10 Popular Vegan Street Foods found in India

Amidst India’s vast culinary tapestry, vegan street foods have emerged as a popular and flavorful choice for both locals and tourists.

These delectable treats not only cater to the dietary preferences of vegans but also tantalise the taste buds of food enthusiasts from around the world.

Veganism has a deep-rooted history in India, primarily attributed to religious and ethical beliefs.

This philosophical inclination towards plant-based diets can be traced back thousands of years.

One of the earliest references to veganism in Indian culture comes from Jainism, a religion that emphasises non-violence towards all living beings.

Over time, various regional and cultural influences have shaped the vegan street food scene in India, leading to a vibrant and diverse range of options.

Let’s explore some of the most popular vegan street foods and where to savour them.

Pani Puri

Also known as Golgappa or Puchka in different regions of India, Pani Puri is an iconic street food loved by people of all ages.

It consists of hollow, crispy balls filled with a mixture of spicy and tangy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, sprouts, and a medley of spices.

The history of Pani Puri can be traced back to the northern regions of India, where it was initially known as ‘Phulki’.

To experience the authentic taste of Pani Puri, head to the streets of Delhi, Mumbai or Kolkata.

Vendors expertly prepare and serve these bite-sized delights, ensuring that each mouthful is a burst of flavour.

Chole Bhature

Hailing from the northern regions of India, Chole Bhature is a hearty and satisfying vegan street food.

It consists of spicy chickpea curry served with deep-fried bread.

The dish is a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, with the spiciness of the chole perfectly complementing the soft and fluffy bhature.

You can find delectable Chole Bhature at local eateries and street stalls in cities like Delhi, Amritsar and Chandigarh.

These places often serve it as a wholesome meal, garnished with pickles and a side of onions.

Dosa

The South Indian delight is a thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter.

Not only is Dosa delicious but it is also one of the healthier options in Indian street food.

Dosas come in various forms, with popular variations including Masala Dosa (stuffed with spiced potatoes) and Paper Dosa (thin and crispy).

The southern states of India, particularly Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, are renowned for their dosa preparations.

You will find dosa stalls and restaurants scattered across these regions, serving up this beloved vegan delight with an array of chutneys and sambar.

Vada Pav

Often referred to as the Indian burger, Vada Pav is a quintessential street food of Mumbai.

It consists of a spicy potato fritter served in a bun, along with chutneys and sometimes fried green chillies.

Vada Pav is a simple yet flavorful snack that captures the essence of Mumbai’s vibrant street food culture.

To taste the best Vada Pav, head to the streets of Mumbai, where dedicated stalls and vendors have perfected the art of making this iconic snack.

It’s an affordable and filling option that reflects the city’s fast-paced lifestyle.

Samosa

Samosa, a popular vegan snack, has its origins in the Middle East and Central Asia but has become an integral part of Indian street food culture.

This triangular pastry is made with a mixture of maida flour and vegetable oil.

It is typically filled with spiced potatoes and peas. The savoury treat is deep-fried to golden perfection.

Samosas are ubiquitous across India, and you can find them at street corners, local bakeries and even high-end restaurants.

They are often served with tamarind chutney or mint sauce, adding a burst of flavour to every bite.

Idli and Medu Vada

South India’s contribution to the world of vegan street food includes Idli and Medu Vada.

Idli is a steamed rice cake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, while Medu Vada is a crispy deep-fried doughnut-shaped fritter.

These two items are often served together, accompanied by coconut chutney and sambar.

In South Indian states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, small eateries and street vendors excel at preparing these dishes.

They are not just popular for breakfast but are also enjoyed as snacks throughout the day.

Aloo Tikki

Aloo Tikki is a beloved North Indian street food made from mashed potatoes mixed with various spices and herbs.

The mixture is shaped into patties and shallow-fried until golden brown.

It is often served with tangy tamarind chutney and a sprinkle of chaat masala.

In Delhi, you can find some of the best Aloo Tikki at bustling markets like Chandni Chowk and Sarojini Nagar.

These vendors have perfected the art of crafting crispy and flavorful tikkis that draw crowds of hungry food enthusiasts.

Ragda Pattice

Ragda Pattice is a popular street food from the state of Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai.

It consists of shallow-fried potato patties served with a spicy white pea curry and an assortment of chutneys.

This dish offers a delightful interplay of textures and flavours, making it a must-try for street food enthusiasts.

When in Mumbai, explore the local markets and beachfront stalls, such as Chowpatty Beach, to savour the authentic taste of Ragda Pattice.

Bhel Puri

Bhel Puri is a refreshing and tangy snack that originates from the western state of Maharashtra.

It is made by mixing puffed rice, chopped vegetables, tangy tamarind chutney, and a blend of spices.

Bhel Puri is known for its delightful crunch and the explosion of flavours in every bite.

Street vendors across India, from Mumbai to Kolkata, serve Bhel Puri.

You can often customise the spiciness and ingredients to suit your preferences, making it a versatile and enjoyable vegan snack.

Kachori

Kachori’s popularity as a vegan street food in India is primarily attributed to its delicious and satisfying flavour profile.

The crispy and flaky outer crust of the kachori, achieved through deep frying, provides a perfect contrast to the spicy and aromatic filling within.

The filling typically consists of ingredients like yellow lentils, black gram or spiced potatoes, often infused with a medley of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and asafoetida.

In North India, particularly in states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, Kachori holds a special place in the hearts of locals.

In cities like Jaipur and Agra, Kachori is a staple street food item, with vendors serving it alongside chutneys and pickles for an added burst of flavour.

India’s diverse and vibrant culinary landscape offers a treasure trove of vegan street foods that not only cater to dietary preferences but also celebrate the rich blend of flavours, spices and traditions that define this remarkable country.

Beyond the culinary delight, these street foods serve as a testament to India’s spirit of inclusivity, where diverse culinary traditions coexist harmoniously, offering something for everyone.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, or any other city or town in India, you’ll find these vegan street foods at every corner, bringing people together and igniting a shared love for flavorful, affordable, and accessible cuisine.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering the enchanting streets of India, don’t hesitate to dive into the world of vegan street foods.