure and most importantly, optimally sweet. Another popular stuff is their Lassi which the visitors and the traders swear by to beat their exhaustion.

4. HATHRAS CHAAT BHANDAR

Here you will get to taste the Hathras famed Aloo Tikkiya. Hahthras is a town in western Uttar Pradesh that is known for its Rabri and these zesty sweet and savoury Tikkis and Chaats. This one is a simple snack of plain deep-fried Aloo patties that is served with chutneys and curd. It is not that outstanding but not disappointing as well.

5. RAKESH EGG POINT

Rakesh egg point is a paradise for egg lovers. They serve a delightful and scrumptious range of egg preparation among which the bestsellers are the Egg Lolo Popo and Egg Curry. As evening sets in people throng this stall to relish the hot and fresh egg dishes that includes old classics and fusion or contemporary stuffs.

6. YADAV JI KE DAHI BHALLE

This mobile cart circling the bustling marketplace serves a luscious and yummy Dahi Bhalle to the Chaat lovers. The Dahi Bhallas or lentil-based fried dumplings are served with smooth and sweet beaten curd, crushed papdis, chutneys and roasted cumin powder. This chilled, lip-smacking dish is a thing of joy.

7. GOYAL PAAN SHOP(NAVYUG MARKET)

Paan enthusiasts can check this place for their craving.

8. SAIYA JI POORI WALA(MALIWARA ROAD, NEHRU NAGAR)

Yearning for some traditional breakfast platter, then head to this joint for their breakfast platter consisting of fresh hot Pooris, sweet and sour pumpkin sabzi, spicy potato curry, coriander chutney and a savoury raita. Best part of this unpretentious meal is the leaf plate that enhances the eating experience. Finish it off with a Mohan Bhog, a sweet that resembles a milk cake in taste and texture.

9. LALMAN LASSI WALA(OPP. PURANA BUS ADDA)

A glass of their lusciously chilled lassi will dispel your fatigue and refresh you effectively. The unique thing behind its sweet, smooth and refreshing taste is the pleasant earthy overtone that came from the earthenware in which the curd is set and also the one in which it is served.

10. PANDIT HOTEL(NEHRU NAGAR)

It is a typical North Indian styled Dhaba whose menu was quite elaborate. We had settled for their Navratri thali that has been introduced during festivity. It included two buckwheat and water chestnut flour based Pooris, a thin potato curry, curd, kheer and potato wafers. Everything was quite satisfying but it was the Shama or Millet Kheer that stood out in the group. Due to its appropriate location, it is a popular stop for the heavy vehicles passing through the nearby highway.

11. LALAJI CHAAT CORNER( TURAB NAGAR)

Turab Nagar is a popular cloth market and when the hunger pangs strikes you in the midst of your pursuits then you can consider this joint that is swarmed with a eager crowd impatiently waiting for the zesty Aloo tikkis. the shoppers love it this ubiquitous and lip smacking snack.

12. MUSKAN BURGER(KAVI NAGAR)

When in Kavi Nagar, try the spicy Hot Dogs from this counter that is a huge hit with the young crowd. Over a few years, the hot dog has evolved into a go to snacks that has caught the fancy of the masses. The masala hot dog is a zesty filling of a well cooked vegetable mash. Its filling and irresistible.

13. PORWAL JI KA NANO SAMOSA(KAVI NAGAR)

This small yet busy cart with a super exciting name-Porwal Ji Ka Nano Samosa serves small sized samosas, a perfect accompaniment to any conversation. The word nano refers to the small sized samosas sold in here. These mildly spiced samosas are super fun to have. Do try them if you are looking for some easy thing to pop in.

14. PAHALWAN DHABA(CHOTTI BAJARIA)

This 65 plus years old Dhaba serves great North Indian food in the area. Their super popular dish is Dhaba Style Chicken curry. Its is rich, robust, greasy, spicy yet very delicious. The right quantity and taste makes it as a value for money dish.

15. PANDIT JI KA SP. MATRA CHAAT(LOHIA NAGAR)

This place is a household name in the locality. Panditji’s unique fruit and yellow peas chaat has made him a celebrity. It is a zesty mixture of fruits and boiled lentils like Moong and Matra or yellow peas that is flavoured with spice mix, chutneys and lime juice. True to its glory, the taste is refreshingly addictive; a riot inside the mouth. Don’t forget to try it if you like the components that builds it.

16. GANDHI OMELETTE WALA(NAVYUG MARKET).

People throng this joint for the comforting bread and egg dish named egg roll. Unlike the regular roll which we are familiar with, it is made from a frothy, beaten egg mixture. Its appeal lies in the soft, fluffy and buttery texture. The crowd loves it and so did we.

17. MOHAN’S ICE CREAM STALL(GHANTAGHAR)

They serve special mixed fruit ice cream garnished with cherry compote. This humble chilled treat has a very homely taste that will stay with you and consequently turn you into an admirer.

18. GOYAL PAAN CORNER

This place deserves a special mention not just for their Paan but also for refreshingly yummy range of homemade, seasonal fruit juices.

With this we come to the end of this list. There are so many more eateries to explore which we will eventually discover for you. Till then keep walking and keep exploring. And for more details check out the links below:

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Posted on September 2, 2019

NOIDA(BRAHMAPUTRA MARKET) FOOD TOUR

The Brahmaputra Market is one of the oldest markets in Noida. Situated in sector 29, it is a popular shopping and food destination for the locals. After sundown this shopping hub transforms into a gastronomic paradise pervaded with food items varying from Kathi rolls and Momos to Chaats and Chicken Biryani. Name any popular pan Indian street food, you would find a stall here to cater to your cravings. So in blog we bring you our street food explorations from this bustling marketplace. In our sojourn to sample some of the lip-smacking street food fare, we were joined by our gracious host Sanyukta Nath who is a gourmet and a local. The unfortunate part of this tour was a sudden change of weather due to which we were bound to curtail the scope of our plans.

Our first stop was an old South Indian joint named Lakshmi Coffee House. It is a quaint restaurant serving popular and authentic South Indian fare. We ordered the Paper Dosa along with filter coffee for two specific reasons. One, we intended to have a light meal so that we have enough room for other delicacies that were in the offing. Secondly, we believe that the seemingly simplest dish offered by any eatery can be a test of one’s amazing culinary skills prowess. True to its name, the dosa was paper thin, pleasantly crisp and hearty and so were the coconut chutney and sambar that accompanied it.

The second stop was the popular Evergreen Chaat shop. On arriving there we were greeted by their huge, neatly done Chaat assembling area. The sight of the ingredients on the other side of the transparent facade makes you salivate. We tried one of their bestselling Chaats i.e the Papdi Chaat. This zesty thing qualified all the criteria(components, tastes and textures) of a good Chaat. However it was this unique touch of a topping of spiced peanuts that gave it an extra edge.

Then we headed to Bombay Bhel Puri for that tempting plate of Dahi Puri that Sankyukta had been eulogizing about all through. The super pretty crisp hollow puris loaded with a delightful sweet, savoury and tangy mixture reminded us of the adage that one first eats with his eyes and then with his mouth. Just as they crack apart in your mouth, you know how sensational they are. If you are a chaat lover, then definitely give this place a try.

While moving towards our next destination, we chanced upon this stall named Lucknowi Zaika. So it was the sight and aroma of the flat kebabs stacked one upon another on the huge griddle, that attracted us to this place. To our wonder, here we had one of the most delicious Veg Kebab, that was quite similar to a well done Galauti kebab, all in taste, texture and flavour. This humble delicacy made with lentils, soya nuggets mince and raw banana was indeed a revelation for us both.

In no time the weather turned bad and it began to rain. The market place was just being set up. But neither did it dampen the spirit of the vendors nor ours. Thankfully in sometime the rain stopped and the evening food market began to emerge hurriedly. We were glad that the tour didn’t get aborted. As the cool and pleasant weather whetted our appetite and we began to lookout for our next destination.

So as the activity at the food zone resumed, we were tempted to try a plate of piping hot Chicken Biryani from one of the vendors. The biryani was served with a spoonful of Chicken korma and some Chaat masala. It had a fun taste with the chicken being moist and tender.

Finally we arrived at Al Kaif Shawarma stall to have the Chicken Shawarma Roll as recommended by our host Sanyukta. It was a no fuss Lebanese style wrap that was tightly stuffed with a juicy, tender and optimally spicy, finely chopped grilled chicken. We enjoyed this soft and filling combo.

Next was the turn of an Afghani style Chicken Shawarma roll at a cart with the same name. The wrap comprising of a soft, thick and fluffy bread stuffed with charcoal grilled shredded chicken, vegetable juliennes, seasonings and dollops of mayonnaise was simply irresistible. We highly recommend this place to all Shawarma addicts.

Our penultimate stop was Amar Momos. Their Chicken Tandoori Momos were smoky and spicy, buttery, creamy and very flavoursome. You can sense the Tandoori and the momo flavour coming together quite nicely. The chutneys were brilliant as well. The filling was quite moist and the outer case was so aptly thin that the overall deliciousness was not marred by any doughy taste.

It was time to wrap up the food tour and so we decided to call it off with a paan. For this we went to try a meetha paan from the very popular Nitesh Paan shop in the market.

Inspite of the weather playing spoilsport, this culinary trail across the Brahmaputra market in Noida was truly fun and gratifying. No wonder as Sanyukta had rightly convinced us, the marketplace is a street food haven that has some delectable gems whose brilliance you can’t escape. We are truly grateful to her for her assistance.

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Posted on August 12, 2019

JAFFRABAD STREET FOOD TOUR

It is the holy month of Ramzan and just like any Muslim neighbourhood, the narrow and busy lanes of the Jaffrabad Market in Seelampur, Delhi gets filled up with street vendors with their carts or stalls, selling Iftari food items and the common public, enthusiastically thronging the streets to break their Roza or the day long fast along with their acquaintances. So all these set up gets laid an hour or so before the Maghreb or the evening prayer. The prevalent sensory experiences in terms of the sights, sounds and aromas undergoes a visible shift as the place gears up for the Iftar or the feast that marks the breaking of the fast. As the evening moves into night, the sea of humanity swells and the surge of the locals engulfs the marketplace. One thing that revolves in the minds of all is food, the fuel that drives the human body. This place in northeast Delhi has a sizeable Muslim population. It is also the home to thousands of families that migrated to the capital from the nearby states of UP, Bihar and MP.

During Ramzan, the locality and its neighbourhood markets transforms into all night bazaar that is full of food stuffs and other things as well. Like its Old Delhi counterpart, this place is cheaper and full of local crowd as compared to the touristy crowd of the former. It is primarily because this place has no tourist attractions like the Jama Masjid, Red Fort etc.

A closer look to the human activity would reveal tired yet smiling visages of the locals who are out to bask in the collective glory of festivity and celebration especially through food. From evening time till dawn, food take predominance. Some of the common food sights are the fruits mostly dates, watermelon and bananas, pakodas, rose drink, a pleasing assortment of breads like sheermal or paratha, smoking hot kebabs grilled on skewers and huge cauldrons filled with either Nahari or Biryani.

We are at Jaffrabad to experience the food culture here during the festival of Ramzan; to discover and learn about the most popular and delicious local food, the distinct flavours triggers hysteria and the relentless hands behind the culinary celebration.

In solidarity to the spirit of celebration, unlike our other food journey we commenced this food tour with an Iftar, for which we joined our friends at a local shop. First task was to buy the food items for the Iftar. It is a customary gesture if you are going for an Iftar. Everybody pitches in with some of the basic eatables that makes up an abundant supply which is then shared by all, simultaneously.

We bought some Keema golis and mixed pakodas and went on to meet our friends for Iftari. The spread comprised of fruit chaat, medley of pakodas and rose flavoured drink. After this light initial spread came the main dishes comprising of Nahari and Khameeri roti. That the Nahari was brilliant can be assessed from the satisfying expressions of the fellow eaters.

With the Iftar done right, it was time to embark on the Ramzan food tour across the market. Our first stop was the Haji Ikbal Sheermal Wale. We were here for some fresh and hot Nan Khatais or Indian shortbread cookies. We were lucky to witness the making of a fresh batch of golden brown beauties. They were soft, crumbly and irresistible.

Next stop was a popular kebab shop thronged by the locals. Nawab bhai kebab wale is an interesting place that we recommend for the tastiest kebabs in the locality. We tried their famous sheekh kebabs right off the skewers and believe us they were amazing. Very interestingly the kitchen in this eatery sits above the shop and the hot kebabs are lowered to the ground floor shop area by a pulley set up. The owners too were extremely gentle and humble. This place won our heart.

Next stop was the Afaq Zaika Chicken. We tried their special butter chicken tikka. It comprised of perfectly grilled chicken pieces tossed in a creamy and buttery sauce made with curd, butter and minimal spices. With all its rich and robust components, this dish can’t go wrong. Its was delectable and addictive although the insane amount of butter can surely give you jitters. The dish was a representation of the iconic Aslam Butter chicken from Old Delhi. In due course of the conversation we came to know that they are kins.

While ambling down the lanes we came to a place frying Khajlas, a Ramzan time snacks that is eaten mostly during Shehri. Next we halted at a bread shop. Traditional breads are the inevitable part of the meal during Ramzan. They had an eclectic variety of breads of which we loved the Coconut one the most. After this was the turn of some mixed fruit shake from a street side cart. It was refreshing and had a custard like taste.

Then was the turn of a shop selling matar pulav, tehri and biryani. The taste of these vegetarian rice delicacies were so wonderful that we had to label it as a culinary discovery in the area. Imagine what a humble yet spectacular stuff it must be so as to win the heart of a hardcore biryani aficionado like me.

Right after it we also gorged on a delicious plate of Haleem biryani again from a street side stall that was swarmed with a super enthusiastic crowd. We literally jostled our way through them to collect our order. This place was a star.

From there we reached Islam Milk store, a place that everybody had recommended. With great curiosity we spoke to the owner and the customers to understand the amazing popularity of this milk joint. And with one sip of their rose flavoured milk we got all our answers. They have mastered the perfect ratio in which the three ingredients should be mixed so as to get the ambrosial byproduct. We left convinced that a glassful of milk can actually make adults smile.

Our penultimate stop was Cool point where we tasted one of the most decadent Shahi Tukda. The fact that they double fry the thing before serving makes it different from the ilk. Along with a scoop of their in house mango ice cream, this dessert attained great height in taste.

After so much gluttony that we didn’t at all regret, we ended the food tour with a paan. Jaffrabad emerged as a foodie haven with some gems that cant be missed.

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Posted on April 28, 2019

Vadodara food tour part 1

Today we visit Vadodara, formally known as Baroda as we begin our food tour. Vadodara is a beautiful city filled with culture and is the third largest city in the western part of India and the state Gujrat. It is also the cultural capital of the state, the locals are known as barodians and they immensely love their street food. The street food culture is vibrant with great influence of Maharashtrian cuisine. Both Maharashtrian and Gujrat cuisine coincide and co-exist with eachother. Also, the city happens to be technologically sound and well-maintained.

Along with Tuli Banerjee, a writer and a food blogger we embark on this journey to explore their street food. We started with kathiawadi khadki, a famous restaurant known to serve famous kathiawadi dishes. We were served with a full-fledged thali which consisted of two different kinds of bread, millet bread and corn bread along with sev tamatar, garlic pickle, and potatoes in garlic sauce, ringanu audu. Kathiawadi dishes are lot more spicy as compared to gujrati dishes since they are more on the sweet side. We ended our meal with rajbhog shrikhand filled with dry fruits is mainly made from hung yogurt and gehu ka ladoo topped with poppy seeds and is infused with ghee and jaggery.

We next headed to vishal samosa sandwich where we tried their basic sev sandwich. Our next destination was mahakali sev usal and tried their sev usal, a dish which is a mix of sweet, spicy and tangy flavours which is made from peas, indian spices, and garnished with sev. The dish is accompanied with pav. Right opposite to this shop we went to Rajasthan ice cream parlour which houses a huge variety of ice-creams. Here we tried one scoop of modak flavour, ginger and honey flavour, guava flavour, jamun flavour, jackfruit flavour, pan masala flavour, mawa flavour and kulf flavour. Each and every scoop had its own different taste and stood out. We also tried their rabri faluda ice-cream. Undoubtedly, when it comes to street food Gujrat is a land of innovations!

We also went to raju omelette shop which has its own outlets in USA, Thailand and Dubai and houses 30 different varieties of omelettes. We went on to try the butter crush omelette filled with loads of butter. Next, was Dayal Ragda pattice where we tried the ragda pattice, it is made up of potatoes and bread and is served with spicy chick pea curry topped with coriander chutney and crushed onions.

A very important component of Gujrati cuisine is farsan, salty snacks. In order to try this we head to Jagdish farshan where we try the local delicacies. Really crispy and crunchy, Gujrat is certainly a land of snacks! We next headed to mann shanti handwa and dhokla house. Here we tried the Handwo, a pan cake made up of multi-grain flour tempered with sesame seeds, mustard seeds and curry leaves. Truly delicious and was served with three different varieties of chutneys that simply complimented the dish. We stopped briefly at the delhi chaat corner to try pani puri with ragda. We also tried papdi na lot, a thick paste of rice flour which is steamed and is topped with oil and masala. Lastly, we head to Jay maruti nandan soda shop. A shop that is highly innovative with its soda drinks. We tried vimto soda drink, made with kokam, lemon and masala. We also tried the tulsi soda, extremely healthy and good for digestion after a full day filled with delicacies from around the city!

Places visited:

kathiawadi khadki

Four Ways, Navrang Cinema Rd, Near Tower, Raopura, Mandvi, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001

Jay maruti nandan soda shop

2, Shivalay Complex, Lions Hall Rd, Haribhakti Extension, Krishna Society, Paris Nagar, Diwalipura, Vadodara, Gujarat 390015

delhi chaat corner

Mahalaxmi Complex, Near Bank of Baroda, Muktanand Road, Karelibaug, Vadodara

mann shanti handwa and dhokla house

Mahalaxmi Complex, Near Bank of Baroda, Muktanand Road, Karelibaug, Vadodara

raju omelette shop

C196, Thana Rd, Block C 2, Bhajanpura, Tukhmirpur, Delhi, 110053

vishal samosa sandwich

101, Alkapuri Rd, Aradhana Society, Vishwas Colony, Alkapuri, Vadodara, Gujarat 390020

mahakali sev usal

Nehru Bhawan, GF-14/15 Prathmesh Plaza, Palace Rd, Kirti Stambh, Behind, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001

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Posted on April 28, 2019

SURAT FOOD TOUR PART 2:

Today, we explore the part of South Gujrat and Gujarat is certainly beautiful during heavy rains and monsoon and it only gets better with a hot cup of Chai! Along with Rohan Bhai and Yash Bhai we head to a morning chai place known as the Golden Tea point under the citylight flyover.

Later we head to a small town in Gujarat known as Rander where the local food culture assimilated the Burmese street food known as the Khaosa and the architecture is to look out for! We head to Lijjat khvasa centre and try their Khaosa. Khaosa is pan-fried chicken fried with lots of spices and served with green chillis, broth whose main component is peanut paste is topped with crushed papdi. Next we tick off the list, a 32 year old food cart run by Khalid bhai known as the Khalid aloo puri waala and tried their aloo puri, a bite-size dish served with white flour puris topped with, aloo, kokam chutney and sprinkled with crushed onions. After a quick tour of Rander, we headed to try an innovative dish known as locho. Here we try locho’s two different versions one with the peanut oil and the other with butter at Shriji Locho. Locho is a morning breakfast loved by people in Gujrat.

Next we moved to Madidi khamni shop and tried their Sew Khamni and Surti pettice which is basically, fried balls stuffed with mawa, dry fruits, fennel seeds and spices served with coriander chutney. Here we try the famous, Khandvi which is made up of besan. They are so thin in texture so they’re served rolled and are very delicate when it comes to its taste.

Next, we move on to Jalram Rasawala khaman and try their Rasawala khaman served with thick curry with is made up of 5 different kinds of dal and tempered with mustard seeds and topped with tomatoes and coriander leaves. This is best served with sweet lassi. Next we tried the popular drink of Surat known as Coco at A one coco a 60 year old shop. It is a thick drink made up of milk, chocolate powder, sugar and ice. We next headed to Dotiwala bakers and confectioners. Here we try the Naankhatai and surti biscuits. Surti biscuits are small-sized butter biscuits and they have short-breads known as Naankhatai.

In the evening, we headed to Lashkari Bhajiya. And here we try the Ratalu and tomato bhajiya. It is one of the most famous bhajiya shops in Gujrat. The deep-fried golden bhujiyas is served with green chillis and mustard chutney. Next, we try authentic surti non-vegetarion dishes like tapelu, prawn masala, bhajelu and much more… We try the prawn curry served in nice coriander gravy, sprinkled with Indian spices and topped it up with lemon juice! It was a bomb for the taste pallet! To end the meal, we go to the the ghantewaala paan shop and try their rose paan which simply melts in the mouth!

PLACES VISITED:

Golden Tea point

Lal Gate Main Road, Lal Gate, Surat – 395003, Opposite Chauta Bazar

Madidi khamni shop

Plot No 9, Bharat Housing, Udhna Magdala Road, Surat – 394210, Near Sardar Park

Lijjat khvasa centre

Kabutar Khana Mota Bazar Rd, Rander, Surat, Gujarat 395005

Lashkari Bhajiya

Sultanabad, Langar Char Rasta, Surat – Dumas Rd, Surat, Gujarat 394550

The ghantewaala paan shop

Gh-7, Western Park, Adajan Dn, Surat – 395009, Near Gangeshwar Mandir, Sneh Sankul Wadi

A one coco

L-42, Sargam Shopping Center, 1, Surat – Dumas Rd, Parle Point, Somanath Society, Umra Gam, Athwa, Surat, Gujarat 395007

Shriji Locho

1B, City Light Rd, Shringar Society, City Light Town, Athwa, Surat, Gujarat 395007

Khalid aloo puri waala

Parsiwad Rd, Rander, Surat, Gujarat 395005

Jalram Rasawala khaman

Chowkbazar,Nr.Jai Shankar Lassi,Surat., Surat, Gujarat 395003

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Posted on April 28, 2019

SURAT FOOD TOUR PART 1:

Today we explore the city of diamonds, Surat in Gujrat, India and explore their street food. Situated on the banks of Tapi river on the gulf of Khambat Surat is also known as the textile hub of the region or textile city of India. The culture of Surat has evolved and emerged into a beautiful amalgamation of other various cultures as people moved from various cities and communities to settle in the city.

Surat has a vibrant street food culture because of the assimilation of people from various diverse backgrounds. Today, with Rohan bhai an entrepreneur we tag along in search of amazing Surat street food.

4 am, early morning we headed out for an early breakfast to Zampa bazaar, old Surat. Even in early morning the bazaar was bustling live with people enjoying the breakfast. We straight head to chanbhai barahandi and try their nalli nahari with paya and fresh tandoori roti. Surprisingly, it is 120 years old! Nothing but, iconic. A very wholesome breakfast to begin the day with. Nalli nahari is tradiotnally non-vegetarian dish which is cooked slowly and found mainly in Old Delhi. Few steps from the shop we reach another shop where we try freshly- cooked malpuas. Here, the batter of malpuas was made using eggs. A perfect desert after a heavy meal! We then also tried the bun maska with fruit jam, a sweet bun lathered with homemade white butter and mixed-fruit jam. Our deal with zampa bazaar ended with a hot cup of tea and it’s a must go-to place when one comes to visit Surat.

Later in the day, Urviben, a food blogger joined us for lunch at G Dada shop. Here we try the Undhiyo, Handwo and vedmi all specialities of Gujrat. Here we tried the authentic Undhiyo which is available mostly and only in winters at this restaurant its present 365 days a year. We also try the kesar jalebis, perfectly cooked with an apt taste of saffron. Moreover, we also tried the other two dished Handwo and vedmi served with yoghurt. Its pretty similar to uttapam. Handwo is crispy and fluffy; all at once. In fact, its protein enriched thus, healthy. While Vedmi, is made of dal and topped with a strong cardamom taste.

We then next go to Hajoori Kulfi and try the khajoor akhrot which is milk-based and healthy! Next we try a unique fusion dish known as the khakhra chaat and kachori chaat at jalaram dana chana. The khakra chaat is served with ketchup, green chutney, chopped onions, tomatoes and coriander topped with fried masala peanuts and sev. Infact, they are served with cult cheese and mayonnaise! While the kachori chaat is served with chopped tomatoes, onions and coriander leaves, sprinkled with masala and lemon juice. It is a wholesome meal in itself! We also, try the Jeeru, a local carbonated drink with the taste of jeera (cumin). It is a digestive drink, certainly, to be consumed after a good heavy Guajarati meal!

We then went to Khaudra gali, a street food lane in old town of Surat to try various other dishes. We first head towards, Mahesh dosa centre and try their Mysore dosa sprinkled with lots of spring onions and garlic. It is very thin in its consistency. Next, we go to Hanumante ice cream shop and try their badam shake topped with three scoops of ice-cream all of different flavours. Mainly, rose, mawa malai, rajbhog and American nut.

After a quick tour of the gali we briefly stop at the sarasiya khaaja shop to try a monsoon speciality khaaja. They are quite crispy & flaky and is best served with a cup of tea. We then move to shah jamnadas ghariwala an iconic shop established in 1989 where we try the traditional sweet known as ghari. We try the kesar badam Ghari, served with loads of ghee and stuffed with mawa and dry fruits.

Later, along with Basyt Saleh we again head to zampa bazaar and first go to Mohmaddi bakery and try their tunki. A speciality of Surat, it is a short crispy bread sprinkled with sesame seeds and also has pepper. Tunki is made up of white flour and is mainly consumed with mutton tikka. Next, we move to Sagar restaurant and try their chicken macchi masala. The chicken is marinated in fish masala and the gravy is very thick and rich in taste. Another speciality of this place is naan chaap and to try this we head to MG Chaapwala. The naan is stuffed with mint, kokam chutney and keema served with onions. It was a perfect meat sandwich full of bursting flavours! We go to a famous omelette centre known as the bhai bhai omelette shop which have 150 varieties of omelette.

Places visited:

Zampa bazaar

Madanzapa Rd, Opposite Azad Maidan, Bakrawadi, Sultanpura, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001

G Dada shop

4, Radhenagar Society, Ichhanath Road, Surat – 395007, Opposite Anmol Complex, Near Sargam Shopping Centre

Hajoori Kulfi

Shop No 1/3816, Chowk Bazar, Surat – 395003

Khaudra gali

opp. Gujarat Housing Board , opp. siddhi vinayak packaging , Tulsidham -, GIDC, Road ., vadodara , Gujarat, Gujarat 390011

Mahesh dosa centre

6/141, Khaudhara Gali, Shitalnath Chowk, Haripura Main Road, Haripura, Near Vinod Fashionwear, Surat-395003

Hanumante ice cream shop

Shop No 11, Nirmal Nagar, Parab Road, Sarthana, Surat – 395006, Sarthana Jakatnaka

sarasiya khaaja shop

3rd Floor, 13- Charotar Society, Manisha Chowkadi, O P Road, Vadodara, Gujarat 390020

shah jamnadas ghariwala

Opp. Mahalaxmi Mataji Temple, Shop No 19, Royal Residency, Ground floor Near Anand Mahal Rd, Chhatrapati Shivaji Cir, Adajan Gam, Adajan, Surat, Gujarat 395009

Mohmaddi bakery

Shop No 946/3, Zamba Bazar, Zampa Bazar, Surat – 395003, Opp.Monginis Cace Shop

Sagar restaurant

Kothi Road, Near Prince Cinema, Jubilee Baug, Sursagar North, Mandvi, Vadodara

MG Chaapwala

Near Patthar Gate, Madan Zampa, Chokshi Bazar, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001

bhai bhai omelette shop

Triveni Apartments, Shop- No 5, 6, Ground Floor, Nanpura New Rd, Opposite LIC Office, Timaliawad, Nanpura, Surat, Gujarat 395001

DFW Content Hub

Posted on March 23, 2018 March 23, 2018

Dettol Delhi Street Food Awards 2018

And the winners are-

Aloo Tikki: Natraj Chaat, Chandni Chowk

Having served generations of Dilliwaale since 1940, Natraj Chaat is one of those places in town that has managed to retain its authenticity throughout the decades. It is only with them that simple chaat delicacies like Dahi Bhalle and Aloo Tikki have managed to become almost a heritage item in the heart of Old Delhi.

Gol Gappe: Ashok Chaat Bhandar, Chawri Baazaar

You cannot talk about food in Delhi without talking about Gol Gappe, and someone who’s the best in the city for this snack is Ashok Chaat Bhandar. It serves up some of the most delicious mouthfuls of this tangy delight that you can find in the National Capital Region.

Papdi Chaat: Shri Balaji Chaat Corner, Chandni Chowk

Located in the heart of the bustling streets of Puraani Dilli, Shri Balaji Chaat Corner’s Papdi Chaat is just the right kind of crunchy with balanced sweetness and their Dahi Bhallas are beautifully done, melt-in-mouth satisfaction. All in all, their dedication to doing simple things right wins hearts!

Samosa: Chaina Ram Sweets, Chandni Chowk

Come holidays, and you see rows and rows of people lining up in front of this legendary outlet for their (extra) ordinary samosa! While this place is mostly known among the locals for its perfect sweets, the occasional passer by knows that their samosas are to die for.

Banta: Vedprakash Lemon, Chandni Chowk

No matter what age you are or what the weather is like, whether you’re a regular visitor or a first-timer, Vedprakash Banta brings relief the tired body like nothing else. This drink is best enjoyed in the scorching heat. Their unique masala combination pumps life into the hustle-bustle of the city!

Momos: Dolma Aunty, Lajpat Nagar

It is said that Delhi’s favourite street food, momos, came to the city with Dolma Aunty, and since then, the humble street-side vendor has established what a happy plate means to us. The chutneys with the momos are particularly zingy and spicy. Dolma Aunty’s momos will always be the city’s first and last momo love.

Chole Bhature: Chacha Chole Bhature, Kamla Nagar

Oh how we envy North Campus, Delhi University student but for a very specific reason! Chacha Chole Bhature has been a local favourite amongst Kamla Nagar residents and DU students, but when it comes to taste, nobody makes this North Indian fried favourite like them.

Rajma Chawal: Jain Chawal Wala, Connaught Place

Rajma Chawal is very close to the hearts of those from Delhi, and always has some homely nostalgia and love attached to it. This lovely little street corner in the colonnaded centre of the city brings us a hot plate of nutrition and protein to us and makes it always feel like a Sunday afternoon at home.

Bedmi Poori: Shyam Sweets, Chawri Bazaar

Bedmi Poori might be easily available but not everyone can get the sort of freshness with the dal-stuffed poori and the tanginess of the aaloo as Shyam Sweets. They have been bringing the perfectly authentic taste of Bedmi Poori to the heart (or stomach?) of Delhi since decades.

Nagori Halwa: Shiv Mishthan Bhandar, Chandni Chowk

The only disappointment this legend holds is the possibility of its beloved Nagori Halwa, made freshly every morning in massive amounts, running out by noon! Have a hearty breakfast with the piping hot Nagori Halwa at this lovely restaurant and you will be left craving for it every morning.

Parantha: Moolchand Paranthe Waala, Moolchand

How to make staple food like paranthas mind blowing? Moolchand Paranthe Waala is able to accomplish precisely that. Their crispy layers of scrumptiously buttered paranthas have made them a popular present day legend when it comes to authentic Delhi food.

Kulfi: Roshan Di Kulfi

Karol Bagh – For anyone who has to face the blatant rush of Karol Bagh at absolutely any time of the week, the thought of Roshan Di Kulfi stands out like a calming consolation. Served perfectly with Kesar Rabri, this place is a go-to even in the coldest of the weathers.

Nihari: Kallu Nihaari, Turkman Gate

Kallu Nihari overlooks the magnificent Jama Masjid and the Nihari looks deceptively like a simple dish garnished with shredded ginger and sliced green chilli, but the first taste of it will make you realise the reason behind the hundreds of people patiently waiting everyday for this difficult-to-be-perfected delicacy.

Paan: Gupta Paan, Connaught Place

Gupta Paan, popularly known as Odeon Paan, has changed the way the city has looked at paan over the years. Introducing Ice Paan, Fire Paan, Chocolate Paan, and various other paan variations, Gupta Paan is not your average street-side tobacco seller.

Seekh Kebab: Qureshi Kebab, Jama Masjid

Think of Qureshi Kebab and the immediate picture in your mind is that of biting into a juicy, tender, perfectly cooked piece of kebab. Located amongst a throng of excellent kebab-sellers, Qureshi Kebab is yet another outlet which wins over because of their effort and ability to leave a tummy happy.

Chai: Singing Tree, CR Park

Delhi stays alive because of its tea sellers, and Singing Tree, CR Park, is a breather for anyone who happens to pass by. With tens of variations of street-side tea on the menu, this humble chai stall is a manifestation of all that a chai-break is meant to be: conversations, music, coming across acquaintances, the shade of a tree, and delicious, delicious tea.

Kachori: Fateh Ki Kachori, Civil Lines

The name of the place itself is love for us. Again, something as central to street food as kachori is difficult to make in a way that it sets itself apart, and Fateh Ki Kachori, in all its humility, has done it for so long and for so many with its tasty topping of chole and chutney.

Pakode: Khandani Pakode Wala, Nauroji Nagar

Khandani Pakode Wala does not only bring a twist to the regular pakoda by introducing varieties, but also makes sure that their food carries with it, a sense of homeliness and warmth. It is, truly, “khandani”, and has many a person’s evening on a rainy day or Monday.

Chole Kulche: Lotan Kulche Waala, Chawri Baazaar

This vendor has been running on generations of love for the quintessentially Delhi dish – Chole Kulche. It embodies everything that the authentic dish is supposed to be, while also catering to an everyday Delhiite’s taste buds with its uber spicy chole and soft, heavenly kulche.

Special Category Awards

Hall of Fame: Old Kheer Shop, Chandni Chowk

The name of this place carries with it, not just the thought of the sweetest dessert, Kheer, but also its tradition. You can taste generations of effort and love put into making this sweet dish so central to North India, in their little bowls of happiness!

Women Food Entrepreneurs: ILHAM Afghan Cuisine

ILHAM is an initiative to provide financial stability to Afghan women who have settled in Delhi as refugees from Afghanistan. Supported by ACCESS, the venture has been received warmly by the public in the nearly one and a half year since its inception. Besides catering for events and other orders, these women also bring their extensive Afghani culinary knowledge to the table. They have been trained by ACCESS in entrepreneurship, and their story is as inspiring as it is heartwarming. We can’t wait to see how successful these ladies will be in the future!

Best Street Food Fusion: Rajiv Bhai Ke Special Pizza Omelette, Palam Extension

This East meets West combination is as delicious as it is Instagrammable! Combining the desi street-side omelette with pizza toppings, makes this fusion dish unique, appetising and pretty perfect.

Trending Street Food: KB Chaat’s Moonglet, Karol Bagh

When it comes to innovation, KB Chaat has made sure that street food does not only represent the usual varieties, but also always evolves with times. The Moonglet, a Moong Daal Omelette, is a fluffy dish stuffed with a variety of vegetables. This place is a saviour for creating a vegetarian omelette, making it the talk of the town.

Photo Album- https://www.facebook.com/pg/DelhiFoodWalks/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1766752270075313

Anubhav Sapra

Anubhav Sapra is an avid foodie! He is a Founder but proudly calls himself a Foodie-in-chief at Delhi Food Walks. He is also a street-food and Indian regional cuisine connoisseur and loves to write about street-food.

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on February 9, 2018 February 9, 2018

Punjabi Khanna (Amritsari-Tawa)

Punjabi food with its unique and wide range of flavours has caught the fancy of many food lovers across the country. Delhi is lucky to have many eateries and restaurants lined across the city serving the most lipsmacking Punjabi delicacies which is mainly derived from Punjab and Pakistan. The passion for Punjabis have for their food is not just restricted within their community but they have also spreading the charm of their flavours across city, and particularly so in Old Delhi.

Punjabi Khanna is one such outlet which is offering some of the best non-veg food from past 30-35 years. The flavor of each of their food is rich and authentic, and the ultimate answer to your Punjabi food cravings.

This modest restaurant was set up by two brothers Manjeet Singh and Inderjeet Singh in the small and cramped lanes of old Delhi.

Every item in their menu is bursting of authentic Punjabi flavours, be it tikkas or gravy based items.

The most outstanding dish from their menu was mutton chap which was a delight. The melt-in-mouth delicacy would stay back with you long after you have left the place.

Mutton was generously marinated with strong spices which resulted in a mouthwatering dish. The main highlight that distinguishes it from all other chaaps is the gravy which is not usually served with the dish.

The gravy deserves extra applause for its spicy and tangy essence which goes well with the chaap, both of the items do not overpower each other, they get their own moments to shine.

This single dish is served with some chopped onions and a lemon. And lastly it is garnished with some finely chopped mint leaves.

This chaap is so famous that it has to be pre-ordered to be booked beforehand so that the vendors don’t run out of their biggest-seller.

This chaap goes well with the tandoori roti which is also semi fried with the spicy gravy so that you don’t miss the flavor even for a second. The gravy helps keep the flatbread moist too.

Beside these dishes there are a lot of other items which are also worth trying like mutton biryani ,mutton seekh kabab which is processed by them only. Rajma chawal is another highlight of their restaurant but it is only available once a week on Tuesday.

This restaurant is mostly packed throughout the week. Weekdays are generally lighter than the weekends. If you for looking something hot, spicy and authentically Punjabi- this is where you head.

Location: 32-33 Main, Azad Market Rd, Azad Market

Timings: (Afternoon) : 1:30pm-4:30pm

(Evening) : 6:00pm-9:30pm

Cost for two: 500(approx.)

Contact number : 9999937132

DFW Content Hub

Posted on August 29, 2017

Madan Lal Halwai

By Anubhav Sapra

DFW is doing a series on 50 must-eats to find out those real hidden gems on the streets of Delhi. The third in the series is Madan Lal Halwai in Sadar Thana Road, Sadar Bazar. One of the oldest halwai shops in Old Delhi, the eatery was started in 1948 by Late Madan Lal. Currently run by Chaman Lal and his son Manish Sethi, the family migrated to Delhi after partition and started the halwai shop in Sadar Bazar. Chaman lal ji has a pleasant personality and he fed me generously, the day I visited the place.

As you enter the shop, on the left hand side is the cooking area where fresh pooris and other snacks are cooked. The menu changes from morning to evening. The day starts with poori and sabzi while the afternoons are filled with the regular servings of snacks like samosa, Moong Dal Ladoo etc.

The eatery is more popular for breakfast dishes that includes Poori stuffed with dal pitthi, served with Aloo and Chhole ki sabzi and the highlight is the seasonal pickle you get with the poori sabzi plate. I was fortunate to try Lounji ka achar – sweet mango pickles with fennel seeds and Kachalu ka Achar. I loved the combination of sweet mango pickles and savoury Kachalu ka Achar. The preparation is completely prepared in Desi ghee. Although a winter speciality, I guess, this is the only place in Delhi where you can savour Dal ka Halwa round the year. The Ghee in the halwa was not overflowing and the sugar was just perfect. As I reached there in the afternoon, I got a chance to try fresh Samosas.

The style of making samosas in Old Delhi is completely different from other parts of Delhi. The big-size pieces of potatoes are deep fried and then mixed with spices to be stuffed in the dough. At other places, it is mostly boiled potatoes- mashed up and mixed with spices. I quite like the fried version of potato stuffing.

We rounded our food journey at Madan Lal Halwai with Moong Dal ka Halwa, Patisa, Gulabjamun and Lassi. All of the sweets were excellent. The square shaped pieces of burfi were big in size, quite uncommon at other sweet shops.

The 50 must eats in Delhi series is taking us at different food places. It is the journey to explore our food heritage and recognize the efforts of people who make this food more special. If you have any recommendations to be included in the list, please write to us at delhifoodwalks@gmail.com and follow the #50musteatsindelhi journey on www.facebook.com/delhifoodwalks and www.instagram.com/delhifoodwalks

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on July 22, 2017 July 22, 2017

Mister Chai

By Anubhav Sapra

While you have been scrolling through your instagram feed this monsoon, I am sure the photos of Pakoda, samosa, bun maska and chai have been popping up as the rains envelope India. It does make, one yearn for some spicy and warm food. My own all time favourite monsoon snack has been roasted corn or bhutta with lemon and masala.

With snacks, a cup of regular local milk chai or cutting chai with different spice flavours- elaichi, cinnamon or a simple masala chai makes the small difference between a chai on a regular day and the one on a rainy day. The street side tea served in a traditional glass or kulhad with steam coming out of it is the only thing that has been able to encompass the wet and cozy feeling you yearn for .

The monsoon menu at Mister Chai, the tea restaurant at Shangrila’s Eros hotel is trying to take this feeling from the street side and serve it to you while you look out at the damp roads from your own luxurious cocoon.The menu is beautifully curated by Chef Neeraj Tyagi keeping intact the local flavours but like always with a twist.

Our monsoon journey began with a cutting chai served in a traditional chai ki tapri. The rusks in a small tin accompanied the tea. The idea of dipping the rusks into the tea to soak the flavours is a classic street thing across India.

Next, I tried the spicy keema and potato pakodas served with sweet and tangy chutney. The usual bread pakoda is stuffed with mashed potatoes and keema. The assorted pakoda platter served on a toy cart had aloo, paneer, palak and mirchi pakodas. The best part of it all was that it was not oily. The chef revealed that the pakodas are fried twice so that it doesn’t absorb much oil.

The highlight of the monsoon menu was the Kulcha. The traditional amristari aloo kulchas , served on a wooden taco stand were filled with pulled jackfruit and goat’s cheese. I am sure it will taste delicious with pulled pork as well. The texture of jackfruit added a meaty texture and compliments with the softness of aloo kulchas. Really loved the combination!

Some of the other dishes on the monsoon menu are bhutta(steamed and char grilled served with Cajun spice, herb butter and lime ) Akuri Toast (Parsi scrambled egg), and the popular delhi’s special street food – Ram ladoo.

The monsoon menu is available every day at Mister Chai from 11 am to 9 pm till 31^st August.

Address: Lobby Level, Shangri-La’s – Eros Hotel, New Delhi, 19 Ashoka Road, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com