Raipur is a beautiful city located in the state of Chhattisgarh. The city might appear ordinary in the first instance. However, as you go ahead exploring the narrow bylanes of the city, you will be surprised to come across a string of street food hawkers and stalls selling some of the most mouth-watering delicacies you ever had. Let us help you explore the best street food of Raipur that you should not miss out on.
Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh, is also known as the “Rice Bowl of Central India.” The staple food items available here in abundance are rice, bajra, and jowar. Moreover, the local taste of dishes here takes inspiration from the surrounding areas. While Chhattisgarh boasts its native tribal food culture, the local food scene in Raipur also takes ample inspiration from the cuisine of West Bengal and Odisha.
Which is the Best Street Food in Raipur?
Raipur, in the modern era, depicts a beautiful blend of both traditional as well as contemporary lifestyles. Being the rice hub of Central India, a series of traditional as well as innovative recipes here are prepared with the help of rice.
As you are paying a visit to Raipur, make it a point to taste the rich, nutritious flavours of the local food items here. The local food scene of Raipur can be categorized as tribal & non-tribal recipes. Whether you try the breakfast or a complete meal, you can rest assured to get the taste you prefer as you explore the famous street food items of Raipur. Some of the must-have items here are:
1. Muthia
Muthia is available as a rich dumpling that is prepared in a traditional cooking method across the state of Chhattisgarh, especially Raipur. As rice is a staple ingredient in Raipur, Muthia is prepared out of a rich rice batter which is deliciously seasoned with an array of spices.
The best part of the popular snack item is that it is not fried. Rather, it is steamed to retain the original essence of the ingredients used. Moreover, this cooking method makes the snack item quite healthy and nutritious as well. Muthia is a famous dish in Raipur that is readily available across street food stalls and eateries of the city. The locals prefer having this dish as a leading breakfast item.
2. Aamat
The delicious curry is regarded as the divine Sambhar of the region. This delectable curry-like dish is prepared by mixing a wide range of healthy & nutritious veggies. The veggies are cooked in a rich ginger-garlic paste along with an assortment of spices to bring out the best flavours.
Traditionally, the dish is prepared in bamboo shoots. As a matter of fact, some local vendors still retain this cooking method and prepare the dish traditionally to help you have the best flavours. The bamboo helps in retaining the natural taste of the ingredients used in the dish while also adding a unique aroma throughout. It is a famous local speciality across the state of Chhattisgarh.
3. Bhajia
Bhajia is a famous street food item in Raipur which is quite popular amongst both the locals as well as tourists alike. A local version of classic Bhajji, a dish that is quite prevalent across South India. Bhajia, in Chhattisgarh, is prepared by using an array of rich ingredients. Each ingredient is responsible for imparting a unique flavour and aroma to the final dish.
Typically, Bhajia is prepared by using gram flour. The best part is that you will be spoilt for choices while ordering this delicacy. For instance, there is the Mirchi Bhaji (prepared with Chillies), Onion Bhaji (prepared with onions), and even Aloo Bhaji. The right use of spices and the delectable aroma of this dish make it a street-side favourite. The dish is best enjoyed with a cup of piping hot tea or coffee.
4. Bara
Bara can be regarded as a unique version of classic Vada, a popular snack item in South India. Bara, in Raipur, is available as a lightweight snack prepared out of fermented Urad Dal. A wide range of whole spices and veggies are added to the fermented lentil mixture to bring about perfection to the dish.
The use of minimum oil makes Bara a healthy alternative to an otherwise heavy and unhealthy snack option. The local speciality of Raipur represents the local food culture of Chhattisgarh. Bada is especially prepared on special occasions and festivals. It is a popular snack item that is served to guests as well.
5. Tilgur
Tilgur is also known as Til ka Laddoo. It is a famous sweet dish with its origins in the state of Chhattisgarh. To prepare the sweet delicacy, roasted til or sesame seeds are mixed with peanuts and jaggery.
The mixture is blended well and given round shapes in the form of a laddoo. Tilgurs are a must-have sweet dish on special occasions and festivals of the state. Makar Sakranti is one of the primary festivals on which this sweet dish is prepared across households and sweet shops of the city. You will love the light, delicious flavours of this dessert in Raipur.
6. Chila
A delicious, light breakfast delicacy that we all love having across the country has originated from the state of Chhattisgarh. Chila is therefore widespread across Raipur as well. Chila is available as a flat Indian chapati that is prepared by using a rich rice batter. The batter is usually prepared with Urad Dal to impart a healthy touch.
The dish is quite easy to prepare and readily available across leading food stalls and eateries of the city. Chila, in fact, is a popular breakfast dish across households of Raipur.
Conclusion
As you are visiting Raipur in Chhattisgarh, make it a point to try out its local delicacies. You can have these dishes across famous street stalls and eateries in the city. Now, you can also order food online in Raipur from Swiggy.
