If you’ve ever wandered the bustling streets of Surat, chances are your senses were instantly hijacked by the spicy, tangy, buttery goodness wafting through the air. Welcome to the world of Surti snacks, where every bite is a love letter to Gujarat’s rich food culture. From soft, savory dumplings to sweet, ghee-soaked treats — here are five must-try dishes that define the street food soul of South Gujarat.
1. Locho – The Happy Accident Turned Iconic
Ah, Locho. This soft, squiggly, steamed delight is what happens when a farsan goes rogue — and we’re forever grateful it did. Born in Surat, this dish was actually a happy kitchen mishap that turned into a local legend. Made from gram flour (besan), it’s got a unique, loose texture that sets it apart from its cousin, the better-behaved Khaman.
But here’s the real magic: it’s topped with a generous drizzle of spicy oil or melted butter, a shower of sev, fresh coriander, onions, and sometimes even cheese. Every forkful is a messy, spicy, comforting bite of home — and trust me, Surti Locho is not just a dish, it’s a mood.
2. Ghari – Sweet, Rich, and Steeped in History
Let’s talk dessert — and not just any dessert. Ghari, also known as Surati Ghari, is a festive sweet that’s as indulgent as it gets. Think rich mawa (milk solids), ghee, and sugar, all wrapped in a puri-like dough and shaped into delicate orbs. Then come the flavors — pista, almond-cardamom, plain mawa — each one creamier and more decadent than the last.
Traditionally made for the festival of Chandani Padva, Ghari has roots going back to 1838, when it was made for freedom fighter Tatya Tope’s soldiers to boost energy. So yes, it’s basically edible history. And whether you’re eating it for strength, peace of soul, or just because your sweet tooth demanded it — Ghari never disappoints.
3. Khandvi – The Elegant Roll That Melts in Your Mouth
If you’re the type who appreciates precision in snacks, Khandvi is your soulmate. These silky yellow spirals are made from a smooth batter of gram flour and yogurt, cooked to the perfect consistency, then rolled like tiny scrolls of joy.
A typical Khandvi plate is topped with a sizzle of mustard seeds, grated coconut, coriander, and sometimes even garlic chutney if you’re lucky. It’s light, tangy, and elegant — basically the sari of snacks: graceful and timeless. Whether bought from a farsan shop or lovingly made at home, Khandvi is always a win.
4. Dabeli – The Kutch-born Burger with a Desi Twist
Meet Dabeli, the original Indian burger — but so much more. Originating from Mandvi in Kutch, this spicy-sweet street food legend features mashed spiced potatoes stuffed into a pav, slathered with tangy tamarind and fiery garlic chutneys. Then it’s loaded with crunchy peanuts, pomegranate pearls, and sev for that signature texture bomb.
The word “Dabeli” literally means “pressed” — and while that might sound humble, the flavor is anything but. Invented in the 1960s by Kesha Malam (a snack hero in his own right), Dabeli has gone from roadside wonder to national treasure. For the real deal, head to Kutch — but honestly, even a decent one anywhere will make your taste buds sing.
5. Khavsa – The Street Food With Burmese Soul
Last but definitely not least — Khavsa (also spelled Khausa or Khowsuey), is Surat’s take on Burmese fusion at its finest. Imagine a bowl of noodles swimming in rich, velvety coconut milk broth, topped with a medley of crispy, crunchy, spicy toppings. Sounds dreamy? It is.
You’ll find fried garlic, papdi, spring onions, coriander, lemon juice, chaat masala, and chutneys (sometimes even a spicy Schezwan twist) dancing together in this bowl. It’s warm, indulgent, and wildly flavorful — like hugging your taste buds with a fuzzy blanket.
Final Thoughts
From steamed and savory to sweet and soul-soothing, these Surti snacks are more than just food — they’re culture, comfort, and community rolled into one. So the next time you find yourself in Gujarat (or near a good Gujarati food stall), order these up and let your palate take a trip to the vibrant streets of Surat.
Hungry yet?