Discovering Old Delhi's Winter Delicacies: A Culinary Journey

As winter descends into Old Delhi's historic streets, the food scene takes on a cosy and delectable transformation. Old Delhi, famous for its diverse cultural tapestry, is a haven for foodies in search of comfort and indulgence. From the scrumptious Nihari at Haji Shabrati Nihari Wale to the aromatic Gaajar ka Halwa at Chaina Ram, the age-old streets are adorned with culinary pleasures. Explore the heart of Chandni Chowk to savour the fragrant steaming bowls of nihari or indulge in the delicious sweetness of jalebis. Every bite in this historic quarter combines tradition with the delicious flavours of winter to create a culinary journey through time.A quintessential winter street food in Delhi, this one needs no introduction. This delicious chaat is what most people associate with winter street food in Delhi. Its manufacturing process is just as famous as its taste. The process involves meticulously churning thick, full-cream milk until it transforms into a fluffy foam. This foam is then carefully collected and accumulated into a sizeable mound. To this, a blend of dry fruits, khoya, and sugar is added, enriching its taste and texture. High temperatures cause the milk foam to melt and collapse, making this a special treat for the winter.The InformationWhere To Try: Babu Ram’s Stalls Price: INR 50 per plateAddress: Dariba Kalan and Sitaram BazaarMany traditional Indian sweets, best enjoyed warm, find their perfect setting in the winter months. Among these is the rich, dense dessert known as halwa, sweetened with either condensed milk or sugar syrup. It has a wide range of base ingredients. A few common ones are badam (nuts) ka halwa, moong dal (mung bean) ka halwa, gaajar (carrot) ka halwa, and suji (semolina) ka halwa. Each type offers its unique blend of flavours and textures. Still, they all share a comforting warmth, sticky sweetness, and aromatic spices that make them especially delightful during the "Dilli ki Sardi."The InformationWhere To Try: Chaina Ram Price: INR 760 (for 1 kg of Gajar Halwa)Address: 6499, Fatehpuri Chowk, Chandni ChowkKachori, a beloved fried snack in India, is typically made from maida. Depending on where they're served, different fillings, such as moong dal, are often stuffed within this hollow ball. You've likely tasted a lot of kachoris while travelling or at the metro station. However, for an exceptional kachori experience, a visit to Jang Bahadur Kachori Wala near Chandni Chowk Metro is a must. Their spicy kachoris are so flavourful that you might find yourself grabbing an extra plate or two to share with family and friends.The InformationWhere To Try: Jang Bahadur Kachori WalaPrice: INR 70 (for Khasta Kachori) Address: 1104, Gali Bhojpura Rd, Kinari Bazar, Maliwara, Katra Shah N Shah, Chandni ChowkThis dish is a national treasure and not just another mortal among famous dishes. Delhi-6 is renowned for it, which is a big thing considering all that Old Delhi has to offer. This hearty stew, traditionally prepared with a variety of meats like lamb, mutton, or chicken, is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a winter essential. Its warmth and richness make it perfect for fending off the cold, as well as common winter ailments like colds, coughs, and fevers.The Information Where To Try: Haji Shabrati Nihari WalePrice: INR 110 per plate (Nalli Nihari)Address: 722, Gali Haveli Azam Khan, Bazar Chitli Qabar, Jama Masjid, Old DelhiJalebi, a spiral-shaped sweet treat, is not just a famous delicacy in Delhi but a beloved dessert across India. They are well-known and wanted by everyone. They manage to be simultaneously crispy and delightfully syrupy through a magical and enchanting combination of textures. Make sure to gorge on these before departing from Delhi. Winter in Delhi is incomplete without this most decadent item on the menu.The InformationWhere To Try: Old Famous Jalebi WalaPrice: INR 360 (for 500 gm of Jalebi)Address: 1795, Dariba Corner, opp. Bank of Maharashtra, Dariba Kalan, Chandni ChowkShahi Tukda, as the name suggests, is a royal delicacy introduced by the Mughals. Each piece of Shahi Tukda is a lavish affair, richly adorned with creamy rabri, almonds, and a generous amount of ghee, making it a sumptuous treat. This indulgent dessert, commonly found in the food streets near Jama Masjid, is crafted by soaking deep-fried bread in a fragrant mixture of condensed milk, saffron, and dry fruits.The InformationWhere To try: Cool PointPrice: INR 50 (for Shahi Tukda with Rabri)Address: Gate No. 1, Jama Masjid, Netaji Subhash Marg, Daryaganj, New Delhi, DelhiWhen asked what their favourite dish is, Chole Bhature is the first street food that Delhiites will mention. A mouthwatering combination of spicy and flavorful chole (chickpeas) with fluffy, steaming bhature makes for the perfect North Indian treat. Roadside booths selling Chole Bhature can be found all over Delhi. Chhole Bhature has won over countless hearts with its unique flavours. Alongside the main dish, these stalls often serve tangy pickles and flavorful chutney, further enhancing the taste experience.The InformationWhere to try: Sitaram Diwan ChandPrice: INR 65Address: 2243, Rajguru Marg, Chuna Mandi