Delhi winter is something many wait for. The cool breeze, winter sun, comfy sweaters and the most important of all, the variety of good food that the season brings with itself is unparalleled. The food scene in Delhi is much talked about and a cherry on the cake is the winter delicacies that you can find in every nook and corner of the city.
Here are 9 winter foods in Delhi that you must try:
1. Daulat Ki Chaat: A specialty of Delhi, Daulat ki chaat is a soft, cloudy dessert with a melt-in-the-mouth consistency, the perfect end to a meal on a chilly day.
Best places: Chawri Bazaar, Chandi Chowk and Sitaram Bazaar.
2. Nihari: Although Delhiites eat Nihari throughout the year, this warm and spicy meat preparation hits a different spot in winters. The flavourful dish which is made by goat or buffalo meat keeps one warm for longer in the chilly season.
Best places: Kallu Nihari, Haji Shabrati Nihariwale, Karim’s
3. Shakarkandi: Shakarkandi or sweet potato is a popular winter street food snack of Delhi. This sweet potato chaat is moist as well as crunchy and when paired with a blend of spices and fresh lemon juice, it makes for a healthy snack.
Best places: Bishan Swaroop Chaat Corner, Hira Lal Chaat Corner, Chandni Chowk
4. Stuffed Parathas: Parathas are Delhi’s specialty. In fact, winter food in Delhi cannot be discussed without mentioning the famous Parathe Wali Gali which is packed with old shops serving parathas with fillings like potato, cauliflower, cottage cheese, egg as well as meat with a dollop of butter.
Best places: Parathe Wali Gali
5. Momos: Momos haven’t originated in Delhi but no Delhiite can go without having this snack for more than two days. These delightful dumplings are filled with different fillings like cheese, meat, cabbage and carrots and steamed. Hot momos in winters are a delight.
Best places: Majnu Ka Tilla, Greater Kailash – 1, Lajpat Nagar
6. Kali Gajar Ka Halwa: Indian sweets like gulab jamun and rasgulla are loved by many. But have you heard of kali gajar ka halwa? A winter specialty of Delhi, kali gajar ka halwa is a twist on the classic gajar ka halwa. This one if prepared by slowly simmering grated black carrots in milk and ghee, sweetened with sugar and aromatic cardamom.
Best places: Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners, Bikanervala, Jama Masjid, Delhi Haat, Connaught Place
7. Pakoras: A cold winter evening, a breathtaking view and some hot chai and pakoras. Sounds like a plan, right? Well, pakoras or fritters are made in every household in Delhi during winters. If you step out, Delhi has numerous varieties of pakoras like egg pakora, cheese pakora, paneer pakora and the classic vegetable pakoras.
Best places: Khandani Pakodewala, Pakode ki Dukan, Paranjeet Fish Pakodewala
8. Masala Chai: Nothing can bring warmth in the body than a kadak cup of masala chai. One of the most sought after winter drinks in Delhi, chai is not just a drink but a survival juice to combat the chilly winds.
Best places: Wagh Bakri Tea Lounge, Jugmug Thela, Mister Chai
9. Makke di Roti and Sarson ka Saag: Makke di Roti and Sarson ka Saag is a quintessential Punjabi dish that has found its place in the hearts of all Delhiites. This wholesome meal consists of rotis made with maize flour. When paired with the piping hot sarson da saag, this meal can transport you to heaven.
Best places: Punjab Grill, Kake Da Hotel, Dhaba by Claridges
So, when are you stepping out to relish all the amazing winter food that Delhi has to offer?