Delhi’s favourite season is back, and so are the winter-special delicacies that might not be available during the summers. From having chai-pakoda on a chilled evening at home to brunching at your favourite restaurant while basking in the sun. Delhi’s winter is all about having good food! Here’s a list of must-have dishes that you can’t miss during the winters in Delhi.
P.S: You can order these online on Zomato and Swiggy. However, if you still wish to eat out then don’t forget to wear a mask and maintain social distance.
Sarso ka Saag and Makki ki Roti
A classic Punjabi dish that makes everyone drool. The Saag is a mixture of Mustard leaves, Spinach and Bathua cooked in various Indian spices. Have this with Makki ki Roti (Corn Pone), a spoon full of white butter and a piece of jaggery.
Where: Punjab Grills, Garam Dharam and Gulshan Dhaba (Murthal)
Jalebi with Rabri
Jalebi is a popular dessert that takes its inspiration from the Middle East. Weddings and food fests are incomplete without them! I remember having Jalebi at every wedding I ever attended. So don’t miss out on these crisp sugary spiral topped with some chilled Rabri.
Where: Bikanervala
Parathas
The stuffed Indian flatbread is one of the most popular breakfast dishes in the northern belt. Be it “maa ke hath ka” (mom-made) or from a Dhaba Parathas, are a must-have in winters. What makes it more special during this season is the variety of vegetables available as stuffing, from radish to carrots to peas.
Where: Paranthe wali Gali (Chandni Chowk), Moolchand Parathewala (opposite Moolchand Metro Station) and Gulshan Dhaba (Murthal)
Ram Ladoo
Moong Dal Vadi popularly known as Ram Ladoo is a winter favourite street snack, served with tangy chutney and shredded radish. I remember having them almost every week during the winters, and each time I used to ask for some extra radish because they will never seem enough. You can easily spot a Ram Ladoo seller in every nook and corner of the city. However, my favourite one is at Lajpat Nagar Market.
Where: Any street vendor near your house/ hotel or D-35, Lajpat Nagar II
Daulat ki Chaat
Daulat ki Chaat is an Old Delhi speciality that is only available between November and February. The texture is what makes it so unique. The milk is churned for hours and kept out in the cold overnight on an ice slab to get a foamy and frothy texture that melts instantly in the mouth, leaving a sugary taste behind.
Where: Dariba Kalan, Old Delhi
Nihari
Nihari is a winter-special delicacy eaten with Sheermal or Naan Bread. Surprisingly this dish is a breakfast staple. However, it is available throughout the day. Its rich and spicy taste will tingle your taste buds and leave you with a smile. You can club it with a plate of piping hot kebab that will make your dining experience even better.
Where: Al Jawahar (Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi) and Kallu Nihariwale (Jama Masjid behind Delight Cinemas)
Matar Kachori
Matar Kachori is another winter special savoury snack that is a big hit in northern India. This flaky deep-fried patty stuffed with peas is a favourite evening snack that goes well with tea. You can also have it with potato curry or top it with a tangy chutney.
Where: Fateh Chand Ki Kachori (Civil Lines), Paranthe wali Gali (Chandni Chowk) and Baba Nagpal Corner (Lajpat Nagar)
Gajak, Rewari & Chikki
Gajak, Rewari & Chikki are dry sweets made of sesame seeds, peanuts and jaggery. My mom loves to have these in between her meals. Eating these help in improving digestion and also provide warmth in the cold season. These come in various shapes and sizes and are available at most of the grocery stores near your house/ hotel.
Shahi Tukda
I don’t have a sweet tooth. However, Shahi Tukda is one dessert that transports me to Old Delhi every year! An exotic bread pudding made with fried bread soaked in sweet milk. It originates from Hyderabad. However, for Delhi folks, there is no better place than Chandni Chowk to have this delectable dessert.
Tip: Head to Al Jawahar to have Nihari and stop by the Shahi Tukda stall opposite this place for desserts.
Where: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi
Gajar ka Halwa
A warm bowl of Gajar ka Halwa is all you need to comfort yourself on a chilly winter night. It is wholesome and comforting. Made with grated carrots, sugar, nuts, condensed milk and cooked well in ghee. You can either make this at home or order from Haldirams.
Where: Haldirams and Bikanervala
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