Indian Chaats- The Exotic Flavors & History

Recently been to a wedding? I am sure that you must have tried those flavourful papdis and some panipuris or as we also call them gol-gappe in some region or puchkas in other.

With the literal meaning of the term ‘’chaat’’, I can definitely tell you that it does make us lick the bowls. This one of a kind Indian snack is world-wide known for its exotic taste and flavours.

The Intricate History of Indian Chaat

Do you know this famous snack got originated during the reign of Shah Jahan? Yes, Chaat has been associated in Indian history since the times of Shah Jahan. Initially developed to cure diseases through the variety of spices that goes into it, this recipe has been adopted by Indians in their own unique forms.

And when it comes to Indian weddings, there is no better treat for your guests than spicy and sweet varieties of chaat. It is one such snack that has an integral place in our menus irrespective of the occasion and is undoubtedly a dish which gets most searched by the guests in any social gathering.

The variety and the blend of elements

Indian chaats have been forever popular due to their traditional use of masalas, mouth-watering taste and the perfect blend of spices. Each nook and corner of India carries its own story of its regional chaat. The Indian chaats like Golgappa, Gaathiya chaat, Bhelpuri, Corn chaat, Katori chaats, etc are accepted for their exotic taste all over India and now you can also find this snack in other countries as well. The aroma of this lip-smacking dish takes us to a different world altogether and perfectly satiate our taste buds.

Here are some ultimate Indian chaats that you just can’t afford to miss trying!

Raj Kachori- Rajasthan

Originated in Bikaner, this chaat has everything to call it royal for all good reasons. The mesmerizing look, lip-smacking taste and the right combination of flavors, it is undoubtedly the best snack to try in India. Now, this chaat also gets served in other major cities in India.

Source: vegrecipesofindia (left)

Lakhanpur De Bhalle, Jammu & Kashmir

This delicacy adds to the beauty of the place it comes from! One of the most popular snacks in Lakhanpur, the town in J&K, the tangy aroma and spicy flavors of this dish will definitely make your day.

Kachori sabzi- Varanasi

Talking about food, how can we miss the city with the most amazing dishes and snacks? Popular for so many factors, Varanasi also tops the list when it comes to Chaat. The famous Kachori Sabzi of Varanasi will make you go crazy with its delicious recipe. You will surely crave for this dish again and again.

Source: hebbarskitchen

Delhi- Matar Chaat

Misal Pav, the most found dish in Maharashtra is making its way to other states of India and other countries as well. A dish made with a bread roll with mouth-watering curry prepared with sprouted misal, also known as moth beans. This dish gets served with buttermilk and papad.

Samosa Chaat, Delhi

The perfect combination of samosa and chaat, this flavorful dish is another dish that you must try! Served with different chutneys like tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and yogurt, this chaat is all you need. The additional sev toppings served with coriander adds soothing flavor to the dish.

Source:monsoonspice (right)

Dabeli, Ahmedabad

Dabeli, a spicy snack for Gujarat, it is all you need to soothe your craving. Prepared with boiled potatoes with dabeli masala, this mixture gets served with chutney prepared with tamarind, red chilies, garlic, etc. You will just want to take bite after another bite.

Source : aromaticessence (left & right), binjal’s kitchen (middle)

So which city makes the best chaat? Is it Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Meerut or your favorite? Share your experience with us; we would love to hear your chaat story!