Street Food of Varanasi - Exploring the flavours of the ghat

Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is not only a spiritual centre but also a paradise for food lovers. The vibrant streets of this ancient city are lined with stalls serving some of the best street food in Varanasi, capturing the rich flavours and heritage of the region. From spicy chaats to indulgent sweets, Banaras Street food is an experience in itself, loved by locals and visitors alike. Each bite offers a taste of tradition, and the variety caters to every palate. Exploring the famous street food in Varanasi is a journey through the heart of its vibrant culture and history. 

Here are the top 10 must-try street foods in Varanasi that should not be missed:

1. Kachori Sabzi
2. Choora Matar
3. Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe
4. Baati Chokha
5. Tamatar Chaat
6. Chena Dahi Vada
7. Malaiyyo
8. Thandai
9. Rabri Jalebi
10. Banarasi Paan
     

• Kachori Sabzi

Kachori Sabzi is a beloved street food in Varanasi, often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or snack throughout the day. This classic Banarasi dish consists of crispy, deep-fried kachoris—flaky, spiced flour pastries—stuffed with lentils or spices, served alongside a spicy, tangy potato curry (sabzi). The combination is bursting with flavours, from the crispiness of the kachori to the rich, aromatic spices of the sabzi. Topped with fresh coriander and sometimes a splash of tamarind chutney, Kachori Sabzi truly embodies the essence of Banaras Street food and is a must-try for anyone visiting Varanasi.

Best Served with: Kachori Sabzi is best enjoyed with a side of fresh, tangy tamarind chutney and a handful of pickled green chilies for an extra kick. For a complete experience, pair it with a glass of refreshing lassi or masala chai to balance the spices. This combination makes for a perfect Varanasi-style breakfast that’s both flavourful and satisfying. 

• Choora Matar

Choora Matar is a unique and popular street food in Varanasi, especially enjoyed during the winter months. This dish consists of flattened rice (poha) cooked with green peas (matar), and flavoured with spices, ginger, and a hint of sweetness, making it a light yet flavourful snack. Unlike traditional poha from other regions, Banarasi Choora Matar has a distinctive touch, often enriched with ghee and garnished with fresh coriander, lemon juice, and sometimes even cashews or raisins. The mild sweetness and aroma of spices make it a beloved dish among locals and a must-try for anyone exploring Banaras Street food.

Best Served with: Choora Matar is best enjoyed with a sprinkle of fresh coriander, a squeeze of lemon for a bit of tang, and a side of spicy green chili to add a contrasting heat. Many locals also enjoy pairing it with a warm cup of masala chai, which complements the subtle sweetness and richness of the dish. This combination makes for a perfect, comforting winter snack on the bustling streets of Varanasi. 

• Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe

Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe, also known as Meethe Golgappe, are a delightful variation of the traditional golgappa (pani puri) found in Varanasi. These crispy, hollow puris are filled with a spicy mixture of boiled potatoes, topped with tangy chutneys, and generously drizzled with sweetened curd. The combination of flavours—spicy, tangy, and sweet—creates a burst of taste in every bite, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Best Served with: Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe are best enjoyed with an extra sprinkle of chaat masala, a few pomegranate seeds for a pop of colour and sweetness, and a dash of sev for extra crunch. Pairing them with a chilled glass of sweet lassi or a tangy jaljeera drink enhances the experience by balancing the spicy and tangy flavours of the gol gappe.

4. Baati Chokha

Baati Chokha is a cherished and famous street food in Varanasi, celebrated for its authentic, rustic flavours and hearty appeal. Originally hailing from Bihar, Baati Chokha has become a street food staple in Varanasi, drawing locals and tourists alike. Baati are round dough balls made of wheat flour, stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and spices, then roasted to a smoky, golden crisp. Chokha, on the other hand, is a flavourful mash of roasted vegetables like brinjal (eggplant), tomatoes, and potatoes, seasoned with mustard oil and spices, adding a distinct depth of flavour.

Best Served with: Baati Chokha is ideally enjoyed with a side of fresh coriander chutney and pickles, adding an extra layer of tanginess and spice. A dollop of desi ghee (clarified butter) over the baati enhances its rich flavour and aroma, making the experience even more indulgent. To complete the meal, pair it with a cooling glass of buttermilk or a traditional sweet lassi for a delightful contrast to the robust flavours of the dish.

• Tamatar Chaat

Tamatar Chaat is a unique and iconic Banaras Street food that stands out for its bold flavours and distinct preparation. Unlike typical chaats, this dish uses tomatoes as the main ingredient, mashed and cooked with a blend of spices, ginger, green chilies, and a hint of jaggery for sweetness. The mixture is then topped with crispy namkeen, fresh coriander, and sometimes even paneer cubes, creating a medley of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavours in each bite.

Best Served with: Tamatar Chaat is best enjoyed with a side of crispy, thin papdis (fried dough wafers) that add a delightful crunch to each spoonful. A sprinkling of fresh coriander, a squeeze of lemon for extra tang, and a garnish of sev make it even more flavourful. Pairing it with a chilled glass of jaljeera or spiced buttermilk enhances the experience, balancing the chaat’s spicy and tangy notes. 

• Chena Dahi Vada

Chena Dahi Vada is a refreshing and indulgent street food in Varanasi. Unlike the traditional dahi vada made with lentils, Chena Dahi Vada is prepared using soft, fresh chena (a type of cottage cheese), giving it a lighter, melt-in-the-mouth texture. The chena vadas are soaked in creamy, chilled yogurt and drizzled with sweet tamarind chutney and a hint of spicy green chutney, creating a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavours.

Best Served with: Chena Dahi Vada is best enjoyed with a sprinkle of black salt and roasted cumin powder to enhance its flavour, along with a dash of finely chopped coriander for freshness. A few pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of extra tamarind chutney can add a burst of sweetness. Pairing it with a chilled rose-flavoured lassi or a mild, spiced buttermilk balances the richness of the yogurt, making this treat even more refreshing and satisfying. 

• Malaiyyo

Malaiyyo is a winter delicacy and one of the most famous street foods in Varanasi, cherished for its light, airy texture and subtle sweetness. This seasonal treat, available only in the cooler months, is made by slowly churning milk froth overnight and infusing it with saffron, cardamom, and sometimes a hint of rose. The result is an ethereal, cloud-like dessert topped with a sprinkle of pistachios, almonds, and a touch of khoya (thickened milk), giving it a rich yet delicate flavour. Served in traditional clay cups (kulhads) that enhance its earthy taste, Malaiyyo melts in the mouth, leaving a refreshing, creamy aftertaste. This unique dessert is a must-try for anyone visiting Varanasi.

Best Served with: Malaiyyo is best enjoyed as it is, but for an extra indulgent experience, you can pair it with a warm cup of masala chai to complement its light, creamy texture. A sprinkle of additional chopped nuts, like pistachios or almonds, enhances its richness, while a pinch of saffron threads on top adds a fragrant note. Served in a traditional clay cup (kulhad), this combination allows you to fully Savor the delicate flavours and cultural essence of this beloved Varanasi treat. 

• Thandai

Thandai is a refreshing and iconic drink in Varanasi, especially popular during festivals like Holi and Shivratri. Known for its cooling and energizing properties, Thandai is made from a blend of milk, almonds, cashews, melon seeds, fennel, rose petals, and a hint of aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron. This rich concoction is often sweetened and topped with crushed pistachios, creating a creamy and fragrant drink that’s both delicious and rejuvenating.

In Banaras, Thandai has a special cultural significance and is commonly available at street vendors throughout the city. It’s often served with a touch of bhang, if desired (a cannabis-infused paste) during certain festivals, adding to its popularity among locals and visitors. Served chilled, Thandai provides a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a must-try street beverage when exploring the culinary wonders of Varanasi.

Best Served with: Thandai is wonderfully complemented by a plate of savoury snacks like kachoris or samosas, balancing its creamy sweetness with a bit of spice. For an added festive touch, pair Thandai with a few saffron strands or crushed rose petals on top, enhancing its aroma and richness. 

• Rabri Jalebi

Rabri Jalebi is a deliciously indulgent street food combination in Varanasi, cherished for its unique blend of textures and flavours. Crispy, syrup-soaked jalebis are paired with a generous layer of cool, creamy rabri—thickened milk infused with cardamom and garnished with nuts. This duo offers a perfect harmony of crunch and creaminess, creating a satisfying treat that is both sweet and rich. Often enjoyed as a dessert or a standalone snack, Rabri Jalebi is a must-try for anyone exploring the best street food in Varanasi, capturing the city’s love for traditional, flavourful sweets.

Best Served with: Rabri Jalebi is best enjoyed with a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or almonds on top for an added crunch and flavour. For a complete experience, pair it with a cup of hot masala chai or a glass of cold, refreshing sweet lassi. The warmth of the jalebi balanced with the cool rabri and the aromatic tea or lassi enhances the flavours, making it an irresistible treat for any time of day. 

• Banarasi Paan

Banarasi Paan is a famous cultural and culinary symbol of Varanasi, known for its unique blend of flavours and rich tradition. This iconic street food in Banaras is made by wrapping a betel leaf around a mixture of ingredients, including areca nut, slaked lime, sweet rose jam (gulkand), cardamom, and various other spices. Banarasi Paan comes in several varieties, including meetha (sweet) and saada (plain), each offering a distinctive taste that has delighted locals and travellers for generations.

Widely enjoyed after meals or as a standalone treat, Banarasi Paan is appreciated for its refreshing flavour and digestive benefits. It embodies the essence of Banaras Street food culture, where each paan stall has its secret blend of ingredients.

Best Served with: Banarasi Paan is best enjoyed after a hearty meal as a refreshing digestive. Pair it with a glass of sweet lassi or a warm cup of masala chai to enhance its flavours and balance its rich, aromatic taste. For a truly traditional experience, Savor it slowly to enjoy the burst of spices and sweetness, allowing each layer of flavour to unfold. This combination makes for a perfect, culturally immersive ending to any Banaras Street food adventure.

Exploring the famous street food in Varanasi is a flavourful journey through the heart of its culture and heritage. The city’s vibrant offerings blend traditional spices, textures, and culinary techniques, making each dish a memorable experience. From hearty breakfasts to refreshing drinks and decadent desserts, the street food in Varanasi captures the unique spirit of this ancient city, inviting food lovers to indulge in bold flavours and unique preparations. The famous street food places in Varanasi offer a taste of local life and traditions. Whether wandering the ghats or exploring lively streets, the tantalizing aromas and tastes are an unforgettable part of the experience, connecting visitors to the soul of Banaras.