What are the famous local foods to try in Darjeeling?

Here are ten famous local foods to try in Darjeeling, along with brief descriptions of how they are prepared, where to eat them, and what they are typically eaten with:

Momos:

Momos are dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, typically served steamed or fried. They are commonly eaten with spicy tomato-based dipping sauce. You can find them at local street food stalls and restaurants like Kunga Restaurant.

Thukpa:

Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup with vegetables, meat (usually chicken or beef), and sometimes eggs. It’s flavored with ginger, garlic, and various spices. Enjoy Thukpa at Glenary’s or Sonam’s Kitchen.

Aloo Dum:

Aloo Dum is a spicy potato curry dish cooked with whole spices, tomatoes, and onions. It’s often served with puris (deep-fried bread) or steamed rice. Sample Aloo Dum at Keventer’s or Shangri La Restaurant.

Churpee:

Churpee is a traditional Himalayan cheese made from yak’s milk. It’s often eaten as a snack, either plain or flavored with spices. You can find Churpee at local markets or specialty shops like Golden Tips Tea Lounge.

Sel Roti:

Sel Roti is a traditional Nepali rice doughnut that’s sweet and slightly crispy on the outside. It’s often served as a snack or breakfast item. Enjoy Sel Roti with a cup of hot tea at Glenary’s or Kunga Restaurant.

Gundruk:

Gundruk is a fermented leafy green vegetable dish, usually made from mustard greens or spinach. It’s tangy and flavorful and often served as a side dish with rice and lentils (dal). You can try Gundruk at local Nepali restaurants like Dekevas Restaurant.

Chhurpi Soup:

Chhurpi Soup is a traditional Himalayan soup made from Chhurpi cheese, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It’s hearty and nutritious, often served with Tibetan bread or rice. Sample Chhurpi Soup at Sonam’s Kitchen or Kunga Restaurant.

Phaley:

Phaley are deep-fried bread stuffed with minced meat (usually lamb or chicken) and spices. They’re crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside. Enjoy Phaley with a side of spicy tomato chutney at local eateries like Hot Stimulating Cafe.

Sael Roti:

Sael Roti is a traditional Nepali sweet bread made from rice flour. It’s deep-fried to perfection and has a crispy texture. It’s often served as a snack or dessert, especially during festivals. You can find Sael Roti at local bakeries or street food stalls.

Chhang:

Chhang is a traditional Himalayan alcoholic beverage made from fermented millet or barley. It’s mildly alcoholic and has a slightly sour taste. Enjoy Chhang at local bars or guesthouses, especially in the rural areas surrounding Darjeeling.

These dishes offer a taste of the rich culinary heritage of Darjeeling and the surrounding Himalayan region, blending Nepali, Tibetan, and Indian influences.