For the Indian food aficionado, the streets of Mumbai are paved in some of the most delectable snacks and recipes to be found in any of the Indian states. In fact, it is almost possible to decipher the history of this famous Indian city from the way it is reflected in the dishes on offer. This is thanks to the many different cultures that have flocked to the city over the years, bringing their own distinctive culinary traditions to the capital of Maharashtra and helping to form the incredible menu of delicacies that can be found in the city today.
Some might be simple – a snack you might find on a street vendor’s cart; but others are more complex – speciality dishes passed down through the generations. But one thing is for sure: all are delicious.
Here are some of our must-try Mumbai foods:
1. Murgh Makhani
The infamous butter chicken, beloved throughout the states of India – Murgh Makhani traces its roots back to the kitchens of the mighty Mughal maharajas. A decadent dish of marinated chicken cooked in a rich, buttery sauce and served with a hunk of warm flatbread, this is the choice of dinner for countless Indian families out for an evening meal in Mumbai.
2. Batata Vada
Any time of day is the right time of day for this favourite Mumbai snack. A tasty, deep-fried dumpling consisting of spiced, mashed potatoes and an assortment of flavour some additions, including garlic, chillies, ginger and a smattering of zesty cilantro, the batata vada can be found on a number of street corners all over the city and it is one of the must try street food of Mumbai.
3. Bombay Duck
A deceptive name, this dish does not actually contain any duck at all. It is, in fact, a fish dish featuring the bombil, a fish native to Mumbai. Smothered in a spicy besan batter, the bombil is squished flat and deep-fried to a crisp.
4. Bhelpuri
The number one street food favourite in Mumbai, or so we have heard it said… These crunchy snacks are served in newspaper cones and consist of puffed rice, puris, sev and an assortment of chopped onion, mango and potatoes. This crispy treat makes an excellent snack when you’re on the go – don’t forget to slather it in sweet and spicy chutney to get the full effect.
5. Frankie
An unusual name for a Mumbai dish you might think, however the Frankie is viewed with affection by many of the foodies of Mumbai. It is essentially an Indian wrap consisting of a piece of fluffy naan bread, coated in egg and stuffed to bursting with shredded chicken, mutton or a vegetarian-friendly paneer or potato filling. You won’t go hungry when Frankies are around.
6. Modak
Ready for a little something sweet? Modaks are reportedly a favourite treat of the Hindu god, Ganesha. Fat, little dumplings, filled with fresh coconut and flavoured with jaggery, modaks are twisted into a pear-shaped bundle and either gently steamed or deep-fried.
For more delicious, must-try Indian classics pay a visit to Mumbai and freshen up with these amazing delicacies and not forget to try Mumbai Street Foods.