Tughlaqabad Fort, built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty in 1321, is not just a historical monument but also a testament to the rich culinary past of Delhi. The fort, now in ruins, stands near an area where travelers and locals alike can explore an array of Delhi's dynamic food culture which is a blend of its historical invaders and rulers including the Tughlaqs. As the influence of different cultures melded, the cuisine evolved to include a diverse range of flavors and techniques. Traditional meals that were likely enjoyed during the Tughlaq era consisted of a blend of Indian spices with Persian influences, but the present-day vicinity offers a diverse palette ranging from street food to fine dining experiences.
1. Chole Bhature (Veg): A North Indian classic, featuring spiced chickpeas with fluffy fried bread.
2. Paranthas (Veg): A variety of stuffed breads, commonly filled with potatoes, cauliflower, or paneer.
3. Butter Chicken (Non Veg): A popular Indian curry made with tender chicken in a rich tomato and cream sauce.
4. Biryani (Non Veg): A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and chicken or mutton (goat), often served with raita.
5. Dal Makhani (Veg): A creamy lentil dish simmered with butter and spices, a staple in North Indian cuisine.
6. Aloo Tikki (Veg): Fried potato patties served with various chutneys and chickpea curry.
7. Paneer Tikka (Veg): Marinated and grilled paneer (cottage cheese), served as a delectable appetizer.
8. Samosas (Veg): Triangular savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
9. Rajma (Veg): Kidney beans cooked in a thick tomato gravy, often enjoyed with rice.
10. Gulab Jamun (Veg): Soft, spongy balls made of milk solids soaked in a warm sweet syrup.
Karim's:
Address: 16, Gali Kababian, Jama Masjid, New Delhi
Famous Food: Mutton Korma (Non Veg), Chicken Jahangiri (Non Veg)
Al Bake:
Address: New Friends Colony, New Delhi
Famous Food: Shawarma (Non Veg), Falafel (Veg)
The Potbelly Rooftop Cafe:
Address: Shahpur Jat, Siri Fort, New Delhi
Famous Food: Bihari dishes like Litti Chokha (Veg), Mutton Champaran (Non Veg)
Saravana Bhavan:
Address: P-13, Connaught Circus, Connaught Place, New Delhi
Famous Food: Masala Dosa (Veg), Rava Kesari (Veg)
Naivedyam:
Address: Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi
Famous Food: South Indian Thali (Veg), Andhra Pradesh specialities (Veg)
Note: The addresses and restaurants are based on a general guide to the area and might not be in immediate proximity to Tughlaqabad Fort, as the fort itself is an ancient ruin, not a commercial or residential area.