Dhanbad, a city known for its coal mining industry, offers a diverse range of delicious foods that reflect both traditional and modern Indian cuisine. Here is a guide to the top 10 foods you should try when visiting Dhanbad:
1. Chili Chicken
- Description: A spicy and tangy Chinese dish made from chicken pieces stir-fried with bell peppers, onions, and green chilies, flavored with soy sauce and other spices.
- Where to Try: The Tandoor, near Bank More.
- Ideal For: Spicy food lovers and Chinese cuisine enthusiasts.
2. Chole Bhature
- Description: A popular North Indian dish consisting of deep-fried flatbread (bhature) served with spicy chickpea curry (chole). It’s a favorite breakfast or lunch item in Dhanbad.
- Where to Try: Wasseypur Market and Bank More.
- Ideal For: Breakfast lovers and anyone craving hearty street food.
3. Momos
- Description: Steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with a variety of fillings like vegetables, chicken, or pork. Momos are served with spicy dipping sauces and are a popular street food in Dhanbad.
- Where to Try: Citi Centre, Bank More.
- Ideal For: Snacks and quick bites, especially for momo enthusiasts.
4. Samosa
- Description: A deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or minced meat, samosas are one of the most famous snacks in India. In Dhanbad, they are served with tamarind chutney.
- Where to Try: Gaya Singh Samosa and local roadside stalls at Bank More.
- Ideal For: Snack lovers and tea-time companions.
5. Chana Chaat
- Description: A flavorful street food made from boiled chickpeas (chana), mixed with onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and spiced with lemon and chaat masala. It’s a healthy and tangy treat.
- Where to Try: Chowpati, Pani Tanki.
- Ideal For: Light, refreshing street food with a spicy twist.
6. Handia
- Description: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from rice, jaggery, and herbs, often served chilled. It is popular among the tribal communities in Jharkhand and is known for its mildly intoxicating properties.
- Where to Try: Local markets in Wasseypur and surrounding tribal areas.
- Ideal For: Adventurous foodies looking to try traditional drinks from Jharkhand.
7. Tandoori Chicken
- Description: A smoky, flavorful chicken dish marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked in a tandoor (clay oven). The dish has a crispy exterior with tender, juicy meat inside.
- Where to Try: Moti Mahal Deluxe, Bank More.
- Ideal For: Non-vegetarian lovers and those craving a flavorful chicken dish.
8. Pani Puri (Gupchup)
- Description: A popular Indian snack consisting of round, hollow puris filled with a mixture of tamarind water, chickpeas, and spices. It’s a tangy, spicy treat enjoyed by people of all ages.
- Where to Try: Bank More Chowk and local street vendors.
- Ideal For: Street food lovers looking for a tangy, crunchy snack.
9. Dhokla
- Description: A savory, spongy steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour. It is served with a tangy tamarind chutney and garnished with mustard seeds and curry leaves.
- Where to Try: Local snack stalls and vegetarian restaurants.
- Ideal For: Breakfast lovers or anyone looking for a light, savory snack.
10. Litti Chokha
- Description: A traditional dish from Jharkhand, Litti Chokha consists of round wheat flour dough balls stuffed with roasted gram flour (sattu), served with mashed vegetables like eggplant, tomato, and potato. It is usually served with a spicy chutney.
- Where to Try: Gaya Singh Litti Dukan, Randhir Verma Chowk.
- Ideal For: Those looking to try authentic local cuisine.
Tips for Enjoying Dhanbad’s Street Food
- Timing: Most street food stalls operate in the evening, around 5 PM to 9 PM. It’s best to visit during these hours.
- Hygiene: Look for vendors who maintain a clean setup. Choosing stalls with higher customer turnover is a good way to ensure the food is fresh.
- Spice Levels: Many street foods in Dhanbad are spicy, so be prepared if you prefer milder flavors. You can always ask for a less spicy version.
- Cash: Carry cash as many street vendors may not accept digital payments.
- Local Flavors: Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like Litti Chokha, which is a must-try food for anyone visiting Jharkhand.
Best Locations to Explore Dhanbad’s Street Food
- Bank More: Known for its bustling food stalls and variety of snacks, this is the most popular area for street food in Dhanbad.
- Saraidhela: Offers a mix of traditional and modern street foods, including tandoori snacks and chaats.
- Wasseypur: A great area for sampling local delicacies and experiencing Dhanbad’s cultural flavors.
- Chowpati: Located near Pani Tanki, this area is perfect for enjoying a variety of chaat items and quick snacks.
Conclusion
Dhanbad’s street food offers a delightful mix of traditional dishes and modern flavors. Whether you’re craving something spicy, tangy, or sweet, Dhanbad has something to offer every food enthusiast.