Exploring the Top 10 Street Foods in Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is a fascinating blend of spirituality, history, and rich culinary traditions. While the city’s ghats and temples attract millions of visitors annually, its street food scene is equally captivating, offering an array of flavors that reflect its vibrant culture. Here’s a deep dive into the top 10 street foods you must try when visiting Varanasi, ensuring that your culinary journey is as memorable as your spiritual exploration.

1. Kachori Sabzi

Kachori sabzi is a quintessential breakfast dish in Varanasi. It features crispy, golden-brown kachoris—deep-fried pastries filled with a spicy mixture of lentils and spices (dal ki pithi). These kachoris are paired with sabzi, a flavorful curry made from boiled potatoes, seasoned with black pepper, cloves, and a blend of spices. The combination of the crunchy kachoris and the hearty, spicy sabzi creates a delectable contrast that is both satisfying and delightful.

Why You Should Try It: Kachori sabzi is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that reflects the daily lives of Varanasi’s residents. Early morning street food joints are bustling with locals, from office workers to students, all savoring this comforting dish. The aromatic spices and the crispy texture of the kachoris make it an irresistible breakfast option that you shouldn’t miss.

Best Places to Try:

• The Ram Bhandar, Thatheri Bazar: Known for its authentic preparation and bustling atmosphere.
• Chachi Kachori Shop, Saket Nagar Colony, Lanka: A local favorite offering fresh and flavorful kachoris.

2. Aloo Kachori

Aloo kachori is a variation of the traditional kachori, filled with a spicy potato mixture. Unlike the lentil-stuffed kachoris, these are filled with a mix of mashed potatoes and spices. They are typically enjoyed with a variety of chutneys—sweet tamarind and spicy coriander—that enhance the flavor of the kachoris. This snack is a versatile option, perfect for a quick bite or a satisfying mid-day meal.

Why You Should Try It: Aloo kachoris offer a different taste experience compared to their lentil-filled counterparts. The spicy potato filling is rich and flavorful, and the addition of chutneys adds layers of sweetness and tanginess. They are available throughout the day, making them a convenient choice for tourists exploring the city.

Best Places to Try:

• The Ram Bhandar, Thatheri Bazar: For a taste of traditional aloo kachoris in a lively setting.
• Chachi Kachori Shop, Saket Nagar Colony, Lanka: A reliable spot for fresh and delicious kachoris.

3. Baati Chokha

Baati chokha, also known as litti chokha, is a traditional dish that reflects the culinary heritage of Varanasi. Baatis are round, wheat flour balls stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and cooked over charcoal, giving them a smoky flavor. They are served with chokha, a spicy and tangy mix of roasted eggplants, tomatoes, and boiled potatoes, often seasoned with ginger, chillies, and various spices.

Why You Should Try It: Baati chokha is a celebration of rustic flavors. The smoky aroma of the baatis combined with the robust flavors of the chokha makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a great way to experience the traditional cooking methods of the region and enjoy a dish that has been loved by generations.

Best Places to Try:

• Baati Chokha Restaurant, Teliyabag: Known for its authentic preparation and traditional taste.
• Polti Baati Chokha Restaurant, Assi Ghat: A popular spot for both locals and tourists.

4. Chena Dahi Vada

Chena dahi vada is a unique variation of the classic dahi vada, made from a mixture of mashed potatoes and fresh cottage cheese (chena). The mixture is shaped into round vadas, deep-fried until crispy, and then topped with sweet curd, tamarind chutney, coriander chutney, and a sprinkle of spices. The result is a dish that is both savory and sweet, with a creamy texture and a burst of flavors.

Why You Should Try It: This dish offers a delightful twist on the traditional dahi vada. The use of chena gives it a rich, creamy texture, while the combination of chutneys and spices creates a complex flavor profile. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Best Places to Try:

• Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Godowlia Road: Renowned for its flavorful and well-prepared chena dahi vada.
• Deena Chaat Bhandar, Rampura Luxa Road: A must-visit for street food enthusiasts.

5. Choora Matar

Choora matar is a popular winter snack made from flattened rice (choora), milk, ghee, fresh peas, and spices. It is often garnished with chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice, adding a fresh and tangy flavor. This dish is a variation of the well-known poha and is especially enjoyed in the chilly winter months.

Why You Should Try It: Choora matar is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a snack or a light meal. Its combination of spices, ghee, and fresh peas makes it a wholesome and satisfying option, particularly during the cooler months.

Best Places to Try:

• Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Godowlia Road: Known for its authentic and flavorful choora matar.
• Deena Chaat Bhandar, Rampura Luxa Road: A great spot to enjoy this seasonal specialty.

6. Laaiya Channa

Laaiya channa is a street food item similar to bhel puri but made with boiled chickpeas (channa) instead of puffed rice. The chickpeas are mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chillies, peanuts, lemon juice, and a variety of spices, creating a savory and tangy snack that’s both crunchy and refreshing.

Why You Should Try It: Laaiya channa is a flavorful and satisfying snack that offers a unique twist on traditional chaat. The combination of chickpeas with fresh vegetables and spices provides a healthy yet delicious option for snack lovers.

Best Places to Try:

• Deena Chaat Bhandar, Rampura Luxa Road: A popular spot for its delicious and well-seasoned laaiya channa.

7. Dahi Chutney Golgappe

Dahi chutney golgappe are crispy, hollow puris filled with a spicy mixture of mashed potatoes and chickpeas, then topped with sweet and tangy curd, tamarind chutney, coriander chutney, pomegranate seeds, and sev. This dish combines a range of textures and flavors, from the crispiness of the puris to the creaminess of the curd.

Why You Should Try It: The combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors in dahi chutney golgappe makes it a delightful treat. The contrast between the crispy puris and the creamy curd, along with the various chutneys, creates a complex and enjoyable eating experience.

Best Places to Try:

• Deena Chaat Bhandar, Rampura Luxa Road: Known for its well-balanced and flavorful golgappe.
• Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Godowlia Road: A great spot to enjoy this popular street food.

8. Tamatar Chaat

Tamatar chaat is a spicy and tangy dish made from boiled and mashed potatoes and tomatoes, mixed with green chillies, onions, and coriander leaves. It’s seasoned with red chili powder, black pepper, garam masala, and other spices, and is often served in biodegradable leaf bowls. The dish offers a robust flavor that’s both spicy and tangy.

Why You Should Try It: Tamatar chaat is a must-try for chaat lovers. The combination of spices and the use of fresh ingredients make it a flavorful and satisfying snack. The biodegradable leaf bowls also add an authentic touch to the experience.

Best Places to Try:

• Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Godowlia Road: Famous for its spicy and tangy tamatar chaat.
• Street food stalls on Lahurabir Road: Great for an authentic and local experience.

9. Malaiyyo

Malaiyyo is a seasonal dessert made from milk foam or froth, flavored with cardamom, saffron, and sugar. The preparation involves boiling milk in an iron wok and then leaving it outside overnight to develop a frothy texture. The froth is then churned with additional flavorings and garnished with chopped nuts. This dessert is typically served in earthen cups (kulhads) and is only available during the winter months.

Why You Should Try It: Malaiyyo offers a unique taste experience with its light, frothy texture and delicate flavorings. It’s a rare treat that showcases traditional techniques and ingredients, making it a special part of Varanasi’s culinary landscape.

Best Places to Try:

• Thatheri Bazar, Old Banaras: Known for its authentic and traditional malaiyyo.
• Kachori Wali Gali, Chowk: A popular location for this seasonal delicacy.

10. Rabri Jalebi

Rabri jalebi is a delectable combination of two sweet treats—rabri, a condensed milk dessert flavored with saffron and cardamom, and jalebi, a deep-fried sweet soaked in sugar syrup. The rabri is served alongside the crispy, syrup-soaked jalebis, creating a rich and indulgent dessert experience.

Why You Should Try It: The pairing of rabri and jalebi offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The creamy, sweet rabri complements the crispy, syrupy jalebis perfectly, making it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Best Places to Try:

• Om Shree Ram Bhandar, Nadesar: Known for its delicious rabri jalebi combination.
• Sweet shops in Chowk and Godowlia: Various shops offer their own take on this classic dessert.

Conclusion

Varanasi’s street food scene is a reflection of its rich cultural and culinary heritage. From spicy snacks to sweet treats, each dish offers a unique flavor that captures the essence of the city. Exploring these street foods will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide a deeper connection to the local culture. Whether you’re enjoying a breakfast of kachori sabzi or indulging in the sweetness of rabri jalebi, Varanasi’s street food is an integral part of the city’s vibrant tapestry. So, make sure to explore these culinary delights on your next visit to Varanasi, and immerse yourself in the rich flavors and traditions of this historic city.