Mumbai's 10 Unique Street Foods

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Mumbai: 10 Unique Street Foods

Mumbai is a city that goes by various names. To some, it is known as the City of Dreams, while to food enthusiasts, it is referred to as the City of Street Foods. You can find an array of street foods in every part of the city. Mumbai, the bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture and diverse population, boasts a culinary scene as rich and varied as its streets. While popular favourites like Vada Pav, Bhel puri, and Pav Bhaji are well-known, the city offers a treasure trove of unique street foods and lesser-known dishes waiting to be explored.

Forget the guidebooks! Experience the true taste of Mumbai with 10 off-the-beaten-path dishes. This list takes you on a delicious journey through the city’s diverse food culture. Here’s a glimpse into 10 such unique street foods:

Keema Pav: This dish features a flavourful minced meat curry, typically made with lamb or mutton, simmered with aromatic spices, and served alongside soft pav buns. The succulent meat, infused with the warmth of cloves, cardamom, and garam masala, creates an explosion of taste in every bite.

Bun Maska: This seemingly simple combination of buttered bread and toasted buns holds a special place in Mumbai’s culinary heart. The secret lies in the use of high-quality bread, generously slathered with creamy butter, resulting in a satisfyingly light and fluffy snack, perfect for teatime or a quick breakfast. It is one of the most loved unique street foods in Mumbai.

Bombay Duck Fry: This dish, featuring the Bombay Duck, a unique fish known for its strong, pungent aroma, might not be for the faint-hearted. However, for adventurous foodies, the crispy fried fish, often marinated in spices and served with fiery chutneys, offers a distinct and unforgettable taste experience.

Kheema Ghotala: This Parsi delicacy features minced meat, usually lamb or chicken, cooked with eggs and cheese. The dish gets its name from the “ghotala,” a special metal pot used for slow cooking, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, layered flavour profile.

Bohri Samosas: Hailing from the Bohri Muslim community, these samosas are distinct from their North Indian counterparts. They are smaller, flakier, and often filled with unique combinations like minced mutton and lentils or potato and peas, offering a delightful burst of flavours and textures.

Kolhapuri Missal: This spicy lentil dish, originating from the city of Kolhapur, is a true explosion of heat and flavour. The thick, fiery gravy, packed with lentils, vegetables, and a blend of potent spices, is typically served with pav or roti, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Koli Fish Curry: This coastal delight features fresh, locally sourced fish cooked in a coconut-based curry with aromatic spices like turmeric, coriander, and chillies. The creamy coconut milk balances the heat of the spices, while the fresh fish adds a delicate sweetness, making it a perfect seafood indulgence.

Irani Akuri: This Parsi breakfast staple features scrambled eggs cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a generous amount of green chillies. The unique addition of chopped coriander and a sprinkle of lime juice adds a refreshing touch, making it a flavourful and energizing way to start the day.

Thepla: This flatbread, originating from Gujarat, is a popular street food in Mumbai. Made with whole wheat flour and often flavoured with fenugreek leaves, it is typically served with a variety of chutneys and pickles, offering a healthy and flavourful snack option.

Falooda: This refreshing dessert is a quintessential Mumbai experience. Layers of rose syrup, vermicelli, ice cream, and nuts come together in a tall glass, creating a visually stunning and delightfully sweet treat. The combination of textures and flavours makes it a perfect way to end a meal or cool down on a hot day.

These ten dishes are just a glimpse into the vast and diverse culinary landscape of Mumbai. Each bite offers a unique story, reflecting the city’s rich history and cultural influences. So, next time you find yourself in the bustling metropolis, be sure to venture beyond the familiar and embark on a delicious adventure with these unique street foods in Mumbai.