Sarah Todd

Kathakali: The Dance of Stories 🎭✨ With every gesture, expression, and movement, Kathakali brings ancient tales to life. This classical dance-drama of Kerala is a mesmerising blend of art, storytelling, and tradition—bold face paint, intricate costumes, and eyes that speak volumes without a single word. This performance left me in total awe. #Kathakali #Kerala #IncredibleIndia #India #art #dance

It’s been a dream of mine to visit the Golden Temple, and that finally came true. I felt an indescribable sense of peace and humility. #GoldenTemple #Amritsar

On the hunt for Suchi Puri in Jammu, we stumbled upon a brilliant family-run spot where the dad himself is still standing tall, serving up incredible dishes every day. What started as a search for the elusive Suchi Puri led us to a feast of local flavours and sides that blew us away! Suchi Puri was as special as we’d heard—fluffy, crispy. And the sides? Incredible! The Anardana Chutney is a delicious balance of sweet and tangy, with dried pomegranate seeds giving it a unique brightness. We tried Ouriya, a local potato dish tossed in mustard oil and yoghurt, spiced with cumin and chilli—simple yet bursting with flavour. And, of course, no meal here would be complete without Jammu Rajma, the region’s smaller, intensely flavorful beans cooked to perfection, and Jammu-style Chana, prepared with ginger, garlic, and mustard oil for that rich, bold taste. This spot was a true family affair, with generations’ worth of recipes and a warm, inviting vibe. Every bite felt like a taste of Jammu’s heart and soul! 🇮🇳 #JammuStreetFood #SuchiPuri #jammu #breadsofindia #indianstreetfood #jammufood #IndianFood

All aboard the most luxurious train ride in South India—the @GoldenChariotOfficial! 🚂✨ From the moment you step onto its opulent carriages, it’s a journey like no other. Think indulgent meals served in vintage dining cars, dreamy cabins and every corner filled with a touch of royal elegance. But the magic doesn’t stop on board—this train makes stops at ancient temples, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural gems. It’s not just travel; it’s an experience that seamlessly blends history, luxury, and adventure. Trust me, this is how you do South India in style. 💛🌴 Who’s hopping on next?

Jammu’s landscape is as rich and layered as this amazing Patte Wale Rajma Chawal topped with paneer and that tangy khatta masala synonymous with Dogra cuisine! Here, they’ve taken classic Jammu-style Rajma Chawal to a whole new level by adding creamy paneer, which I love for that extra protein hit. And the rajma here? They’re smaller, with a slightly different flavour than the larger beans you find across the North, thanks to the fertile soil of Jammu’s lush valleys. But it’s not just the food—it’s the energy of Rakesh, the guy cooking, that makes this spot unforgettable. He’s a whirlwind of warmth and energy, greeting every customer with a smile, shouting out orders with pure enthusiasm, and moving fast to serve each plate with a generous spirit. Watching him in action, you feel like you’re part of something special. Topped with khatta masala, chutney, onions, and green chilli, each bite is a mix of tang, warmth, and spice that hits all the right notes. And let me tell you—the hustle at this place is real. If you want to find it search for Rakesh Kaladi Kulcha! People are lined up, all waiting to get their fix of this dish, and Rakesh’s energy adds to the excitement. There’s something about the crowd, the bustle, and finally holding that plate piled with rajma, rice, and paneer that makes it taste even better. It’s like tasting the heart of Jammu in one unforgettable bite! #jammu #streetfood #India #Paneer #RajmaChawal #IndianStreetfood #JammuStreetfood #cheese #food

Kerala’s Puttu and Kadala Curry: Episode 3 of Street Foods of India ✨🌴 Kerala, you’ve stolen my heart again with your soulful food! 🌴✨ Puttu with Kadala Curry is the ultimate comfort dish—soft, fluffy layers of steamed rice flour and coconut paired with a bold, spiced kala chana curry. Every bite is a hug from God’s Own Country. 💚 Get the recipe here: https://sarahtodd.com.au/blogs/recipes/keralas-puttu-and-kadala-curry #StreetFoodsOfIndia #streetfood #India #Kerala

Could this be my new favourite street food? 🤯 Kalari Kulcha from Jammu. Kalari cheese 🤤 often called the ‘mozzarella of Jammu served in Jammu’s kulcha, which is fluffy and pillowy, unlike the usual North Indian flatbread. This local cheese is seared on a tawa until it forms a crispy, golden crust while staying gooey and stretchy inside. Stuffed with onions, grilled Kalari, and a spicy chutney kick, each bite is an explosion of flavours and textures that’s impossible to resist. And having this at Sadar Ji Di Hatti in Jammu’s beautiful, winding streets—where every corner has its own charm, colour, and life—makes it even better. The small lanes, vibrant energy, and warmth of the locals make discovering Kalari Kulcha feel like finding a piece of Jammu’s heart, one unforgettable bite at a time. #jammu #streetfood #India #kalari #kulcha #JammuStreetfood #cheese #food

Ever had a chaat so good it made you rethink your favourites? I’m on the hunt for the best chaat. At Garg Chaat, the classic Dahi Bhalla gets a crispy upgrade with perfectly golden papdi, and I am here for it. The soft, melt-in-your-mouth bhallas paired with the crunch of papdi? It’s the ultimate texture love story. Add in the creamy yogurt, tangy chutneys, and that perfect sprinkle of masala, and you’ve got a dish that hits every note. ✨🥄 #chandigarh #streetfood #india

The Best Lassi I’ve Ever Had! 🥛✨ The legendary Pede Wali Lassi from Giani’s Punjabi Lassi in Amritsar, and trust me, it’s on a whole other level. Watching the process is mesmerising—technical, intricate, and so full of care. Each glass is a masterpiece, with freshly churned malai (cream) floating on top and chunks of rich pede transformed into creamy butter that melts every sip. Thick, indulgent, and bursting with flavour, the ultimate lassi experience captures the essence of Punjab’s love for food. If you’re in Amritsar, this is an absolute must-try. You’ll thank me later! 🥛❤️ #Amritsar #India #streetfood #AmritsarFood #punjab #punjabfood #lassi

Let’s talk about Amritsari Kulcha. This isn’t your average bread—it’s stuffed with incredible flavours, topped with carrom seeds (ajwain if you’re fancy), baked in the tandoor until golden perfection and drenched in ghee. And that crunch at the end? Yep, they smack it just right before serving. It’s not like any other kulcha I’ve had in any other state in India. Let’s not forget the chole—bold, earthy, and perfectly spiced to balance out the buttery richness. Then there’s the tangy onion dip, the zesty sidekick that ties it together at Pehalwan Kulcha. Pro tip: Forget plates. Hands only. Tear, dip, repeat. I’d literally travel for this kind of food. 🫓✨💥 #Amritsar #AmritsarStreetfood #AmritsarFood #PunjabiFood #Kulcha

Gujarat’s Rasawala Khaman: Episode 4 of Street Foods of India ✨ Get the recipe here: https://www.sarahtodd.com.au/blogs/recipes/rasawala-khaman-gujarat This iconic dish transforms soft, fluffy khaman into something magical. Crumbled, tempered, and soaked in a bold, spiced rassa. Topped with crunchy sev, it’s a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and comforting flavours. It's a true Gujarati classic that shows how leftovers can be pure genius! 💛 #StreetFoodsOfIndia #streetfood #India #Gujarat #RasawalaKhaman

Chandigarh food diaries: I’ve been eating my way through old and new dishes lately—Sarson ka Saag, smoky Baigan ka Bharta, buttery Makki di Roti—and let me tell you, trying to nail the names with this Aussie twang? Let’s just say it’s been entertaining. But this meal is extra special. Sarson ka Saag was one of the very first authentic dishes I learned from my son’s Bibi Gian, an incredible cook whose recipes carry so much heart and history. And the Makki di Roti? It was a first for me, and now I get why it’s a classic. It’s earthy and buttery, and it’s the perfect partner to the saag. Here at Old Pal Dhaba, the vibes are pure magic, the food is a warm hug for your tastebuds, and yes, I’m returning for seconds. Now tell me: what dish could you eat on repeat, name struggles and all? 🍃🍲✨ #chandigarh #streetfood #india

When Chef Vikas Khanna says a place is good, you listen. And when it’s Brijwasi Chaat serving their famous Bun Tikki, you run. A crispy, golden aloo tikki tucked inside a buttery, toasted bun, smothered in chutneys that pack a tangy, spicy punch. Add a sprinkle of fresh onions and a hit of chaat masala, “Move over burgers, this is the OG bun game.” And honestly? If it’s good enough for @vikaskhannagroup, it’s good enough for anyone ✨ #Amritsar #India #streetfood #AmritsarFood #punjab #punjabfood

Waking Up at 4:30 am for Harissa & Noon Chai. There’s something magical about waking up before dawn in Kashmir, with the chill in the air so crisp you can see the steam of your breath. Harissa is pure comfort food. Slow-cooked mutton simmered for hours with fragrant spices until smooth and is served with a sizzle of piping-hot mustard oil. Paired with Noon Chai, the warm, pink, salted tea that’s so uniquely Kashmiri made it even more special. As I sipped the chai, savouring each bite of Harissa while the first light of day crept over the valley, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for moments like these—where flavour, culture, and the beauty of a new morning come together so perfectly. #Kashmir #Harissa #NoonChai #KashmiriFood #Streetfood

Chak de Phatte! ☀️ Aren’t these kids just the cutest? Their smiles are as bright as the energy in Amritsar! The warmth, happiness, and inviting spirit of the people here make this city feel like a big, welcoming hug. Amritsar knows how to bring energy, whether sharing a laugh, soaking in the lively atmosphere or always hunting for the perfect bread. #Amritsar #India #streetfood #AmritsarFood #punjab #punjabfood

Kashmir, I’m back, and what a way to kick off my trip! 🎉 A quick cooking session and selling mounji gaadh|fish pakodas with a vendor on the beautiful Dal Lake—talk about a warm welcome! The stall owner even handed me the reins to try my hand at selling, it was so much fun! These fish pakodas are next-level—fresh, crispy, and perfectly spiced, made right there on the lake. The energy, the smiles, and the incredible flavours are everything I love about being here! ❤️🍴 #Kashmir #DalLake #StreetFood #IncredibleIndia #KashmirFood #KashmirStreetfood

Bihar’s Litti Chokha: Episode 2 of Street Foods of India ✨🔥 Smokey flames, buttery ghee, and the boldest flavours of Bihar—all wrapped up in this iconic duo. Golden littis stuffed with spiced sattu, charred to perfection, and paired with fiery chokha and tangy roasted tomato chutney. It’s rustic, it’s soulful, and it’s street food at its finest. Bite in, and taste the heart of India. 🫶 Want the full recipe? https://www.sarahtodd.com.au/blogs/recipes/ #StreetFoodsOfIndia #streetfood #India #Bihar

Today, Mubarak Mandi Palace stands as a breathtaking reminder of the past—a place where the beauty in the ruins tells the story of the Dogra dynasty, rulers of Jammu and Kashmir for nearly two centuries. Stepping into this incredible complex feels like traveling back in time. The palace once served as the seat of power, with grand halls, intricate carvings, and a stunning blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European architecture. Here, maharajas and queens made decisions that shaped Jammu’s history, their love for art and culture still evident in every corner. Set on a hill alongside the bank of the Tawi River, the palace offers panoramic views of Jammu, adding to its charm. #incredibleindia #jammu #indianhistory #travel

Goa, you’ve been my second home for 11 years. I’ve been inspired by your beaches, markets, and flavours as I watched my son grow from a mischievous 2-year-old to the adventurer he is today. Today, I’m bringing a piece of Goa to my kitchen with Ros Omelette—spicy, soulful, and the kind of #streetfood that hugs you from the inside out. Here’s how to make this iconic dish, no matter where you are. Ros Omelette Recipe Xacuti Masala: • 50ml Neutral Oil • 30g Coriander seeds • ½ inch Cinnamon stick • 2 tsp Jeera, 2 tsp Fennel • 6-8 Black Peppercorns, 4 Cardamom • 6 Dry Red Chillies (spicy & Bedgi) • 2-4 Cloves, 2 Onions (sliced) • 1 cup Coconut (grated), 1 inch Ginger • 12 Garlic Cloves, 1 tsp Haldi Sauté spices in oil until fragrant. Add onions, garlic, ginger, and turmeric. Cook until onions soften. Add coconut, sauté, calm, and blend to a paste. Xacuti Curry: • 500g Chicken on the bone • ½ tsp Haldi, Salt, 2 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste • 1 tbsp Oil, 2 Onions (sliced), Xacuti Paste Sauté onions, add marinated chicken, and cook for 5 minutes. Add Xacuti paste, cook for 8 minutes, add water, and simmer until chicken is tender. Omelette: • 3 Eggs, 2 tbsp Onion (chopped), 1 Green Chilli, 1 tbsp Coriander Whisk ingredients and cook golden on both sides. To Serve: Pour the curry over the omelette and garnish with onions, coriander, and lime. Serve with poee or puris. This dish is #Goa in every bite—spicy, hearty, and nostalgic. 🌴🍳 #streetfoodsofIndia #Recipe #cooking #food

Chai’s of India Episode 1 - Kashmiri Kahwa This fragrant, golden-hued brew, typically made with a blend of saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, sweetened with honey or sugar, and garnished with crushed almonds, is a warming and aromatic drink served during special occasions, celebrations, and as a gesture of hospitality. What makes it truly special to Kashmir is the saffron, grown in the lush Pampore fields, and the use of warming spices that reflect the region’s cool climate and rich culinary heritage. Let me tell you, having Kashmiri Kahwa at Chai Jai is a vibe! Sitting in this quaint spot, sunlight pours through these gorgeous Victorian windows, and the interiors are so dreamy. Traditionally, Kahwa doesn’t include green tea—it’s all about the spices and saffron. However, some places, like Chai Jai, have added a modern twist by infusing green tea leaves for a light, earthy depth. They’ve even topped it with gulkand (rose petal jam), which adds a subtle floral sweetness, taking the drink to a whole new level. #Kashmir #KashmirTea #KahwaVibes #ChaisOfIndia