north campus – Page 2 – Delhi Food Walks

Posted on May 22, 2016

TONY’S

By Prakriti Bhat

Delhi University’s North Campus can surely be called a student hub. Apart from housing some of the most popular colleges, the area also provides different modes of recreation for students. Kamla Nagar (K-Nags) caters to your basic needs like clothing, books and has some really good eating joints while GTB Nagar is brimming with student friendly cafes. Another popular area is the Patel Chest Market which sells all kinds of questions papers and from where you can get your notes photocopied at a very cheap price. What many people don’t know is that this area also houses some really cool and pocket friendly eating joints.

One of the eating joints here is Tony’s. It is a tiny stall that whips up some amazing toasts and sandwiches. There’s no seating arrangement except one small table where you can gorge on their food. Tony’s was started 6-7 months ago by Mr. Robin and his friend’s father, Tony. The place gained popularity with its unique concept of serving different types of toasts and now the owners are planning to open a café in Kamla Nagar.

At a walking distance from the Vishwavidyalaya metro station, Tony’s boasts of an impressive line-up of toasts, both vegetarian and non vegetarian. From the conventional Chilli Cheese Garlic Toast to Peanut Butter Toast, they have covered it all. If you’re staying in a PG or hostel nearby, you can also get it packed since they have that facility. I went for a Nutella Cheese Toast and Salami Toast. The Nutella Cheese Toast did not have any toast so I don’t really know why they have that in the name. However, it is one of the best innovations to be whipped out of Nutella. Two slices of bread are pressed together with Chocolate syrup and the top of the sandwich is smeared with copious amounts of Nutella and Choco chips. The final product is a mesmerizing piece of art which is too pretty to bite into!

Be prepared since the Nutella Toast gets your hands all messy with the Nutella and the choco syrup used for finishing touches on the top. The Nutella doesn’t make the bread soggy and the crunch is an additional delight to the sweet rendezvous. The Salami Toast is not a part of their printed regular menu but was written on the tiny blackboard at the stall. It is basically a sandwich prepared with a creamy cheese spread and slices of chicken salami. The sandwich is grilled and divided into 4 quadrants with oregano sprinkled on the top. This one was a crunchy and meaty affair. The service was quick and even the packing is quite good.

And the best part? The entire meal costed just 100 bucks which is a delight for any student suffering from the “mahina gul, paisa gul” syndrome!

Cost for two- Rs. 150-200

Address- Booth 13, Opposite Patel Chest Institute, North Campus, Delhi University

Contact No. – 9811176173

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 March 19, 2016 March 19, 2016

RAJU BHAIYA KE RAJMA CHAWAL

By Prakriti Bhat

Student life means grueling lectures, all nighters, nearly empty pockets and a forever rumbling tummy. The lunch that you take along vanishes before the lunch break (courtesy like-minded hungry souls) and by the ned of the day, you become a hunger struck maniac. Looking for pocket friendly places becomes a your chief concern and you’re ready to gobble it all up.

It was on such a day that I stumbled upon a tiny cart parked outside Law Faculty that served Rajma Chawal and coffee. The man, Raju has been feeding the North Campus crowd for about 10-12 years. After enjoying a wholesome plate of Rajma Chawal and a cup of coffee, I proceeded to ask him how it all began and the story was quite interesting.

His father was a businessman in Rawalpindi and shifted to Saharanpur around 2-3 years before partition. His business suffered a setback there after which the family shifted to Maharashtra. Raju bhaiya was only 2 months old when they shifted, yet again, to Delhi. About 10-12 years ago, Raju Bhaiya started off by selling tea and coffee. He then graduated to selling Maggi too and was a quite a hit amongst the students. He says, “We had to stop the Maggi business because it took quite some time to be made. It was getting quite cumbersome.”

About 2-3 years ago, he strated selling Rajma Chawal. Around 12-12:30 p.m., you will always find a teeming crowd of students near his stall. Unlike other street vendors, he serves the food very gently and pours just the right amount Rajma; neither less nor too much so as to flood your plate. And the quantity is good enough for two people as well. The plump grains of rice and Rajma make quite an impressive heap on your plate.

The Rajma is not very greasy or spicy and therefore can be eaten with ease even by the health freaks. This simplicity of preparation reminds you of home cooked food as it will taste similar. Boxes of salt, chaat masala and pickles are kept aside if you want to add more flavor to your meal. And the best part is that a plate of Rajma Chawal costs only 80 bucks. An inexpensive and piping hot plate of Raju bhaiya’s Rajma Chawal is just what you need to refuel your body after college. They serve one of the best coffees you can ever find on Chhatra Marg. Each cup is sprinkled with cocoa powder; a tradition that is gradually vanishing in favour of coffee art at big restaurant and cafes.

Location- Outside Law faculty, Chhatra Marg

Cost for two- Rs. 80-90 (approx)

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on December 3, 2015 December 3, 2015

MAGGI MANIA @ WOODBOX CAFÉ

By Prakriti Bhat

The return of Maggi is perhaps the most trending topic on social media. After a hiatus of almost 5 months, it is back with a bang. From schools and colleges to offices everybody seems to be asking the same question, “Maggi khayi?” Kids are rejoicing the grand comeback and companies like snapdeal are making it accessible to people across the country. It’s a boon for hostellers and the perfect companion for late night study plans. What’s not to like? It’s easy, quick and economical.

Wood Box Café has come up with a Maggi Mania festival to celebrate its comeback. A specially curated menu for the same whips up some innovative dishes like Maggi Bhel, Maggi Nachos, Maggi Sizzler etc. Chef Chandan took us through the menu while Mr. Nitin explained the concept behind the fest. Being a huge Maggi fan myself, I was excited to try out their delicacies. The Garlic and Cheese Maggi, though low on garlic, was loaded with veggies and topped with cheese. It was a welcome delight. Peri Peri Maggi was a smooth and delectable ride. Though it wasn’t really spicy, it was quite creamy and the flavor was quite impressive.

Other dishes included Maggi bhel, Maggi Sizzler, Maggi Pizza and Maggi Salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The lineup of dishes is quite remarkable.

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on July 30, 2015 July 30, 2015

North Campus Food Joints

By Prakriti Bhat

Another phase of your life begins as you enter college. Getting into Delhi University is no piece of cake but you made it. Classes have started and you’re getting used to the DU culture. North Campus is the hub of University activities. Allow us to be your food guide through the food joints popular in and around North Campus.

KAMLA NAGAR

Chache Di Hatti– Want a taste of Dilli ke Chhole Bhature? Well, this is the place where you can get that desi feel of street food. You have to stand in a queue to place your order. The long queues here tell their own story. Meal for two- Rs.150
Shawarma Wala– Located in the lane adjacent to Mc. Donald’s; this place has gained popularity in the last few years. Their shawarmas are a hit amongst the students. Try out their Chicken Shawarma, Paneer Shawarma, Garlic Chicken Kathi Roll and virgin mojito. Meal for two-Rs. 300.
Shake Square– So you are exhausted after a series of lectures and need a quick break. Shake Square is your solace. With an array of shakes and desserts, this is bound to become your best friend. Their Oreo shake and Mocha shake are absolutely delicious. You won’t need to shell out more than 300 bucks for a quick meal of shakes and sandwiches or stuffed kulchas.
Café Youngistan– Theme restaurants are always cool. And this one promises you a pocket friendly meal as well. With jungle themed interiors, this place has gradually become a campus favourite. It could be a fancy pick for birthday treats as well. Meal for two- Rs. 1000.

GTB NAGAR

Kori’s– This one is for those who like to experiment with their plate and palate. Kori’s serves Korean cuisine and is widely known amongst the student crowd. Feast on regional delicacies like Kimbab and their much loved burgers which are quite huge. All this comes in combo meals as well. Cost for two- Rs. 500.
The Vintage Avenue– Go for a trip down the memory lane with this place. The interiors remind you of the simplicity of a bygone era. The food is absolutely delicious ranging from Italian to Indian cuisine. Their pizzas, pastas, Chicken Tikka and shakes are quite famous. Must try their Oreo shake and Kitkat shake. Meal for two-Rs. 750.
QD’s– One of the most famous student food joints. It has branches near both the campuses of Delhi University. One just can’t ignore their huge Tandoori Momos with the delicious green chutney. They also have economical Chinese combos. Again a good place for birthday treats with its funky decor! Meal for two- Rs.600.
Ricos– Walls covered with graffiti and one whole wall dedicated to a bookshelf. Interesting isn’t it? This café offers a wide variety of cuisines like American, Lebanese, Italian, Mexican and what not. Their pitchers, Chicken Stroganoff, pastas and desserts are a must try. Cost for two- Rs. 900.
Wood Box Café– In the lane adjacent to Axis Bank you will find a cottage like café with rooftop seating as well. With colorful and offbeat interiors it gives a very cozy feeling. Their shakes are just awesome, served in neatly cut bottles of Heineken. Also try their Spaghetti Aglio Olio, Chicken Lasagna, Caesar Salad, and Mushroom Sandwiches. Munch away! Cost for two- Rs. 650.
Big Yellow Door– With a cute little tedha medha yellow door as its entrance, this place sure grabs a lot of eyeballs. Warning: there is always a long waiting queue outside so try to book your table in advance. The interiors are quite good and the rates will bring a smile to your face. It’s a nice place for group hangouts. Try their Paninis, cheese bomb burger, cheesy nachos and beverages. Cost for two- Rs. 500
Cent Percent Bakery– One of the most popular bakeries in the area, this place comes to your rescue for ordering birthday cakes. With a mélange of cakes, pastries and homemade chocolates, this bakery is quite a hit amongst the North Campus crowd. Cost for two- Rs. 250.
For God’s Cake– The newest bakery in town, the place is doing quite well. It’s a bakery café so it serves food like pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and pastas, etc. Try their oval shaped pizzas, shakes, red velvet cake, cake jars and cupcakes. Also, it has charming interiors. Meal for two- Rs. 500.

CIVIL LINES

Moets– Located near the Civil Lines metro station this place serves some tasty Chinese food. Prices are a bit on the higher side but it makes for a nice option for occasional splurges. Go for their Manchurian, spring rolls and soups. Cost for two- Rs. 900.
Momos stall outside metro station– The man selling momos has been around for a long time. Joking around with the customers he always has a smile on his face. A large hearted vendor is he who gives extra chutney without creating a fuss. He is one such man! Within 40- 50 bucks you can have a sumptuous plate of momos.
Roll Club– Situated near the petrol pump, this place whips up some of the most appetizing rolls. Paneer roll, Chicken roll, Chicken egg roll, Double egg roll, Chicken keema roll are some of the best here. Meal for two- Rs. 250.
Gulab Singh Tea Stall– This modest tea stall serves the simplest snacks in a humble and loving manner. There is just one long iron bench and table. Enjoy a quiet cup of tea with bun maska or bread. Cost for two- Rs. 50-60

D SCHOOL’S CANTEEN– Perhaps one of the most sought after canteens in North Campus, D School has a lot of options to calm your hungry tummy. Some of their best dishes include Plain Dosa, Mutton Dosa, Chowmein, etc. However, the main adda at D school is JP Tea Stall which is frequently thronged by students to relish Raju Bhaiya’s hot aloo patties, muffins and their famous masala coke.

MAJNU KA TILA

Coffee House– One of the best and cheapest cafes you will come across. With doughnuts priced at Rs. 20, you are going to fall in love with their cakes, coffees and ambience. You just HAVE TO try their Mud Cake and Iced Mocha. Also check out their breakfast options. They have free wifi too! Meal for two- Rs. 150.
Ama Café– With comfortable couches and Tibetian décor, it’s a peaceful refuge from grueling schedules. Regulars swear by their Tiramisu and Cappuccino. Check out the beautiful Latte art on their hot coffees. Cost for two- Rs. 450
Tee Dee’s– If you want to try out authentic Tibetian cuisine, this is the place you should go to. It is quite pocket friendly and supposedly serves the best thukpa in Majnu Ka Tila. Other mouth watering dishes include chilly potatoes, chilly pork and Singapore noodles. Meal for two- Rs. 900

Have a flavorsome life at DU!

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on March 26, 2015 March 26, 2015

Woodbox Cafe

A BOHEMIAN ADVENTURE

By Prakriti Bhat

One is spoilt for choice at Hudson lane in GTB Nagar. It caters to every mood with an array of eating joints. From Korean to Italian, you get it all here. Since it is very close to the north campus of Delhi University, this area frequently hosts students who come here to slake their taste buds. The only way for an eatery to survive here is to be different from the others in every possible way. And Woodbox Café has managed to endure this wild race successfully. With its avant garde interiors and economical prices, Woodbox Café is a hit with the college crowd.

Manika Pahwa, an interior designer along with her brother, a budding architect, came up with the idea of establishing a restaurant where they could combine their individual skills to provide a culinary cum artistic experience to their customers. And this is how Woodbox Café was born in August 2013 in GTB Nagar. After an overwhelming response, another branch was opened up in Satyaniketan in March 2014, near Venkateshwara College. “We are consciously targeting the college crowd. They need not go far from their colleges to have a wholesome meal. Quality food and ambience are our forte. We aim to bring an offbeat food experience closer to the masses. In fact not only students but also families have visited and appreciated our outlets.”

At a walking distance from the GTB Nagar Metro station, Woodbox Café has something which many other restaurants lack-space. It has a rooftop and underground seating arrangement as well. The walls are designed in a very non conformist manner using pieces of cloth, forks, spoons, nuts and bolts, pins, etc. They add vibrancy to the whole décor. The hanging lanterns are made from strings, straws, playing cards and artificial foliage. The rooftop area is equally well decorated with broken glass bottles embedded in the wall. The wash basin is fixed upon a bicycle and over it is an old fashioned, rustic yet interesting “Victoria station” wall clock. In the evening, fairy lights adorn the canopy-like seating arrangement. With such striking interiors, it scores high on concept and designing. Another advantage that Woodbox Café has is its location. It is situated a little away from the main road and thus has a peaceful environment.

Every dish on their menu is presented well with appropriate condiments like breads, etc. Kitkat shake and Ferrero Rocher shake are lip smacking beverages which are widely popular amongst the regulars here. Their black currant soda is something to look out for. Neither very sweet nor very salty or fizzy, it is the perfect drink to quench your thirst. All drinks are served in Heineken or Grey Goose vodka bottles neatly cut to make glasses; an exceptionally innovative idea widely welcomed by the visitors. The Chicken Caesar Salad has a generous amount of chicken shreds along with a delicious dressing. It is much better than the nearby rival, Ricos’ Caesar Salad. For vegetarians, the Grilled Mushroom Sandwich is a blessing from the heavens. Each bite has a sumptuous filling of juicy mushrooms and cheese. For non vegetarians, Cheesy Grilled Chicken Sandwich wins my vote. The chicken is grilled to perfection with the requisite spices mixed with garlic, thyme and cheese. Sandwiches are served with crispy salted wafers and a dip.

The crispy honey potatoes fall flat with their not-so-appetizing flavor. The Picante Pizza is a specialty of this place. Topped with jalapenos and bell peppers it tingles your taste buds with its piquant flavour. The Indiano Chicken Tikka Pizza is a delight for the eyes and mouth. Biting into these thin crust pizzas will transport you to Italy and its rich legacy of pizzas. Penne Arabiatta is the usual white sauce pasta; tasty but nothing exquisite. Their Spaghetti Aglio Olio is a personal favourite. Laced with seasonings and chilli flakes, it is the best spaghetti I have had so far. It’s better than their other entrée, Roman Spaghetti. The pastas too are served with buttered garlic bread. Also, their Chicken Lasagna tops my list of best lasagnas. It is baked exceedingly well with a liberal topping of cheese and spicy minced chicken filling. I guarantee that this dish will leave you asking for more!

Woodbox Café is a one of its kind food chain as it works towards not just providing classy dining experience but also promotes a healthy environment. They have erected a big junk collector outside their restaurants and provide attractive discounts to people who bring in junk like papers, magazines and similar dry waste. They also have thematic menus served according to different festivals. “We are constantly re-innovating our menus and interiors and for that purpose constructive criticism is always welcome. We plan on taking the brand to other towns like Chandigarh and Dehradun”, says Manika. They recently opened ‘The Vintage Avenue’ in GTB Nagar which is fast becoming a rage with the students owing to its floral and old world interiors.

Woodbox Café is definitely the place to go if you want to have a holistic foodie experience replete with good music and prompt service.

Location- 1, DDA Market, Hudson line, Delhi University-GTB Nagar, New Delhi

Cost for 2-600 (approx)

Contact no.- 011-43090454, 9350507004

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on March 4, 2015 March 3, 2015

Coffee House

By Prakriti Bhat

Hidden in the bylanes of the colourful Tibetian colony, Majnu Ka Tila is ‘Coffee House’. It is 15-20 minutes away from the students’ hub-North Campus. Tucked away from the rest of the market, it is a cozy little underground café frequently thronged by students and adults alike. One can also spot monks coming here for a quiet cup of tea or coffee. Since its not very far from the north campus of Delhi University, 90% of the crowd will be students coming in to have a cup of coffee or a muffin before they head back to be grilled in their lectures at college. The moment you enter the place, the aroma of fresh cakes will grip you to the place till you try atleast one o them.

They have a simple menu consisting of different variants of teas, coffees, mocktails and scrumptious cakes to choose from. Their cakes and muffins are freshly baked and served hot. Their Mud Cake is the most frequently ordered dish. It is a soft and spongy chocolate cake served with a generous topping of chocolate syrup. Also, the rates are very pocket friendly. Their generous helping of marble cake is best when combined with Iced Mocha. They also serve delicious choco chip muffins and choco walnut brownies. Summers become more tolerable with a glass of green apple mojito or lemonade. The place also caters to conventional tastes by offering fresh lime soda, ice tea and canned drinks. For hot beverages, they have several drinks to choose from ranging from their special tibetian tea- bhoe ja to the more usual black coffee, herbal tea, etc..

Coffee House offers a blend of Tibetian and the traditional café culture. Breakfast becomes a delight with a sumptuous combo of cheese omlette, porridge and bread along with tea. Also, one could go for their speciality-tibetan bread. The staff is very kind and friendly. When you enter the café, they hand over a piece of paper and pen to write your order on which they come and collect from your table. Every member of the staff serves you with a big smile. The ambience is extremely warm and welcoming. You can sit there for as long as you want, nobody will disturb you. Good music plays in the background. The volume is just perfect, neither very loud nor very low. The walls are painted a subtle yellow and are adorned with beautiful posters. This is the perfect place to run away from the humdrum daily city life and just relax.

Address-39, Basement, Majnu Ka Tila

Timings- 8 AM-10 PM.

Cost for two- 200 (approx)

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on February 23, 2015

Mohan Lal Bhelpuri Wala

By: Shagun Nayar

We, Delhiites have always had a soft corner for lip-smacking street food. Walking on the roads of this beautiful city, you will encounter numerous stalls serving the best of street food that Delhi has to offer. Tired college students after lectures, Children on Sunday evenings and the Diet cheaters after a tiring walk or a session at the gym are bound to find themselves being drawn to their favourite street food, if it’s even possible to pick one. I, for one can never choose.

However, a good plate of Bhelpuri always finds its way to my top 3 and so, I went on a mini Bhelpuri expedition to find my favourite plate of Bhelpuri in north campus. To my pleasant surprise, the stall/vendor serving the best is situated right in-between Hindu College and the Delhi School of Economics. It has a prime location as it always swamped with college students at any given time of the day. You are bound to bump into students walking in and out of their college gates with a plate of Mohan Bhaiya’s famous Bhelpuri in their hands.

Rumour has it that Mohan Bhaiya used to be lab assistant in one of north campus colleges but after careful consideration and the realisation that with his special green chutney and fresh produce he could serve the best Bhelpuri at campus without question, he decided to part ways with his job as a day assistant and started his own little business venture thereby earning more money and living a more relaxed life.

Situated on the same path as the bus stop stand for Hindu College, Delhi School of Economics and St. Stephan’s, students usually sit on the bus stop bench blabbering about their lectures, crushes & upcoming events while eating this divine mixture of puffed rice, peanuts, papri, green chillies, onions, boiled potatoes, coriander, tomato topped over with the special green chutney that makes Mohan Bhaiya’s Bhelpuri the best in campus. He also caters to the other lot by serving his delicious version of Sevpuri topped over with tiny pieces of red apple and a sweet red chutney which is equally delicious and popular.

Another reason for his popularity among numerous other vendors serving the exact street food item is that he makes it fresh from scratch finishing off his delicious rendition of the same by adding freshly chopped coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice to give it that extra freshness an zing. So, the next time you’re craving a plate of spicy, salty Bhelpuri make sure you look up Mohan Bhaiya for he will not disappoint.

Rate: Rs.20 for a small plate&Rs.25 for a large plate.

Timings: 11:00am-6:00pm

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on February 2, 2015 February 2, 2015

COFFEE with Raju Bhaiya

By Shagun Nayar

On my way back from college, I found myself craving a hot cup of well-made coffee on a rather cold windy winter evening. Okay, so one thing about staying or studying in north campus (A part of Delhi University) is that, you find innumerable places to eat. They range from the local Cholla-Kulcha Waala, the small stalls serving hot steamed Momo’s to the fancy well lit up cafes at Hudson. But having stayed and studied here for over a year and a half I have come to realise that there are very few places which serve you good coffee. The obvious exceptions being Costa Coffee or Barista. However, these big coffee shops fail to qualify as your daily dose of ‘chai’ or ‘coffee’ since you’re living on a student budget and are perpetually trying to save money.

So, I went on a quest to find a place where I would get a piping hot cup of well-made coffee. To my rescue came, ‘Raju Coffee Waala’ who is interchangeably known as ‘Raju Maggie Waala’. Situated on the Chatra Marg, right outside the Law Faculty, Raju makes the best coffee I’ve had in North Campus. What sets Raju apart from the various other chai/coffee stalls is the fact that his coffee is hand beaten. This is the reason behind his coffee being Frothy, Light and Flavorsome. In addition to this, he sprinkles some coffee powder on the top to give it that extra kick, making his coffee the best in the neighbourhood.

Raju Suri or Raju Bhaiya understands the relevance of marketing and in an attempt to increase his sales, he has devised an addition to his normal cup of coffee i.e. a cup of ‘light coffee’, for those who love having their daily dose of coffee but don’t like it strong.

So, the next time you’re wandering the streets of Kamla Nagar /aimlessly driving by this beautiful university road or walking back from a tiresome day at college. Be sure to stop and pick up a cup of piping hot coffee at Raju Coffee Waala.

Timings: 10:30am – 6:00 pm

Rate: Rs. 15/cup

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on January 10, 2015

Raju ke Himachali Chhole

By Anubhav Sapra

The first week of January has passed. I have eaten only vegetarian food and extreme vegetarian at it – saatvik food – without onion and garlic. Many food joints or restaurants serve saatvik food without onion and garlic. There is Savarna Bhawan in Connaught Place that serves Jain sambar and at the other end there are eateries in Kamla Nagar – Brijwasi Rasgule Wala and Trishul Chaat Bhandar, all dishes cooked without onion and garlic. Last week, I had two classic Delhi dishes – chhole kulche of Raju in Kamla Nagar and chhole bhature of Nand Di Hatti in Sadar Bazar that makes chhole without onion and garlic. They both were delectable in taste.

Raju, a man of innovations, has set up his whole shop in his cycle – rajma, rice, kulche, raita, a pan to heat kulche, dustbin, small pots containing black salt and masalas, green chilli pickles, and boards mentioning the names of the dishes – all on his bicycle. He is from a nearby locality in Kamla Nagar, called Sora Kothi, where he started his career as a salesman in a shop in Kamla Nagar. He got married later and to meet his both ends, he started selling kachoris on his cycle. The kachori business did not do well. But soon he met his guru Kedar from whom he learned the art of cooking a special kind of chhole, in his words Himachali chhole, without oil, onion, and garlic from his guru. The shopkeepers and the salesman, who work in these shops in Kamla Nagar, liked the taste of chhole without onion and garlic garnished with mild spices. Although, chhole is cooked without onion and garlic but he adds fresh onion if anyone asks for it. For last 15 years he has been selling chhole kulche, rajma, and kadi chawal in F Block, Kamla Nagar, opposite Stylish Collection Shop between 12 noon to 3:30 p.m.

It was 3 p.m. when I met him. The rajma rice was over. I could taste the last plate of chhole kulche and leftover gravy of rajma. Both of them were cold, but the taste was amazing. It was made in the Himachali style, where chhole is boiled, the excess water is drained out and then masalas are added to it. He topped the chhole with green pudina chutney, fresh onion and served crisp kulche with butter. I had chhole and kulche without looking for water to cool down the spices. The leftover gravy with a few grains of rajma had great taste. The aroma of the spices was still there. I slurped the gravy with a resolve to visit Raju’s mobile shop again on time to taste rajma and kadi chawal.

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com

Posted on November 26, 2014 November 26, 2014

Trishul Chaat Bhandar

By Anubhav Sapra

Chhole have distinct taste at each chhole kulche joint. At one end of this spectrum, Lotan’s Chhole Kulche at Chhata Shahji in Old Delhi adds red chilies to make it spicy and hot, while at the another end there are a few eateries like Pancham Chhole Kulche, near Filimistan, Rohtak Road that makes a nice mixture of saunth or meethi chutney with khatti chutney in chhole to give it a distinct flavour.

I have never liked onion and tomato in my dona of chhole. I believe that chhole has its own unique taste which is lost once onion and tomato are added to it. In Kamla Nagar, near Chhota Golchakkar, Post Office Waali Gali, a small shop named Trishul Chat Bhandar, sells one of the best matra kachoris and matra kulchas in North Delhi without onion and tomato. The address is 121-D, Kamla Nagar. The shop is open from 12 noon to 4 p.m.

A plate of chhole kulche and matra kachori costs Rs. 25 each. As suggested by the owner of the shop, I first had chhole kulche and then matra kachori. I was intrigued by his suggestion and asked him the reason behind having chhole kulche first and matra kachori next. He candidly replied that khatti-meethi chutney is added in matra kachori, and its taste can be relished only if one has it right after the light masalas of chhole kulche.

I was surprised to know that they have been making this delicious dish for the past seventy-two years and currently, it is the fourth generation, and that they still use the same recipe. It was started by Ramful who used to roam around the lanes of Kamla Nagar to sell chhole kulche on a khomcha. After the death of Ramful, Tula Ram bought a cart and started selling the chhole kulche near Kamla Nagar Post Office. And the third generation, Krishan Lal, who is the current owner of the shop, bought this small shop eight years back, calls it “Almirah” because of its small size. It is indeed a small shop of literally the size of a cupboard and I love the way they have arranged everything from masalas to the stove there. From khomcha to a cart to an almirah, the place and those who made this delicacy have changed, but the recipe is still the same. The home made masalas- which are mixture of dhaniya, jeera, amchur, peeli mirch, long, elaichi dana, and chaat masala are used in making a dona of chhole. A helping of chhole is mixed with masalas, saunth, green chutney, roasted jeera, ginger, and coriander to be served with butter kulche. On other hand, Pawan, the son of Krishan Lal, generously makes a good layer of matra on a crispy kachori and tops it with ginger, coriander, and khatti amchur chutney. The crunchy kachori with soft matra over it with lime juice, khatti-meethi chutney makes it a perfect dish to savour.

All I can say, it is a taste of the divine!

Anubhav Sapra

http://www.delhifoodwalks.com