Litti Chokha is the quintessential Bihari-Banarasi dish, a rustic and hearty meal that has been a staple of Varanasi food culture for generations. The litti is a round, baked wheat ball stuffed with spiced sattu (roasted gram flour), while chokha is a smoky mixture of roasted eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes. Together, they form a meal that is both nutritious and deeply satisfying. In Varanasi, the best litti chokha is found at small roadside stalls and family-run shops where the recipe has been perfected over decades.
Key Takeaways
- What Makes Varanasi Litti Chokha Special
- Best Litti Chokha Shops
What Makes Varanasi Litti Chokha Special
The Varanasi version of litti chokha uses a unique blend of spices and a specific technique of baking on coal. The litti is first boiled and then roasted on hot coals until the outer shell is crispy and the inner filling is aromatic. The chokha is made by roasting eggplant and potatoes over an open flame, then mashing them with raw onions, green chilies, and mustard oil. The smoky flavor of the chokha pairs perfectly with the crunchy litti.
Best Litti Chokha Shops
Some of the best litti chokha shops include Kashi Litti Bhandar near Godowlia, which has been serving since 1975. Their litti costs ₹60-80 per plate with unlimited chokha. The famous Litti Chokha Wala near Assi Ghat serves a spicy version with ₹70-90 per plate. For a budget option, try the street vendors near Dashashwamedh Ghat for ₹40-60 per plate. Most shops operate from 4 PM to 10 PM, with peak hours between 6 PM and 9 PM.
Kashi Litti Bhandar
Godowlia, ₹60-80/plate, since 1975
Litti Chokha Wala
Assi Ghat, ₹70-90/plate, spicy
Dashashwamedh Street Vendors
₹40-60/plate, budget option
Quick Tips
Best litti chokha at Kashi Litti Bhandar (₹60-80). Try street vendors near Dashashwamedh (₹40-60). Order with extra mustard oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
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