Vendors across India prepare them fresh
Holi is a time for joy, togetherness, and, of course, indulgence in mouth-watering street food.
As people come together to celebrate the festival of colours, India’s streets are lined with vibrant stalls offering an array of traditional and innovative dishes.
From crispy snacks to decadent sweets, Holi’s food offerings are as colourful and diverse as the festival itself.
Whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply enjoying the festivities with friends and family, these street food ideas will elevate your Holi experience.
With Holi taking place on March 14, 2025, get ready to explore some of the most delicious street food and drinks that make this festival truly unforgettable.
Gujiya
No Holi is complete without gujiya. These deep-fried pastries, originating from North India, are filled with a rich mixture of khoya, dry fruits, and coconut.
The crispy outer shell and the sweet, nutty filling make them an irresistible treat.
Traditionally, gujiyas are made using maida flour and deep-fried in ghee, which enhances their aroma and taste.
Vendors across India prepare them fresh, serving them hot or soaked in sugar syrup for extra indulgence.
The slight crunch, followed by the soft, flavorful stuffing, makes gujiya a must-have during Holi.
In many households, the preparation of gujiya is a communal activity, bringing families together in the festive spirit.
Malpua
Malpua is another Holi favourite, often described as India’s version of pancakes.
These deep-fried delights are made from a batter of flour, milk, and cardamom, then soaked in sugar syrup.
The combination of crispy edges and a soft, syrup-infused centre creates a perfect balance of textures.
Some variations include adding mashed bananas or fennel seeds to the batter, enhancing the flavour.
Often paired with thick rabri (sweetened condensed milk), malpua becomes even more indulgent. The dish has regional variations, with Bengal, Odisha, and Rajasthan offering their unique takes.
Its rich taste and festive association make it a staple at Holi celebrations.
Jalebi
A street food staple, jalebi is a treat for those who love crunchy, syrupy sweets.
Made from fermented batter, deep-fried into intricate spirals, and dipped in saffron-infused sugar syrup, jalebis are best enjoyed hot.
The slight tanginess from the fermentation process adds depth to the sweetness, making jalebi a favourite across generations.
Some prefer pairing it with rabri for an added creamy contrast, while others enjoy it with a glass of warm milk.
During Holi, vendors make fresh batches in giant woks, filling the air with the tempting aroma of frying batter and caramelising sugar.
Dahi Bhalla
After indulging in sweets, dahi bhalla provides a refreshing contrast.
Made from urad daal, these soft dumplings are soaked, ground, and deep-fried before being dunked into chilled yoghurt.
Topped with tamarind and mint chutneys, along with a sprinkle of roasted cumin and black salt, dahi bhalla delivers a creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy experience.
The cooling effect of yoghurt makes this dish perfect for Holi, balancing out the richness of other festival foods.
It also offers probiotic benefits, aiding digestion after heavy meals.
Papdi Chaat
For a burst of flavour, papdi chaat is the perfect option, especially during Holi.
This popular street food consists of crispy wafers layered with boiled potatoes, chickpeas, yoghurt, tamarind chutney, and a blend of spices.
The combination of crunch, spice, and tangy chutneys makes this street food a festive favourite.
Fresh coriander and pomegranate seeds often add a burst of freshness and colour.
Every bite delivers a mix of textures—crispy, creamy, and juicy—ensuring it remains one of the most sought-after snacks during Holi.
The balance of flavours makes it a dish that caters to all taste preferences.
Kachori
Kachori is a deep-fried snack with a flaky crust and a spicy lentil or potato filling.
Different regions offer variations, such as Daal Kachori or Pyaaz Kachori.
Vendors serve them hot with tamarind or green chutney, adding an extra layer of flavour.
Some versions, like Raj Kachori, come with yoghurt, chutneys, and sev, making them even more indulgent.
The crispy bite and the burst of spice make kachori an essential part of Holi street food.
The preparation process, which involves slow frying for an even crisp texture, ensures each bite is as satisfying as the last.
Aloo Tikki
Aloo tikki is a crowd-pleaser and a must-have at any Holi gathering.
These crispy potato patties are shallow-fried until golden brown and served with a variety of toppings, including spicy chickpea curry, yoghurt, and chutneys.
Some variations include stuffing the patties with spiced lentils or paneer for added texture.
The crispy exterior and soft, flavorful inside make aloo tikki a comforting and satisfying snack.
Street vendors often prepare them on large griddles, filling the air with the unmistakable aroma of sizzling potatoes and spices.
Thandai
When it comes to drinks, no Holi celebration is complete without thandai.
This cold milk-based drink is infused with almonds, fennel, saffron, and cardamom.
Traditionally, it’s prepared by soaking and grinding nuts and seeds into a fine paste before mixing it with milk and sugar.
It’s not just delicious but also a natural coolant, perfect for spring’s rising temperatures.
Many versions include bhang, an herbal addition that adds to the festival’s fun.
Thandai’s creamy, spiced flavours make it the perfect Holi drink, offering both refreshment and energy.
Kanji Vada
Kanji vada is a lesser-known but refreshing Holi drink.
It consists of small lentil dumplings soaked in fermented mustard-flavoured water.
The tangy and slightly spicy taste makes it a unique addition to Holi festivities.
Rich in probiotics, kanji vada aids digestion and has a distinctive sharpness that cuts through the richness of fried foods.
Its deep-red colour, derived from mustard and black carrots, makes it as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
Sugarcane Juice
With all the dancing and celebrations, a refreshing drink is essential.
Sugarcane juice, served fresh with a hint of lemon and ginger, is a great way to stay hydrated.
Its natural sweetness and cooling effect make it a perfect street drink for Holi.
Packed with electrolytes, it helps maintain energy levels, making it a go-to choice for festival-goers.
Street vendors often use hand-cranked juicers, ensuring the drink is as fresh and natural as possible.
Holi is as much about food as it is about colours and celebrations.
The combination of sweet and savoury street foods, along with cooling drinks, creates the perfect festive experience.
Whether you’re indulging in crispy kachoris, syrupy jalebis, or a glass of chilled thandai, these street foods add to the joy of Holi.
Each dish reflects regional diversity, cultural heritage, and the shared happiness that defines the festival.
Enjoy the festival with these iconic treats, and make your Holi celebrations even more special.
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