Chandni chowk : The hub of street food

Most of the shops in Chandini Chowk date from the previous century, and some, like the Ghantewala Halwai, are even older. Almost all the shops have been handed down from father to son and many of these businesses are now being managed by the fourth or fifth generation.Chandini Chowk’s merchants take fierce pride in their trade and wares, hence quality is of the essence. Some of them would even go to the pains of grinding their own spices rather than trusting shop-bought Masalas (mixtures of various spices). Most of the shops have their own (very) secret recipes (guarded like family heirlooms, no less). This makes it very interesting for the gourmet as no two places providing the same fare will have preparations that taste just the same.

Kulfi : The Indian Ice cream

If you haven’t tried the typical Delhi kulfi, you haven’t lived. It’s a solid chunk of thickened milk, topped with saffron, cardamom and nuts, which is eaten with Falooda (rice noodles). When the mixture of the noodle, nuts and frozen milk explodes in your mouth, it’s really something else. Roshan di kulfi on Ajmal Khan Road in Karol Bagh is an excellent place for beginners.

Street Food has its own charm

Street food is the grand old tradition in Delhi from the times when Kkhomchewallahs (street vendors) used to come to one’s doorstep to sell all kinds of snacks, chaats, ice creams, sweets and so on. The munchies you can buy off the streets vary with the season. It’s fresh roasted Bhuttes (corn) in the rains, peanuts and popcorn in winter and various roasted gram in summer. You can also buy assorted Pakores (patties), patties, sandwiches and even the local version of a burger off these vendors.