Banaras, also known as Varanasi, is not only a city of spiritual awakening and cultural richness but also a food lover’s paradise. With its diverse culinary traditions and mouthwatering flavors, Banaras offers a gastronomic experience that is sure to delight your taste buds. From street food delights to traditional sweets, here are five delectable foods in Banaras that you can’t afford to miss.
Kachori Sabzi: Start your culinary journey in Banaras with a plate of piping hot Kachori Sabzi. This popular breakfast dish consists of deep-fried, flaky pastries called kachoris served with a spicy potato curry, tangy chutneys, and a side of pickles. The kachoris are filled with a mixture of lentils, spices, and sometimes even a hint of sweetness. The combination of the crispy kachoris and the flavorful sabzi is a match made in culinary heaven. Head to the bustling streets of Banaras and savor this iconic street food for a perfect start to your day.
Banarasi Paan: No visit to Banaras is complete without trying the famous Banarasi Paan. Paan is a traditional Indian mouth freshener made by wrapping a mixture of betel leaf, areca nut, tobacco (optional), and various sweet and savory fillings. In Banaras, paan-making is considered an art form, and you’ll find numerous street vendors and paan shops offering a wide variety of flavors and combinations. From the classic meetha paan (sweet paan) to the special Banarasi paan filled with gulkand (rose petal preserve) and dry fruits, indulging in this aromatic delicacy is an essential part of the Banaras experience.
Malaiyyo: If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on Malaiyyo, a heavenly dessert that is synonymous with Banaras. Malaiyyo is a delicate and airy milk-based dessert made by whisking milk, sugar, and saffron together until it forms a creamy froth. This velvety treat is then garnished with pistachios, almonds, and a sprinkle of fragrant cardamom. Served in small earthen pots called kulhads, Malaiyyo melts in your mouth and leaves you craving for more. You can find this delectable dessert during the winter months in the narrow lanes of Banaras.
Tamatar Chaat: A visit to Banaras is incomplete without trying the famous Tamatar Chaat. This savory street food is a delightful combination of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. It features crispy puris (deep-fried dough balls) topped with a mixture of mashed boiled potatoes, finely chopped tomatoes, onions, chutneys, yogurt, and a sprinkling of chaat masala. The medley of textures and flavors in Tamatar Chaat creates a burst of deliciousness in every bite. Head to the renowned Kashi Chat Bhandar or other popular chaat stalls to savor this quintessential Banaras delicacy.
Banarasi Lassi: To beat the heat and refresh yourself, indulge in a tall glass of creamy and refreshing Banarasi Lassi. This traditional yogurt-based drink is made by blending thick yogurt with sugar, saffron, cardamom, and a generous dollop of malai (clotted cream). The lassi is then garnished with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and sometimes even a drizzle of rose syrup. Served chilled, Banarasi Lassi is a soothing and revitalizing treat that provides a respite from the city’s scorching summers. Head to the famous Blue Lassi shop or other renowned lassi joints to experience this iconic Banaras beverage.
Banaras is a culinary haven that offers a wide range of flavors and dishes to satisfy every palate. From the savory Kachori Sabzi to the sweet indulgence of Malaiyyo and Banarasi Lassi, the city’s culinary delights will leave you craving for more. So, embark on a gastronomic adventure and savor the delectable foods of Banaras to truly immerse yourself in its vibrant and flavorful culture.
