The food scene in Hyderabad is way too versatile to finish in one go! From pure vegetarian dishes like dosas and idlis to the best meat-based recipes, including biryani and haleem, here you get it all. And why not?! The city and its food culture, over hundreds of years, have seen the best amalgamations of various communities and their cuisines. According to the official website of the Telangana Government, Hyderabad, which was once the capital for Marathis, Kannadigas, Muslims, and Telugus as well, represents a unique blend of cuisines, beverages, and eating habits.
To explore the uniqueness of Hyderabadi cuisine in depth, in this article, we will walk you through some of the most popular street foods that you must try at least once. Read on.
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Street Foods Of Hyderabad: 9 Must-Try Delicacies In The City:
1. Irani chai and Osmania biscuits:
The very first food you will find upon entering the city is a cup of Irani chai, paired with melt-in-mouth Osmania biscuits. While the thick and creamy chai energizes you instantly, the cookies work as a quick fix for your untimely hunger pangs.
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2. Chicken shawarma:
In Hyderabad, you will find influences of the cuisines of Middle Eastern countries. Chicken shawarma is one such dish that caters to the palate of the city. Roasted chicken, wrapped in rumali roti, with some dips on the sides, this desi-style chicken shawarma wins hearts in just no time.
Also Read: From Charminar To Hitech City: 5 Iconic Biryani Spots In Hyderabad
3. Keema samosa:
Another popular Iranian dish to go with chai is keema samosa. Also referred to as lukhmi, it is triangular puffs with minced meat at the centre. You will also find its vegetarian version, prepared with corn stuffing.
Also Read: 5 Places In Hyderabad To Enjoy Good Food, Drinks, And Unwind!
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4. Mirchi bajji:
To put it simply, mirchi is green chilli and bajji is bhaji. A South Indian cuisine of mirchi bhajiya, it is a crispy delight served with the sides of different types of chutneys.
5. Punugulu:
Another popular dish from the Telugu food culture that is taking the Hyderabadi street food scene by storm is punugulu. It is a bite-sized fritter that is crispy on the outside and fluffy from within and is made with idli dosa batter, onions, and spices. It is light, airy, fulfilling and makes a delicious meal when paired with chutneys.
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6. Chicken 65:
One of the most popular street foods of Hyderabad, the dish finds its origin in the city. Chicken 65 is spicy and crispy and is prepared by marinating chicken pieces with yogurt, spices, curry leaves, and flour. The chicken is then deep-fried until golden and crunchy. It just tastes 'Wow'!
Also Read: 7 Iconic Eateries In Hyderabad To Experience Old-World Charm
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7. Boti kebab:
These succulent kebabs are all you need to turn any bad day around! This variety includes chunks of meat, marinated in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, ginger, chilis, papaya, and spices, and skewered to perfection. Then you brush some ghee on the tip and serve as snacks and appetizers.
8. Double ka meetha:
This iconic street food of Hyderabad is a soft and creamy dessert. Widely sold across the city, it is a desi-style bread pudding, made with bread slices soaked in saffron and cardamom milk. It is also known as 'double roti' as the dish swells to double its original size after baking.
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9. Falooda:
Another sweet dish that you must try before calling off the street food trail in Hyderabad is falooda. It is delightful rose-flavored milk, served with vermicelli noodles, basil seeds, and ice cream. It is refreshing and cold and makes for an indulgent treat after a good meal.
Which one of the above would you try first? Write to us in the comments below.