Top 5 Must-Try Foods in Bangalore, India
Lily AndersonIndia, a country known for its rich history and diverse culture, is also a paradise for food lovers. And when it comes to food, Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is no exception. I've had the pleasure of exploring this vibrant city and its culinary delights, and I'm thrilled to share with you my top 5 must-try foods in Bangalore. Each dish is a unique blend of flavors, reflecting the city's cosmopolitan culture and its deep-rooted traditions.
1. Bisi Bele Bath at Lalbagh Botanical Garden
My first stop was the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling city. After a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery, I found myself at a quaint little eatery serving Bisi Bele Bath, a traditional Karnataka dish.
The Dish
Bisi Bele Bath, which translates to 'hot lentil rice', is a hearty dish made with rice, lentils, and a medley of vegetables. It's seasoned with a special spice blend and garnished with fried cashews and coriander leaves. The result is a dish that's spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet, all at once.
The Experience
Eating Bisi Bele Bath while surrounded by the serene beauty of Lalbagh was an experience in itself. The dish was warm and comforting, and the flavors were perfectly balanced.
"Bisi Bele Bath is comfort food at its best. It's a dish that warms your heart and fills your stomach."
2. Masala Dosa at Bengaluru Palace
Next, I headed to the majestic Bengaluru Palace, where I was greeted by the enticing aroma of Masala Dosa from a nearby restaurant.
The Dish
Masala Dosa, a staple in South Indian cuisine, is a thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It's filled with a spicy potato mixture and served with coconut chutney and sambar, a lentil soup.
The Experience
The Masala Dosa was crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and the potato filling was perfectly spiced. Eating it while admiring the grandeur of Bengaluru Palace made the experience even more memorable.
"Masala Dosa is a symphony of flavors and textures. It's a dish that you'll crave long after you've finished eating it."
3. Mangalore Buns at Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace
After exploring the historic Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, I found a small café serving Mangalore Buns, a dish I was eager to try.
The Dish
Mangalore Buns, despite their name, are actually sweet, fluffy puris made from banana and flour. They're deep-fried to golden perfection and served with coconut chutney.
The Experience
The Mangalore Buns were sweet, soft, and incredibly delicious. Paired with the spicy coconut chutney, they made for a delightful snack.
"Mangalore Buns are a sweet surprise. They're the perfect blend of sweet and savory, and they're incredibly addictive."
4. Ragi Mudde at Bengaluru Fort
My next stop was Bengaluru Fort, where I tried Ragi Mudde, a traditional Karnataka dish.
The Dish
Ragi Mudde, also known as finger millet balls, is a simple dish made from ragi flour and water. It's usually served with sambar or a spicy meat curry.
The Experience
Ragi Mudde was unlike anything I've ever tasted. It was slightly bland on its own, but when paired with the spicy sambar, it was absolutely delicious.
"Ragi Mudde is a humble dish with a unique texture. It's a testament to the simplicity and brilliance of traditional Indian cuisine."
5. Obbattu at Cubbon Park
My culinary journey ended at Cubbon Park, where I tried Obbattu, a sweet dish that's a must-try in Bangalore.
The Dish
Obbattu, also known as Puran Poli in other parts of India, is a sweet flatbread filled with a mixture of jaggery and lentils. It's usually served warm with a dollop of ghee.
The Experience
Obbattu was the perfect end to my culinary adventure. It was sweet, rich, and absolutely divine.
"Obbattu is a sweet treat that's not to be missed. It's a dish that leaves you with a sweet taste and sweeter memories."
My journey through Bangalore was a feast for the senses. Each dish I tried was a culinary masterpiece, reflecting the city's rich culture and tradition. So, when you find yourself in Bangalore, make sure to try these dishes. They're not just food, they're an experience.