There is a reason why the lane opposite to Jama Masjid in Old Delhi – Bazaar Matiya Mahal – is often called ‘Gastronomy Gali’ by foodies. This treasure trove of good eating places is a foodie’s paradise on any given day and the bar is raised by many notches during the month of Ramzan.
Located in the heart of the Walled City, this narrow, congested lane is a food connoisseur’s haven, especially at the night when the fasting ends and feasting begins.
The scene here at night is nothing less than that of a food festival, with tentalising aromas of delicacies wafting through the air.
From keema samosas to biryanis to hot jalebis, there is lip-smacking food at every corner here.
Here is a walk through this legendary street with a twist. How about giving the famous names a miss and trying out a few offbeat showstoppers.
Sharbat-e-Mohabbat: This refreshing pink concoction made of milk, Rooh
Afza and chunks of watermelon is ideal in this scorching heat.
Sheermaal with a twist: Unlike the regular sheermaal, which is a flat sweet
bread prepared with milk and saffron, this one is stuffed with dry fruits like
cashews, pistachios, and almonds. The dough is baked in tandoor and then
dipped thrice in desi ghee. No wonder, the shopkeeper calls it ‘Desi Pizza’.
Haleem: A non-vegetarian delicacy made from meat, lentils and rice, Haleem
has been igniting the taste buds since the Mughal era. The dish has inherited
the recipe from the Mughal era and is mainly served only during the Ramzan.
Ramzan snacks