Paan is a popular after-meal treat in Banaras. Banarasi paan is known for its unique preparation which includes betel leaves filled with a mixture of areca nut, slaked lime, and various aromatic ingredients like fennel seeds, cardamom and rose petals. It is often enjoyed as a digestive and mouth freshener.
This tangy and spicy tomato chaat is a popular street food in Banaras. It involves cooking tomatoes with spices like cumin, black salt and red chilli powder, creating a flavourful and refreshing dish.
Banaras is renowned for its delicious kachori sabzi where flaky and crispy kachoris are served with spicy and tangy potato curry. The kachoris are deep-fried and filled with a mixture of lentils and spices making them a savoury delight.
Baati chokha is a traditional and wholesome dish in Banaras. Baati is a baked or grilled round wheat flour ball with a spicy gram flour filling, served with chokha, a mashed mixture of roasted eggplant, tomatoes and spices. This dish is hearty and provides a satisfying blend of flavours.
Malaiyyo is a sweet delicacy that is popular in Banaras, especially during the winter months. It is a frothy and creamy dessert made by churning milk and sugar together and then topped with saffron, pistachios and almonds. This light and airy dessert is enjoyed for its delicate texture and sweetness.
Thandai is a refreshing drink especially popular during the Holi festival. It is a cold beverage made with a mixture of milk, nuts (such as almonds and pistachios) and various spices like cardamom and fennel seeds. Thandai is known for its cooling properties and is often flavoured with rose petals.