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Exploring the Lively Food Culture of Chandigarh

By Dr Himanshu Talwar

Chandigarh, the modern city nestled in the foothills of the Shivalik range, is known for more than just its architectural marvels. Its diverse food culture is a delightful fusion of flavors from various regions of India that makes up for an amazing food experience that satisfies the soul.

As a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, the city brings together culinary traditions from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and beyond. Whether it’s the hearty Punjabi taste, the spicy flavors of Haryana, or the subtle delicacies of Himachal, Chandigarh offers a feast for every palate.

One cannot explore Chandigarh’s food culture without delving into its vibrant street food scene. The city’s bustling markets and roadside stalls are a hotspot of culinary delights. From spicy chaat (snacks) and crispy pakoras (fritters) to piping hot samosas and sweet jalebis, Chandigarh’s street food offerings cater to every taste and budget.

From food fairs featuring local delicacies to gourmet festivals celebrating international cuisines, these events bring together food lovers from near and far to savor the flavors of Chandigarh and beyond. Here are some famous food items from Chandigarh–

• Chole Bhature– Chole (spicy chickpea curry) is made from boiled chickpeas cooked with a blend of spices like coriander, cumin, ginger, garlic, and tomatoes. Bhature is a fluffy deep-fried bread made from fermented dough.

Sector 17, Sector 22, and Sector 34 market are known for their delicious Chole Bhature. Iconic eateries like Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Sector 22 and Garg Dhaba in Sector 17 serve some of the best Chole Bhature in town.

• Parathas- Parathas are a beloved breakfast staple in Chandigarh, with various versions made from flour or wheat and stuffed with different vegetables. For instance, Aloo ka paratha features a thick roti filled with spiced potato, Mooli ka paratha is made with grated radish, and Gobi ka paratha is stuffed with cauliflower and cabbage. These parathas are typically served with yogurt, raita, or pickles.

One of the most renowned places to enjoy delicious parathas in Chandigarh is “Garg Chaap Corner” located in Sector 23.

• Amritsari Kulcha – Kulcha is a type of leavened bread stuffed with a spicy mixture of mashed potatoes, green chilies, ginger, and other spices. It is traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven).

The Amritsari Kulcha served at Gopal Sweets in Sector 35 and Kulcha Land in Sector 8 is highly recommended for its authentic taste and flavor.

• Rajma Chawal- Rajma (kidney beans) are cooked with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of spices until they are soft and flavorful. It is served with steamed rice (chawal).

Rajma Chawal at local Punjabi dhabas are highly recommended.

• Kulfi Faluda– It is a delicious and refreshing dessert made with creamy kulfi (Indian ice cream), vermicelli noodles, basil seeds (sabja), rose syrup, and sometimes topped with nuts or dried fruits. To make it, kulfi is first frozen in molds, and then served with soaked vermicelli noodles, basil seeds, and rose syrup. It’s a perfect treat to beat the summer heat.

You can find excellent Kulfi Faluda at Gopal Sweets in Sector 8 or at Sindhi Sweets in Sector 17.

• Phirni– Phirni is a creamy rice pudding flavored with cardamom, saffron, and sometimes rose water, then set in earthenware pots or bowls. It’s chilled until firm and garnished with nuts before serving. The richness of the milk and the fragrance of the spices make it a delightful dessert. It is often found in traditional Punjabi restaurants and sweet shops in Chandigarh.

Chandigarh offers a diverse and delicious food scene, featuring a range of flavors to satisfy any palate. From tasty stuffed parathas and spicy butter chicken to refreshing lassiand fluffy bhaturas, exploring the city’s street food lets food lovers indulge in a variety of delectable dishes throughout the day.

Author is an industry veteran with various articles, columns, travelogues, and write-ups published specifically on Tourism, Hospitality, and Aviation to his credit

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