Bangalore, known as the Silicon Valley of India, is not just a hub for technology and innovation but also a food lover’s paradise. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects the rich diversity of Karnataka’s cuisine. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, Bangalore offers a plethora of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, if you’re ready for a culinary adventure, join us as we explore the famous foods of Bangalore and the top 8 Bangalorean Recipes to make at home that you simply can’t afford to miss!
Famous Street Foods of Bangalore
When it comes to street food, Bangalore doesn’t disappoint. The city is home to some of the most famous and delicious street foods in India. One cannot talk about Bangalore’s street food without mentioning the iconic Masala Dosa. Crispy on the outside and filled with a spicy potato mixture on the inside, this South Indian delicacy is a must-try. Head to Vidyarthi Bhavan or CTR for an authentic and mouth-watering experience.
If you’re a fan of chaat, then Bangalore has got you covered. Indulge in the tangy and flavorful Pani Puri at the famous Food Street in VV Puram. The burst of flavors in your mouth will leave you craving for more. Don’t forget to try the crispy and spicy Bajji, a popular street snack made with various vegetables dipped in a gram flour batter and deep-fried to perfection.
Here’s a blog you absolutely need to check out if you want a comprehensive guide to the traditional foods of Bangalore and where to find them.
Must-try Dishes in Bangalore
- The Delightful Dosas of Bangalore
No visit to Bangalore is complete without indulging in the iconic dosas. These savory pancakes made from fermented rice and lentil batter are a staple breakfast item in Karnataka. While you can find dosas in various forms all over the city, two varieties stand out – Benne Masala Dosa and Thatte Idli.
- Benne Masala Dosa: Originating from Devanagari in Karnataka, this dosa is a true delight for dosa lovers. The soft, fluffy texture of the dosa, paired with a generous amount of butter, creates a heavenly combination. Served with coconut chutney, Benne Masala Dosa is a must-try at Central Tiffin Room (CTR) on Margosa Road.
- Thatte Idli: If you’re looking for a unique twist to the traditional idli, Thatte Idli is the answer. These large, plate-sized idlis are about 4 inches in diameter and are known for their soft, spongy texture. Served with sambar, coconut chutney, and a dollop of homemade butter, Thatte Idli is a delicacy you can’t miss. Head to Sree Shivasagar Bidadi Bisi Thatte Idly Hotel in Bidadi to experience the true flavors of this Karnataka specialty.
- Biryani, Karnataka Style
Biryani lovers rejoice! Karnataka has its own take on this beloved dish, and Bangalore serves up some delectable variations. When in the city, be sure to try the Donne Biryani and Bhatkali Biryani.
- Donne Biryani: A signature dish of Karnataka, Donne Biryani is made with regular rice, giving it a unique texture and flavor. The secret ingredients and masalas used in Donne Biryani make it an authentic and traditional delight. The biryani is traditionally served in a bowl made from the leaf of the nut palm tree, known as “donne” in Kannada. Indulge in this flavorful biryani at one of the many local eateries in Bangalore.
- Bhatkali Biryani: Originating from the Nawayath Muslim community of Bhatkal town in coastal Karnataka, Bhatkali Biryani is a must-try for biryani enthusiasts. This biryani is known for its fragrant spices and the rich flavors that come from the use of locally sourced ingredients. Experience the authentic taste of Bhatkali Biryani at one of the many restaurants in Bangalore that specialize in this delicacy.
- The Tempting Traditional Delights
Karnataka’s traditional cuisine offers a treasure trove of flavors and dishes that are deeply rooted in the culture and heritage of the state. Here are a few mouthwatering treats that you should definitely try during your visit to Bangalore.
- Coorg Pandi Curry: Coorg, a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, is known for its flavorful dishes. Coorg Pandi Curry is a pork curry made with a blend of authentic Karnataka-style masalas and spices. The combination of bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and coriander powder gives this curry its distinctive taste. Experience the rich flavors of Coorg Pandi Curry at local restaurants in Bangalore.
- Ragi Mudde: Ragi Mudde is a nutritious and wholesome dish made from finger millet flour and rice. This traditional Karnataka-style millet ball is shaped and served with a variety of curries, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. The soft and spongy texture of Ragi Mudde, combined with the flavors of the accompanying curries, creates a truly satisfying meal. You can savor this authentic dish at Mudde Madappa Mess in Majestic, Bangalore.
- Puliyogare: Puliyogare, also known as tamarind-flavored rice, is a popular dish in Karnataka. But don’t be fooled by the simple description – Puliyogare is a burst of flavors that will leave you craving for more. The tanginess of tamarind, combined with a blend of spices and sesame oil, creates a unique taste that is both savory and slightly sweet. Enjoy this delectable dish at Puliyogare Point in NR Colony, Basavanagudi.
- Bisi Bele Bath: Bisi Bele Bath is a classic Karnataka Khichdi made with lentils and rice. This dish brings together a harmonious blend of spices, vegetables, and the richness of ghee. It is best enjoyed with a side of chutney or onion raita, and a sprinkle of khara boondi for an added crunch. Indulge in the flavors of Bisi Bele Bath at Halli Mane, a popular eatery in Bangalore.
- Chicken Delicacies of Bangalore
Bangalore is a paradise for chicken lovers, with an array of mouthwatering chicken dishes that showcase the diverse flavors of Karnataka. Here are a couple of must-try chicken delicacies that will leave you craving for more.
- Korri Gassi: Korri Gassi is a Mangalore-style chicken curry that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Made with roasted chilies, spices, and creamy coconut milk, this curry is a perfect combination of flavors. Pair it with chapati, butter naan, or white rice for a truly satisfying meal. Explore the delightful taste of Korri Gassi at local restaurants in Bangalore.
- Kundapura Koli Saaru: Another gem from the coastal region of Karnataka, Kundapura Koli Saaru is a flavorful chicken curry that will transport you to the beaches of Mangalore. Infused with spices like cinnamon, black pepper, and bay leaves, this curry is a burst of aromatic flavors. Treat yourself to the authentic taste of Kundapura Koli Saaru at restaurants specializing in Mangalorean cuisine in Bangalore.
- Satisfying Sweets of Karnataka
No meal is complete without a touch of sweetness, and Karnataka has a rich tradition of mouthwatering sweets that will satisfy your dessert cravings. Here are a couple of iconic sweets that you must try during your visit to Bangalore.
- Mysore Pak: Mysore Pak is a legendary sweet from Karnataka that has gained popularity across the country. Made with gram flour, ghee, and sugar, this melt-in-your-mouth delicacy is a true indulgence. Experience the rich flavors and exquisite texture of Mysore Pak at sweet shops in Bangalore.
- Holige or Obbattu: Holige, also known as Obbattu, is a crispy sweet dish that is deeply rooted in Karnataka’s culinary heritage. Traditionally, Holige is made with coconut and jaggery fillings, but modern variations include stuffings like badam, kova, dal, and dates. Served with a generous amount of ghee, Holige is a treat for your taste buds. Head to Holige Mane in Malleshwaram to savor the authentic flavors of this delightful sweet.
- Coffee Culture: Filter Coffee
Bangalore is known for its vibrant coffee culture, and no visit to the city is complete without sipping on a cup of aromatic filter coffee. This traditional South Indian coffee is made using special coffee seeds grown in the coffee estates of Karnataka. The coffee is brewed using a traditional filter and served with milk and sugar. Explore the rich flavors and soothing aroma of filter coffee at local coffee houses and cafes in Bangalore.
Top 8 Bangalorean Recipes to Make at Home:
- Masala Dosa: To make the perfect masala dosa at home, start by soaking rice and lentils overnight. Grind them into a smooth batter and let it ferment for a few hours. Spread a ladleful of batter on a hot tawa, add a spoonful of potato masala, and fold the dosa. Serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Bisi Bele Bath: This flavorful rice dish is a staple in Bangalore households. To make a bisi bele bath, cook rice and lentils with vegetables and a special spice mix. Temper with ghee, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Serve hot with a dollop of ghee on top.
- Mangalorean Fish Curry: A spicy and tangy fish curry that is a favorite among seafood lovers. To make this delicious curry, marinate fish with turmeric, salt, and lemon juice. Fry the fish until golden brown and set aside. In a separate pan, sauté onions, ginger, garlic, and spices. Add tomatoes and coconut milk, and simmer until the gravy thickens. Add the fried fish and cook for a few more minutes. Serve hot with steamed rice.
- Mysore Masala Dosa: A variation of the traditional masala dosa, the Mysore masala dosa is known for its spicy red chutney spread on the dosa before adding the potato masala. To make the red chutney, roast dried red chilies, garlic, and onions. Grind them into a smooth paste and spread it on the dosa before adding the masala.
- Thatte Idli: These soft and fluffy idlis are a popular breakfast option in Bangalore. To make thatte idli, prepare a batter with rice and urad dal. Pour the batter into greased plates and steam until cooked. Serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Neer Dosa: A thin and lacy dosa made with rice batter. To make neer dosa, soak rice for a few hours and grind it into a smooth batter. Add water to thin the batter and make it runny. Pour a ladleful of batter on a hot tawa and spread it into a thin dosa. Cook until crispy and serve hot with coconut chutney.
- Akki Roti: A popular Karnataka dish made with rice flour, onions, and spices. To make akki roti, mix rice flour with water, onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, and spices. Knead the mixture into a soft dough and divide it into balls. Flatten each ball into a thin roti and cook on a hot tawa until golden brown. Serve hot with coconut chutney or pickle.
- Mysore Bonda: A crispy and fluffy deep-fried snack made with urad dal and spices. To make mysore bonda, soak urad dal for a few hours and grind it into a smooth paste. Add spices, onions, and coriander leaves to the batter and mix well. Heat oil in a deep pan and drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and serve hot with coconut chutney.
Bangalore’s Unique Food Experiences
Apart from the delicious food, Bangalore also offers some unique food experiences that are worth exploring. One such experience is the famous Bangalore Food Walk. Organized by various food enthusiasts, this guided tour takes you on a culinary journey through the streets of Bangalore. You get to taste a variety of street foods and learn about the history and culture behind each dish. The food walk is a great way to explore the hidden gems of Bangalore’s food scene and discover new flavors.
Another unique food experience in Bangalore is the concept of “food trucks.” These mobile restaurants are gaining popularity in the city and offer a wide range of cuisines on wheels. From burgers and pizzas to kebabs and biryanis, you can find it all in these food trucks. The vibrant and lively atmosphere of the food truck parks makes it a perfect place to hang out with friends and enjoy some delicious food.
Conclusion: Bangalore as a Foodie Paradise
In conclusion, Bangalore is truly a foodie paradise. The city’s rich and diverse culinary offerings cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re a fan of street food and traditional dishes or have a knack for the culinary arts in the kitchen, Bangalore has something to offer to every palate. From the iconic Masala Dosas to the flavorful Biryani, the city’s food scene is a treat for your taste buds. So make sure to indulge in the gastronomic delights that this city has to offer. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!