Delhi: India's Ancient Street Food Capital

Delhi's journey to becoming India's Street Food Capital is a narrative woven through its history, from the rise and fall of empires to the daily lives of its inhabitants. The city's street food scene developed alongside its bustling markets and evolving demographics.

The origins of popular street foods, such as aloo tikki, can be traced back to merchants in Old Delhi who sought to offer quick snacks to shoppers. The lanes of Shahjahanabad, the old Mughal capital, were already known for dishes like kebabs and stews designed for on-the-go consumption.

Further culinary evolution occurred when British workers brought diverse recipes during the construction of New Delhi. Following the Partition, Punjabi refugees introduced rich, butter-based gravies and tandoori snacks, many of which are now city staples.

This historical depth, spanning royal kitchens to roadside stalls and incorporating influences from various communities, is why Delhi is celebrated as the Street Food Capital of India. The city's vibrant street food culture is not a niche interest but a primary aspect of daily life, feeding millions across all social strata.