There’s a chill in the air, and Delhiites know that Dilli ki sardi is more than just wrapping yourself up in woollens—it’s also an opportunity to sample some mouthwatering treats that are made and enjoyed particularly during the winter. The Capital has a lot to offer when it comes to delicious winter cuisine, aside from its lovely, breezy monuments and warm sunshine! You can therefore make the most of winters here in Dilli, whether you want to enjoy a delicious breakfast or have a sweet tooth that is aching for treats!
Delhiites love this spicy, delicious, and distinctly Indian dessert, especially on a chilly winter’s morning. When cravings strike, Anubhav Sapra, chief foodie at Delhi Food Walks, a group that arranges food walks, suggests Chaina Ram in Chandni Chowk. “All of their desserts are delicious, but their gajar ka halwa—which is loaded with khoya and dry fruits—is simply irresistible,” he says. “If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try their exclusive wintertime offerings, which include Safed Gajar Halwa, Habshi Halwa, and Aloe Vera Halwa.” Another location where one can indulge in the rich halwa made with pure desi ghee is Shyam Sweets in Chawri Bazaar.
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Haji Shabrati Nihari Wale, which is close to Jama Masjid, is well-known for its traditional desi Mughal cuisine and offers some of the best mutton and nalli nihari in the city. Heritage walk organiser Asif Khan Dehlvi says, “Most of our walks in Old Delhi involve a visit to shops that sell amazing nihari and mouthwatering kebabs.” He continues, “In Delhi winters, kebabs with rumali roti are also a hit with both locals and tourists.” Ustad Moinuddin Kebab in Chawri Bazaar serves perfectly spiced minced meat that is served with onion rings and chutney.
Shahi Tukda
A bite of gooey Shahi Tukda topped with Rabri is what Dilli ki Sardi is all about. The best places to get this sweet are Kallan Sweets and Cool Point, which are close to Jama Masjid, according to Abu Sufiyan, the organiser of the heritage walk in Delhi. “I frequently visit Jama Masjid for tea with my friends. However, nothing tastes better in the winter than steaming hot Shahi Tukda. They have the perfect amount of sweetness and are made fresh every day. Additionally, I recommend serving it with a dollop of your favourite ice cream,” he continues.
Sabzi and Bedmi Puri
Do you enjoy having breakfast? Indulge your taste buds with the unbelievably crispy, deep-fried Bedmi Puri. The 100-year-old Shyam Sweets store in Chawri Bazaar, which is run by the fifth generation of the same family, is one of the most well-known establishments in Delhi. “Our preparation involves recipes that are as old as the shop,” says shop owner Ajay Agarwal, “which is why people love our Bedmi Puri.” But it’s only available from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Doodh and Jalebi with a hint of Malpua
Warm and spicy jalebi paired with garam doodh is an incredible combination to combat the bone-chilling Delhi winters. Ramit Mitra, who hosts food walks for Delhi By Foot, suggests visiting Chandni Chowk’s Old Famous Jalebi Wala, a store that has been in operation since 1884. They are very old and well-known for their thick jalebis made with desi ghee. I have a sweet tooth, so I don’t mind either,” he says. “Hira Sweets in Connaught Place and Bengali Sweets in Bengali Market sell the crispy thin versions. He continues, “Standard Sweets near Chawri Bazaar has finger-licking good moong dal ka halwa and malpua, and they have hot puris on Sunday mornings.
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Gajak and Chikki
These jaggery treats, a north Indian wintertime staple, give your days a hint of warmth and sparkle. “The best Til Patti, Chikki, can be found at a store in Kinari Bazaar named Meerut Wale. It is open for business for just six months during the winter. Time is the best thing, and these are a warm, crunchy treat during the winters in north India, according to Sapra. During the winter, a variety of gajaks and chikkis are served in many Old Delhi shops.
