Chana-Kulcha Love: A Delicious Roadside Encounter

If you’re a fan of street food like me, you know the magic of stumbling upon that perfect little stall where the food is not just tasty but served with love. Recently, I had a delightful experience that reminded me why street food holds a special place in my heart—and my stomach!

After a long day of shopping with a friend, we were hungry, tired, and craving something delicious yet comforting. Enter a modest roadside vendor selling chana-kulcha, the ultimate street snack. What set this little stall apart wasn’t just the food, but the warmth of the vendor lady and her husband, who were running the show like a well-rehearsed duet.

But here’s the twist: we were too exhausted to eat standing, especially after all that walking. Noticing our fatigue, we asked if there was any place to sit, perhaps in the shade. To our surprise, the vendor lady immediately rolled out a mat on the sidebar, creating a cosy little sitting spot for us. The gesture was so simple, yet so thoughtful, that it made the entire experience special before we even took our first bite.

Now, onto the food. The chana-kulcha was everything you want in a street snack—soft kulchas perfectly paired with spicy, tangy chana, all enhanced by the accompaniments. The sides of freshly cut onions and mirchi ka achar were the cherry on top, adding that extra zing and crunch. Each bite was a reminder of how local flavours hit differently when served with authenticity.

I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant at first about indulging in street food. We’ve all heard the cautionary tales. But this experience was a testament to the fact that food, when made and served with care, transcends those concerns. The stall was clean, the food was fresh, and the flavour was nothing short of delightful. To top it off, we both walked away feeling satisfied—and no, nothing happened to us except some full and happy stomachs!

What makes street food experiences like this unforgettable is not just the food but the people behind it. This thele wali and her husband weren’t just serving food; they were sharing a piece of their world with each customer. Their genuine warmth and the way they catered to us with such hospitality was a reminder that food is about connection as much as it’s about flavour.

So, if you ever find yourself craving something local and authentic, don’t be afraid to stop by a roadside stall. You might not just get a delicious meal, but also a story to go along with it—a story of flavour, care, and a little mat rolled out just for you. 

Pics - From my mobile camera!

Neerja Bhatnagar

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