Street Foods That Cross Culinary Borders

Jan7,2025

Resembling the Sambousek of the Middle East, this deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat is a shared delight.  

Samosa (India & Middle East)  

Originating in Tibet, these dumplings are akin to Chinese dim sum and are now a beloved Indian street food. 

Momos (India & Tibet/China) 

The spicy mashed vegetable curry served with buttered bread has echoes of the American Sloppy Joe sandwich. 

Pav Bhaji (India & Sloppy Joe, USA)  

Similar to Zulbia or Chebakia in the Middle East and North Africa, this deep-fried, sugar-soaked treat connects cultures with its sweetness. 

Jalebi (India & Middle East/North Africa)  

Comparable to Mexico’s *Tostadas* or *Chalupas*, both feature a crispy base with tangy toppings or fillings.  

Pani Puri (India & Mexico) 

Indian flatbread rolls stuffed with kebabs, vegetables, and sauces are reminiscent of Middle Eastern Shawarma wraps.  

Kathi Roll (India & Shawarma, Middle East)  

The South Indian dosa shares a resemblance with French crepes in texture and preparation, though it’s spicier and made of fermented rice and lentils

Dosa (India & Crepes, France)  

The combination of spiced chickpeas and bread finds parallels in falafel wraps from the Middle East. 

Chole Bhature (India & Middle Eastern Falafel Wraps)

Known as the Indian burger, this Mumbai street staple has a deep-fried potato patty inside a bread bun, much like its American counterpart.  

Vada Pav (India & Burgers, USA)