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Street Foods of Varanasi

 

Introduction:

Varanasi is a cultural city where people come to take the blessings of lord Shiva and this city is famous for its ghats and temples. People from all walks of life come to explore this divine city, but if you are planning to visit this miraculous city you should taste the flavour of this city. in this blog we will focus on the Varanasi (Benaras) Street Foods that You Shouldn't Miss:

 

Street Foods of Varanasi:

1. Lassi

Varanasi is a famous place to taste the flavour of Lassi. Lassi is a traditional South Asian beverage renowned for its refreshing and creamy taste. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Lassi is typically made by blending yogurt with water and spices, creating a smooth, chilled drink. There are various variations, including sweet lassi, flavoured with sugar and fruits, and salty lassi, seasoned with spices like cumin. Often served alongside spicy meals, Lassi helps soothe the palate and aids digestion due to the probiotics in yogurt. Banarasi Lassi is served in many flavours like fruit lassi, dry fruit lassi etc. if you are coming to explore Kashi you should visit two shops of Banaras.

1.Blue Lassi Shop situated in Manikarnika Gali, Godowalia Varanasi

2.Pahalwan lassi situated in Lanka near Sant ravidas Gate Varanasi

 

2. Rabdi Jalebi

Rabdi is a traditional Indian dessert known for its rich and creamy texture. It is made by boiling milk and reducing it to a thick consistency, resulting in a luscious, sweetened product. The process involves continuous stirring to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan, creating a velvety texture. Often flavoured with cardamom, saffron, or rose water, Rabdi offers a delightful blend of aromatic spices. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to various Indian sweets like jalebi or malpua. Rabdi encapsulates the essence of Indian culinary heritage, providing a decadent treat for dessert enthusiasts. In Varanasi Jalebi is served with rabdi that enhances the taste of Rabdi.

 

3. Kachori sabji

Kachori Sabji is a delectable Indian dish that combines crispy kachoris with a flavourful vegetable curry. Kachoris are deep-fried, unleavened bread stuffed with a spicy mixture of lentils, spices, and sometimes potatoes. The accompanying sabji, or vegetable curry, is a rich medley of vegetables cooked in a fragrant blend of spices, creating a Savory and satisfying dish. The crispy texture of the kachoris complements the softness of the sabji, providing a delightful contrast. This popular North Indian dish is often enjoyed as a breakfast item or a snack, showcasing the diverse and delicious Flavors of Indian cuisine.

 

4. Malaiyyo

Malaiyo, also known as "Daulat ki Chaat," is a delicate and luscious Indian dessert hailing from the streets of Old Delhi. This ethereal confection is crafted during winter months, using milk froth, saffron, and sugar. The process involves condensing milk overnight, and the resultant froth is flavoured with cardamom and saffron, then garnished with pistachios and almonds. Malaiyo's cloud-like texture melts in the mouth, delivering a sublime blend of sweet and aromatic notes. Served in small earthen bowls, it epitomizes the artistry of Indian culinary traditions, offering a sensory experience that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the subcontinent.

 

5. Thandai

Featuring a blend of spices, milk, and nuts including rose petals, almonds, fennel seeds, cardamom, and poppy seeds, saffron-infused Thandai is an aromatic beverage cherished for its cooling qualities. This traditional Indian drink is the perfect addition to any festive occasion such as Maha Shivaratri or Holi and promises a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. Thandai holds cultural significance, often associated with celebrations and rituals. The rich, creamy texture and the medley of flavours make it a delightful drink, cherished not only for its taste but also for its symbolic connection to joyous festivities in the diverse tapestry of Indian culture.

 

6. Baati Chokha

With its simple, rustic flavours, Bati Chokha is a much-loved dish in North India, particularly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The dish is made up of mashed eggplants and tomatoes, roasted to perfection and seasoned with a mix of garlic, mustard oil, and spices. Usually served with round, baked wheat flour balls known as Bati, this dish is a testament to the beauty of rural Indian cuisine. The pungent, smoky fragrance of roasted vegetables and the bold flavour of mustard oil give it a pleasant and distinctive character. The best way to enjoy this dish is with a dollop of ghee (clarified butter) and a side of yogurt or a spicy pickle.

 

7. Benarasi Paan

Crafted with expertise, Banarasi Paan is a traditional and iconic Indian chewable delight, hailing from the city of Varanasi. Its unique flavour comes from a combination of betel leaves, areca nuts, slaked lime, and various flavourful ingredients including fennel seeds and sweetened rose petals. The paan is meticulously folded into a triangular shape, often garnished with edible silver foil, and held in high regard for its digestive properties. Banarasi Paan stands as a cultural symbol of hospitality and celebration in Indian gatherings, offering an experiential journey into the rich tapestry of Indian culinary heritage beyond being mouth freshener.

Street foods of Varanasi

Conclusion:

Varanasi's food experience unveils more than just a culinary delight, as it also reveals a glimpse into the city's cultural fabric. Touring street-side dealers to ancient food joints combines the culinary expedition with the spiritual and historic essence of the city. Indulging in Varanasi's food embraces diversity in flavours, customs, and the city's cordial ambiance.


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Vishal Kumar
Vishal Kumar
Dec 15, 2023

Very informative thanks for sharing it.

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