The vibrant city of Jaipur is abuzz with action
and is drenched in historical glory. From the beautiful faded glamour of the
dusky, pink-stoned architecture, to the regal City Palace, this city pulses
with all the ancient allure of the East. Described by Lonely Planet as the “gateway to India’s most flamboyant state,”Rajasthan’s most notable city is a place that has
enthralled travellers for decades.
As a general rule, Indian cities are considered
to be overwhelming for the uninitiated, and Jaipur proves no exception. The
streets are alive with the sound of zooming motorbikes whilst cycle-rickshaws
weave their way fearlessly through the crazy traffic. Colourful bazaars and
markets are packed to bursting with bustling bodies, lively sounds and the
mouth-watering smells of sizzling street food.
Street food in India is kind of a big deal. A
firm part of a culinary culture that has inspired the menus of some of London’s best Indian fine dining restaurants, the
tasty treats you pick up on the streets of India’s big cities are as much of a reflection of the country’s history and diverse cultures as the grand
palaces and places of worship you can find all over the sub-continent. From
spicy, savoury snacks to sugary, crisp comfort food, it is impossible to go
hungry on the streets of Jaipur.
Of course, Indian cuisine might be a blanket
term but it does not do true justice to the myriad of cultures and ethnicities
that together have created this global favourite. Although there might be
certain street food specialities that are recognised all over India, such as
the tradition of savoury, deep-fried chaat, specific cities and states will
provide their own distinct variations of certain recipes as well as their own
signature street food dishes.
Here are a few Jaipur favourites:
1.
Pyaazkekachori
This Rajasthan favourite is a must-try on the
streets of Jaipur. The deep-fried kachoris are irresistibly crispy and the
caramelised, onion filling provides a simultaneously sweet and savouryflavour.
Enjoy with a spicy tamarind chutney.
2.
Malailassi
A deliciously creamy malailassi is one of the
signature drinks of Rajasthan. Look out for the streetsidelassiwala, pedalling
his decadent wares. These luxurious drinks are made with thick milk and
flavoured with cardamom or a splash of rosewater. Almonds or saffron might be
used as garnish but the most important finishing touch is the thick layer of
malai, or cream, that rests on top.
3.
Rabri
This sweet dessert is created from dahi, millet
flour and rich buttermilk. The mixture is left to ferment for several hours and
seasoned with cumin, masala spices or dried fruit and nuts. This creamy
concoction can be eaten whilst still warm or cooled and enjoyed as a cold
dessert.
4.
Paneer pakora
If fried cheese isn’t the ultimate in decadence then we don’t know what is! Slices of marinated paneer are coated in a spiced
besan batter and deep-fried until golden-brown. Just the roadside snack to
enjoy during the monsoon storms.
5.
Jalebi
