When you walk down the street in the middle of the evening, does your nose start sniffing the scent of food like that of a greyhound on a hunt? If all your New Year’s resolutions have been in vain because all self-control disappears when you hear the noise of a ladle scraping a wok or the bubbling of hot oil- you should know that you are not alone. Street food is the devil we love just as much as you. Over the years, Indore has become a name synonymous with food — delicious food. The local food palate of the city is unique due to its central location and the history of the Maratha influence. A combination of spices from central India and the recipes bought by the Marathas are characteristic of Indore markets. A heaven on earth for anyone who enjoys street food, Indore is popularly known for two street food markets — Sarafa Bazaar and Chappan Dukan.
Sarafa Bazaar, One Of The Indore Markets That Transforms Under The Dark Of The Night
Sarafa Bazaar is a local market lined with gold and diamond shops. As the shutters to these shops shut and tired shoppers make their way back, nocturnal street food vendors start setting up. Vegetables are cut and breads are toasted as the hustle of the night market takes over the street.
It is said that the jewellery vendors encourage these stalls believing that the hustle bustle act as security during the night. Just a few hundred metres from Rajwada Palace, this food market is home to more than a hundred stalls. They sell everything from kulhad pizza to flying dahi bhalle.
An amalgamation of love and innovation, the variety of dishes will leave you drooling. Joshi Ji’s dahi bades have garnered quite a following on social media because of his unique way of making them. Dishes like garadu, bhutte ka kees, and Indore’s unique coconut crush will keep you coming back for more
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Chappan Dukan, No Less Than An Offering To The Gods
Chappan Dukan gets its name from ‘Chappan Bhog’, the sacred offering to Krishna. It is an upmarket food complex in the Palasia area of Indore. This market is known for being one of India’s cleanest street food hubs. All 56 stores serve delectable food from 6 AM in the morning.
You must try the famous poha and jalebi from as many stores as you can. They all have a flavour unique to their maker. For the more adventurous, Johnny Hot Dog is a fan favourite serving appetising aloo patties in their version of a hot dog.
Before making your journey back home, make sure you take some of this delicious city with you. Indore’s namkeens- sevs, bhujiyas and other dry snacks make the perfect souvenirs for foodies back home!
Cover Image Credits: Yash Rungta & Vaidehi Joshi
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