The Iconic Poha
Poha is arguably the most popular breakfast dish in Indore, and for good reason. This light and fluffy flattened rice dish is tempered with mustard seeds,
curry leaves, onions, and often, green chilies. The best poha in Indore is served with a generous helping of sev (crispy chickpea flour noodles), onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon. The textures and flavors are a delightful mix of soft, crunchy, spicy, and tangy, making it the perfect way to start your day. Many street vendors offer variations, some including a dash of sweet chutney or a side of jalebi for a complete Indore experience.
Garadu's Temptation
Garadu is a seasonal delicacy, typically enjoyed during the winter months. This deep-fried, spiced yam is a crispy and flavorful treat, often served hot with a sprinkle of chat masala and a squeeze of lime. The yam is cut into cubes, marinated in a blend of spices, and then deep-fried until golden brown. The contrast of the crispy exterior and the soft interior, combined with the zesty seasonings, makes garadu a truly addictive snack. You'll find numerous street-side stalls dedicated solely to this delicacy, especially in the Sarafa Bazaar area.
Kachori Delights
Indore's kachoris are a testament to the city's love for savory snacks. These deep-fried, round pastries are filled with a flavorful mixture of lentils, spices, and sometimes potatoes. The kachoris are usually served with a variety of chutneys, including tamarind, mint, and coriander, adding a sweet, tangy, and refreshing element. You can find different varieties of kachoris, some spicy and some mild, but each one is a perfect example of Indore's expertise in creating delicious street food. The crispy shell and flavorful filling are a combination that's hard to resist.
Samosa's Allure
No street food tour is complete without samosas. Indore's samosas are a beloved snack, often enjoyed with hot tea or coffee. These triangular pastries are filled with a spiced potato and pea mixture, deep-fried to a golden crisp. They are served with chutneys, with mint and tamarind often being the preferred options. The samosas in Indore are known for their flaky crust and flavorful filling. The perfect samosa is hot, crispy, and bursting with the flavors of carefully selected spices.
Jalebi’s Sweetness
Jalebi is a classic Indian sweet, and Indore offers some of the best. These deep-fried, pretzel-shaped treats are soaked in sugar syrup, resulting in a crispy exterior and a sweet, syrupy interior. Jalebis are often served hot, and the contrast between the warm, sweet syrup and the crispy batter is truly irresistible. Many people in Indore enjoy jalebi with poha, a unique combination that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The aroma of freshly made jalebis often fills the air in the streets of Indore.
Bhutta's Charm
During the monsoon and winter seasons, roasted corn on the cob, or bhutta, is a popular street food. The corn is roasted over an open flame and then rubbed with lime juice, salt, and chili powder. The smoky flavor of the roasted corn, combined with the zesty spices, makes it a simple yet satisfying snack. It's a common sight to see vendors roasting corn on the streets of Indore, and the aroma alone is enough to tempt passersby. This is a light, easy-to-eat option perfect for an evening snack.
Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi, made from tapioca pearls, is a light and nutritious dish, often eaten during fasting periods. The tapioca pearls are soaked, cooked with potatoes, peanuts, and spices, and then garnished with coriander and lemon juice. The dish has a soft texture, with the peanuts adding a satisfying crunch. It's a relatively mild-flavored dish, with the spices adding subtle warmth. It's a common breakfast or snack option, offering a filling yet light meal, distinct in its taste and textures.
