Peshawar is known for its vibrant street food culture, offering a wide variety of flavorsome and traditional dishes. Here are some famous street food items that you can enjoy in Peshawar:
- Chapli Kebab: Peshawar is renowned for its flavorful Chapli Kebabs. These minced meat patties are made with a blend of ground meat, spices, and herbs, and are typically cooked on a flat grill. They are often served with naan bread and chutney.
- Seekh Kebab: Seekh Kebabs are another popular street food item in Peshawar. These succulent and well-spiced meat skewers are made from minced meat, mixed with various spices and grilled over charcoal. They are often served with fresh naan bread and chutney.
- Peshawari Tikka: Peshawari Tikka is a beloved dish in the city. Tender chunks of marinated meat, such as chicken or beef, are skewered and grilled to perfection. The tikka is known for its smoky flavor and is often served with naan bread, mint chutney, and sliced onions.
- Peshawari Charsi Tikka: Charsi Tikka is a spicier version of Peshawari Tikka, marinated with a blend of spices and cooked on an open grill. It gets its name from the Peshawari slang term “charsi” which means “tasty” or “flavorful.” It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Peshawari Ice Cream: Peshawar is also famous for its delectable ice cream. Peshawari ice cream is known for its rich and creamy texture, unique flavors, and the use of traditional ingredients. Some popular flavors include mango, pistachio, kulfa (saffron), and falooda (vermicelli).
- Samosa: Samosas are a popular snack in Peshawar as well as throughout Pakistan. These crispy, triangular pastries are typically filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, and sometimes minced meat. They are often served with chutney or yogurt dip.
- Pakoras: Pakoras are deep-fried fritters made from a batter of gram flour (besan) and various vegetables or meat. They come in different varieties, such as potato, onion, spinach, and chicken. Pakoras are commonly enjoyed as a snack with tea.
- Jalebi: Jalebi is a sweet treat loved by many in Peshawar. These deep-fried pretzel-shaped sweets are made from a fermented batter of all-purpose flour, deep-fried until golden, and then soaked in sugar syrup. They are enjoyed hot and are often paired with rabri (thickened milk).
These are just a few examples of the famous street food items you can find in Peshawar. Exploring the local street food scene is a great way to experience the city’s culinary delights and immerse yourself in its vibrant food culture.