Khajuraho, a small town in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is known for its ancient temples that showcase erotic sculptures. However, many people don't know that Khajuraho is also a haven for food lovers, offering a variety of mouthwatering street food dishes. In this article, we'll take you on a gastronomic journey through Khajuraho's street food scene, highlighting some of the town's most famous places to indulge in these delicious treats.
Poha Jalebi at Hanuman Mandir
Start your day with a breakfast of champions at Hanuman Mandir, where you can sample the quintessential Khajuraho street food combination of poha and jalebi. Poha flattened rice is mixed with spices, peanuts, and onions and then served with jalebi, a crispy, sweet pastry. This dish is the perfect blend of salty and sweet, making it an ideal way to kickstart your day.
Chat at Raja Cafe
No visit to Khajuraho is complete without trying the famous street food dish of chat. Raja Cafe, located in the heart of Khajuraho, is the place to go for this mouthwatering snack. Chat is a mix of vegetables, spices, and sauces, topped with crunchy sev and served on a bed of crispy papdi. At Raja Cafe, you can enjoy various chat dishes, including aloo chat, dahi chat, and sev puri.
Lassi at Jain's Sweet Shop
Jain's Sweet Shop is a beloved institution in Khajuraho, serving delicious sweet treats for over 50 years. However, the standout item on their menu is their lassi. Made from thick, creamy yogurt, sweetened with sugar, and flavored with rose water or cardamom, lassi is a refreshing drink that's perfect for a hot day. You can also try their other sweet treats at Jain's Sweet Shop, including barfi, gulab jamun, and rasgulla.
Kachori at Janki Chat Bhandar
Janki Chat Bhandar is a popular spot among locals for its delicious kachori. Kachori is a deep-fried pastry filled with spiced lentils or potatoes, and at Janki Chat Bhandar, it's served with tangy tamarind chutney and spicy green chutney. This dish is a perfect mid-day snack that will give you the energy to explore more of Khajuraho's sights.
Dosa at Madras Coffee House
Madras Coffee House may be a coffee shop, but it's also a great spot to enjoy South Indian street food. Their dosa is a standout dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter and filled with spicy potato masala. Dosa is typically served with sambar, a lentil-based vegetable soup, and coconut chutney. The crispy, savory dosa and the flavorful accompaniments make for a delicious meal that you won't soon forget.
In conclusion, Khajuraho's street food scene is a hidden gem every food lover should explore. From the sweet and savory combination of poha jalebi to the tangy flavors of chat, there's something for every palate in Khajuraho. Make sure to check out these famous places for the best street food that Khajuraho has to offer.