Varanasi, known for its rich cultural heritage, also has a diverse culinary scene that offers a variety of delicious and famous foods. Here are some of the popular dishes that you must try when in Varanasi:
Kachori Sabzi
Kachori Sabzi is a popular breakfast dish in Varanasi. It consists of deep-fried, crispy dough balls (kachoris) filled with a spiced lentil or potato mixture, served with a side of tangy and spicy vegetable curry (sabzi). It is a must-try dish for breakfast or brunch in Varanasi.
Paan
Paan is a popular digestive after-meal treat in Varanasi and other parts of India. It consists of betel leaves filled with a mixture of areca nuts, spices, and sweeteners. Paan comes in various flavors and is often chewed after a meal for its digestive properties.
Lassi
Lassi is a popular yogurt-based drink that is a refreshing and delicious treat, especially during the hot summer months in Varanasi. It is made by blending yogurt with water, sugar, and sometimes fruit, resulting in a creamy and frothy drink that is often garnished with chopped nuts.
Malaiyyo
Malaiyyo, also known as Nimish, is a traditional dessert unique to Varanasi. It is a frothy and creamy dessert made from milk foam that is infused with saffron, cardamom, and sometimes garnished with nuts. Malaiyyo is a seasonal dessert that is available during the winter months and is a must-try for its unique texture and flavor.
Chaat
Chaat is a popular street food in Varanasi as well as in many parts of India. It is a savory and tangy snack made with a combination of crispy puris (fried dough balls), spicy potato mixture, tangy chutneys, yogurt, and various toppings like sev (crunchy fried noodles), pomegranate seeds, and cilantro. Varanasi is known for its unique twist on chaat, and you can find a variety of chaat stalls offering different types of chaat, such as Aloo Tikki Chaat, Papdi Chaat, and Dahi Vada, among others.
Thandai
Thandai is a popular cold beverage often associated with the festival of Holi in Varanasi and other parts of Northern India. It is a creamy and aromatic drink made with a mixture of milk, nuts, spices, and sweeteners. Thandai is often garnished with rose petals and is known for its refreshing taste.
Baati Chokha
Baati Chokha is a traditional dish from the state of Bihar, but it is also popular in Varanasi and other parts of Uttar Pradesh. It consists of roasted wheat flour balls (baati) served with a spiced vegetable mash (chokha) made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and spices. Baati Chokha is a hearty and flavorful dish that is often enjoyed during the winter months.
Final Thoughts
The city has a rich culinary heritage, and exploring the local street food stalls and traditional restaurants is a must to truly experience the unique flavors and tastes of Varanasi.