The Best Indian Street Food To Try - A Food Lover's Guide

Have you ever strolled through Calgary and smelled the amazing scents coming from food stalls? This is where you start your adventure with Best Indian Street Food Calgary. As Calgary’s Indian community grows, it brings real tastes and lively traditions of Indian street food, inviting everyone to try and enjoy these delicious snacks. 

Why is Calgary a Hub for Indian Street Food?

Calgary’s Indian community has flourished throughout the years, creating a dynamic food scene that brings authentic Indian street foods right to your doorstep. These eateries and stalls are more than just places to eat, they are cultural gatherings where traditional recipes and cooking methods are celebrated. Each vendor brings their own unique touch to their dishes, using age-old spices and ingredients that transport you straight to the streets of Delhi or Mumbai.

Must-Try Indian Street Foods in Calgary

Here’s a list of the must try Indian street foods in Calgary: 

# Samosas with Mint Chutney

These crispy, triangular pastries are a beloved snack, stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. Best enjoyed with a refreshing mint chutney, you can find top-notch samosas at vendors in Calgary or in small, family-run Indian eateries around the city. You can also try them out at our restaurant. 

Important note: Pair this with a cold sweet lassi, a creamy yogurt-based drink that helps balance the spices.

#Chaat with Tamarind Juice

Chaat refers to a variety of savory snacks that are typically tangy and spicy. A popular variant in Calgary is aloo chaat, made with spiced potatoes, crispy dough, and chickpeas. Enjoy it alongside a glass of juice, which complements the tanginess of the chaat with its sweet and sour flavor.

#Pani Puri with Masala Tea

This dish consists of small, hollow puris filled with a mixture of flavored water, tamarind chutney, chili, and a mix of potatoes and chickpeas. It’s an explosion of flavors in your mouth with each bite. Pani puri is often paired with sweet and salted lassi or masala chai, a spiced tea that warms and soothes after the sharp flavors of the puris.

#Bhel Puri with Coconut Water

Bhel puri is a light and crispy snack made from puffed rice, vegetables, and a tangy tamarind sauce. It’s perfect for a quick bite that packs a punch of flavors without being too filling. Pair it with coconut water for a refreshing and hydrating experience that complements the spices well.

#Dosas with Coffee

Dosas are thin, crispy crepes made from fermented rice batter, filled with masala (spiced potatoes). Found in many South Indian restaurants across Calgary, they are served with coconut chutney and sambar (a lentil-based stew). A strong South Indian filter coffee, known for its intense flavor, is the perfect accompaniment to a meal of dosas.

Tips for Enjoying Indian Street Food in Calgary

Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of these vibrant and flavorful offerings.

#Best times to go

To catch the freshest snacks and the most lively atmosphere, head out in the early evenings or on weekends.

#What to expect

Most Indian street food experiences in Calgary are informal. Expect to eat while standing or sitting at basic tables. Embrace the bustling atmosphere—it’s part of the charm!

#Pairing drinks

Each dish has a recommended drink pairing above, but don’t hesitate to try other traditional beverages like nimbu paani (lemonade) or mango lassi.

Exploring Calgary’s Indian Street Food Scene

To truly dive into Calgary’s Indian street food, check out local food festivals such as Taste of Calgary, where Indian stalls offer a broad range of dishes. For a more in-depth experience, consider a guided food tour that focuses on Indian cuisine, offering insights into the culture and history behind the dishes.

Final Thoughts 

Tasting your way through Calgary’s Indian street food is not just about eating; it’s about experiencing the vibrancy and diversity of Indian culture. Each dish tells a story, each bite a reminder of the rich culinary heritage that Indian food represents. So, step out and let your taste buds lead the way to a memorable food journey in Calgary.