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The Indian subcontinent is known worldwide for its wide variety of street food. Beyond the fancy restaurants serving premium quality meals, street food holds a special place in Indian cuisine as it represents a variety of flavours, aromas, and textures. Street food is often considered junk or fast food, which makes it fall into the category of unhealthy. However, within the plethora of dishes, there are various slightly healthier dishes too that one can enjoy without feeling guilty.
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The beauty of Indian street food lies in its diversity, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and beliefs. For those seeking guilt-free indulgence, there is an abundance of options that prioritise health and well-being without compromising on taste. From humble idli to grilled corn and chaats, the variety is wide and wholesome.
Bhutta
Bhutta, also known as grilled corn, is a popular street food that is predominantly found in the winter season. Apart from being a delicious snack, it is also very nutritious and healthy. Corn is rich in fibre, protein, and antioxidants, and the dish's preparation involves roasting it on charcoal without any oil, thus making it healthy. Without seasoning, all food tastes bland; hence, to season the grilled corn, a mix of lemon juice, salt, chilli and chaat masala is smeared over the corn.
Shakarkandi Chaat
Shakarkandi chaat, a popular street food, offers a healthy indulgence. Made with roasted or boiled sweet potatoes, this chaat is rich in vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants. To prepare, dice the sweet potatoes and mix them with tangy chaat masala, lemon juice, and a hint of black salt. Add finely chopped onions, fresh coriander, and green chillies for a spicy kick. This nutrient-packed snack is low in calories and free from guilt, providing a deliciously wholesome treat.
Idli
Idli, a dish from South India, is a very prominent street food these days all over the country. This guilt-free dish is light and healthy due to the ingredients that go into the dish. Making of idli features a fermented batter made out of rice and urad dal. Then, the batter is slowly steamed, which gives it that pillowy and light texture. The fermented batter is good for maintaining gut health. The condiments that are served with idli are coconut chutney and sambar, both of which are enriched with fibre and protein.
Bhelpuri
This tangy, spicy snack combines puffed rice, diced tomatoes, onions, and boiled potatoes, ensuring a low-calorie yet filling treat. The inclusion of fresh coriander and green chillies adds a burst of flavour and nutrients. Tamarind and mint chutneys provide a tangy kick without the need for excessive fats or sugars. Topped with crunchy sev and a dash of chaat masala, bhelpuri offers a balanced mix of textures and flavours, making it a healthy, delicious option for snacking.
Chana Chaat
Chana chaat is a popular street food that's both delicious and slightly healthy, perfect for guilt-free snacking. Made with protein-rich chickpeas, it's packed with nutrients. The dish features a vibrant mix of chopped tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, providing a refreshing crunch. Tossed with tangy lemon juice, spicy green chillies, and a sprinkle of chaat masala, it offers a burst of flavour. Fresh coriander leaves and pomegranate seeds add a delightful garnish.
Poha
Poha is a popular street food in the northern Indian state of Indore. The dish features flattened rice called chiwda which has healthy carbohydrates and focuses on not weighing you down. The simplicity of the dish is adorned with spice mixes, roasted peanuts and curry leaves. Poha is a versatile dish, and you can add your favourite veggies to elevate it. The bare minimum usage of oil can also be replaced with ghee if you prefer that.
