Popular Street Food in Ooty: A Taste of the Hills
Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is a beautiful hill station in Tamil Nadu, known for its scenic views, cool climate, and lush green tea estates. However, the charm of Ooty doesn’t just lie in its picturesque landscape; it also offers a variety of delicious street food that reflects the culture of the town. The street food scene in Ooty is vibrant, with several unique and mouthwatering options that locals and tourists both enjoy.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular street foods you must try when visiting Ooty.
1. Chaat – A Burst of Flavors
Chaat is one of the most common street foods you can find in many parts of India, and Ooty is no exception. Stalls serving chaat offer a range of tangy and spicy dishes that are perfect for a quick snack. In Ooty, the fresh ingredients and cool weather give chaat a different taste compared to what you would experience elsewhere.
Pani Puri is one of the most popular chaat options here. The crispy puris filled with tangy tamarind water and spicy mashed potatoes create an explosion of flavors in your mouth. Vendors often make them fresh, right in front of you, which adds to the overall experience.
You can also find Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri, and Sev Puri, all equally delicious and loved by locals. The balance of spices, chutneys, and crunchy textures make chaat a favorite among food lovers in Ooty.
2. Varkey – Ooty’s Own Delight
Ooty has its unique take on baked goods, and one of the most popular local snacks is Varkey. This crispy, flaky biscuit is often enjoyed with tea, which is fitting since Ooty is also famous for its tea plantations.
Varkey has a light and crumbly texture, with a slightly sweet taste that makes it irresistible. Vendors and bakeries in Ooty prepare it fresh every day, and you can often see locals buying it by the dozen. It’s also a popular item for tourists to take back home as a souvenir.
If you’re visiting Ooty, make sure to pair Varkey with a cup of locally brewed tea for the perfect mid-afternoon snack.
3. Momoo – The Local Version of Momos
Though Ooty has its share of traditional South Indian food, the influence of Tibetan culture is also visible in its street food scene. One of the most popular Tibetan-inspired street foods in Ooty is Momos, or as some locals call them, Momoo.
These steamed dumplings are filled with either vegetables or meat and served with spicy chutney. The cold weather in Ooty makes these warm, soft dumplings even more enjoyable. You can find momos at various stalls around the town, especially near popular tourist spots like the Botanical Gardens and Ooty Lake.
Momos in Ooty are often served with two types of chutneys – one that is spicy and another that has a mild, tangy flavor. The dumplings are light, yet filling, making them a great option for both a snack and a quick meal.
4. Ooty Chocolates – A Sweet Indulgence
Ooty is well-known for its homemade chocolates, which have become a major part of the street food culture. Almost every corner of the town has small shops and stalls selling a variety of chocolates, ranging from milk chocolate to dark chocolate and everything in between.
One of the best things about Ooty chocolates is the sheer variety available. You can find flavors like Almond Chocolate, Fruit and Nut Chocolate, Mint Chocolate, and even Spicy Chocolate! The chocolates are rich and creamy, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them incredibly satisfying.
These homemade chocolates are usually made by local families or small businesses, which gives them a fresh, homemade taste that sets them apart from commercial brands. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to buy a box of Ooty chocolates before you leave the town.
5. Mushroom Biryani – A Unique Twist
Biryani is a popular dish all over India, but in Ooty, you’ll find a unique version that highlights the region’s agricultural produce – Mushroom Biryani. The hill station has the perfect climate for mushroom farming, and the locals have embraced it as a staple in their cuisine.
The mushroom biryani in Ooty is flavorful, aromatic, and slightly different from traditional biryani. Instead of meat, the dish uses fresh, locally grown mushrooms, which give it a soft, earthy flavor. The spices used are not overpowering, allowing the natural taste of the mushrooms to shine through. Served with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) and pickles, this dish is a must-try for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.
You can find mushroom biryani at various food stalls and small eateries around the town. It is a filling and satisfying meal, perfect after a day of exploring Ooty’s scenic spots.
6. Sweet Corn – A Simple and Popular Snack
Another street food item that is widely available in Ooty is Sweet Corn. Vendors sell hot, steaming corn on the cob, which they roast over an open flame. They then sprinkle it with salt, chili powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice, creating a simple yet flavorful snack.
The cool weather in Ooty makes hot sweet corn a popular choice among tourists. Whether you’re strolling around Ooty Lake or exploring the local markets, grabbing a cob of sweet corn is a quick and satisfying way to refuel.
Sweet corn is not only delicious but also healthy. The warmth and slight smokiness from the roasting process enhance the natural sweetness of the corn, making it a favorite for people of all ages.
7. South Indian Staples – Dosas and Idlis
While Ooty has a diverse street food scene, the town also stays true to its South Indian roots. You can find street vendors selling Dosas and Idlis, two popular South Indian dishes that are loved across the region.
Dosa is a thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice batter. It is usually served with coconut chutney and sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew). In Ooty, you can try different varieties of dosas, including Masala Dosa, which is filled with spicy mashed potatoes, and Onion Dosa, which is topped with finely chopped onions.
Idli, on the other hand, is a soft, steamed cake made from fermented rice and lentils. It is light, fluffy, and also served with chutney and sambar. Street vendors often sell idlis in the morning, making them a popular breakfast item in Ooty.