Aloo Tikki
Aloo Tikki, a beloved street food in Amritsar, is a crispy potato patty. The preparation involves boiling potatoes, mashing them, and mixing them with
spices. These patties are then shallow-fried until golden brown. Served with a variety of chutneys, including tamarind, mint, and yogurt, Aloo Tikki offers a burst of flavors and textures. The combination of the crunchy exterior and soft interior makes it a satisfying snack, perfect for a cold winter evening. It’s a popular choice for both locals and tourists, providing warmth and comfort.
Chole Bhature
Chole Bhature is another Amritsar specialty, a hearty dish comprising spicy chickpea curry (chole) and fluffy, deep-fried bread (bhature). The chole is simmered with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a rich and flavorful gravy. Bhature, made from a dough of refined flour, is fried until it puffs up. This combination is a filling meal, often garnished with onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon. Chole Bhature is a staple street food, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It is a must-try for anyone visiting Amritsar during winter.
Golgappe
Golgappe, known as Pani Puri in some regions, is a quintessential street snack. These small, crispy, hollow puri shells are filled with a mixture of flavored water (pani), tamarind chutney, potato, and chickpeas. The spicy and tangy flavors burst in the mouth, offering a refreshing and stimulating experience. During winter, the warm, spiced water adds a comforting touch. Golgappe are widely available and eaten quickly, making them a perfect on-the-go treat. It provides a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and spicy tastes.
Kulcha Chole
Kulcha Chole, a variation of the classic Chole, replaces the bhature with Amritsari kulcha, a leavened flatbread baked in a tandoor. The kulcha has a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, often brushed with butter. Served with a generous helping of spicy chole, this combination is a filling and flavorful meal. The contrast between the crispy kulcha and the savory chole makes it a favorite among locals. The winter season enhances the flavors, making it a warming and comforting meal. It is a popular street food that embodies Amritsar's culinary richness.
Jalebi
Jalebi, a sweet treat, is a popular dessert in Amritsar, especially during winter. This deep-fried, spiral-shaped sweet is made from fermented batter, soaked in sugar syrup, resulting in a crispy and syrupy delight. The warm jalebis are best enjoyed fresh from the frying pan. The sweetness provides a comforting warmth, making it a perfect winter dessert. Jalebi is widely available and enjoyed by people of all ages. This sweet treat offers an indulgent end to any meal or a satisfying snack on its own.
Lassi
Lassi, a traditional yogurt-based drink, is a refreshing and cooling beverage that complements the rich and spicy street food. In Amritsar, lassi is often thick, creamy, and served in tall glasses. The drink can be sweet or salty, with variations like mango lassi also available. During winter, the lassi provides a cooling balance to the warm and spicy foods. Lassi is a popular choice for both locals and tourists, offering a satisfying and revitalizing experience. It is a staple drink that adds to Amritsar's vibrant food scene.
Malpua
Malpua, a pancake-like dessert, is a sweet treat often enjoyed during festive occasions. In Amritsar, malpuas are prepared by deep-frying batter made from flour, milk, and sugar. They are then soaked in sugar syrup, adding to their sweetness and softness. Often served with a garnish of dry fruits, the dish provides a rich and satisfying taste. The warm, sweet flavors make malpua a great winter dessert. Malpua, available in various street food stalls, offers a delightful and comforting culinary experience.
Samosa
Samosa, a deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes lentils, is a favorite street snack in Amritsar. These triangular snacks are served hot and crispy, often accompanied by tamarind or mint chutney. During winter, the warm samosas provide a comforting bite. The spicy filling and crispy exterior make them a popular choice. Samosas are readily available at various street food vendors, offering a convenient and satisfying snack. This classic snack perfectly represents the diverse flavors of Amritsar's street food culture.
Patties
Amritsar's street food scene includes savory patties, usually filled with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables or spiced minced meat. These patties are often deep-fried until golden brown, creating a crispy exterior. Served hot, with chutney or sauces, these provide a satisfying snack. During the winter, the warm patties add a comforting touch. They are a popular choice for quick bites and are easily accessible from various street food stalls. These patties offer a diverse range of flavors and textures.
