Popular varieties include pani puri, where hollow crispy shells are filled with flavored water, potatoes, and chickpeas, and bhel puri, a crunchy mix of puffed rice, vegetables, and tangy sauces.
Another iconic street food is samosa, a deep-fried pastry stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat. These crispy Late night Indian food The Heights, Jersey City, NJ, USA pockets are often served with mint or tamarind chutney, making them a favorite for both lunch and evening snacks. Pakoras, which are fried vegetable fritters, are another staple. They are especially popular during monsoon season in India and are loved in The Heights for their crunchy texture and spicy flavor.
For those who enjoy heartier street food, pav bhaji is an ideal choice. This dish consists of a spicy vegetable mash served with soft buttered bread rolls. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Similarly, vada pav, a potato fritter sandwich, offers a quick, satisfying bite that reflects the fast-paced street food culture of India.
Sweet treats are also essential to the street food experience. Desserts like jalebi, a deep-fried spiraled pastry soaked in sugar syrup, and gulab jamun, soft milk-based dumplings in syrup, are widely available and provide the perfect end to a street food meal.