June 24, 2023
Written By: J.Couch
Every year the Highland neighborhood area just north of downtown Denver hosts a street fair with live music, shopping and of course food. Not sure how many years it has been going on but we have been a once before. We decided to check it out again this year, see some of the art and jewelry that has been created. As we looked around, we started to get hungry, but we didn’t see a lot of vegan food options. We did however know of Himchuli, a hidden gem of Indian & Nepali Cuisine nestled in vibrant Highland area. We have been there in the past and knew that they did offer quite a few vegan options. Maybe more if you were to ask specifically for the vegan or plant-based dishes. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat lover, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. They have a nice seating setup in the front parking area, so we were able to sit outside, and people watch all that were there to enjoy the street fair.
First off, we ordered the vegetable samosas. Crispy golden pastries embraced a fragrant medley of finely spiced potatoes, peas, and aromatic herbs. With each bite, the delicate crunch revealed a symphony of flavors, marrying the earthy sweetness of potatoes with the subtle warmth of Indian spices. It also comes with a couple of the chutney sauces that are delicious to dip them in.
Second, the chana masala always seems to be our go to dish, it’s simple and tastes good. The chana masala is bursting with rich flavors and a comforting aroma, this classic Indian dish does not disappoint. A vibrant blend of chickpeas simmered in a tantalizing tomato-based gravy, harmonized with a robust blend of fragrant spices. The tender chickpeas embraced the tangy notes of tomatoes and the enticing heat of the spices. It comes with a dish of rice that you can smother with the masala.
No Indian meal would be complete without the ever-present and essential companion—roti bread, which is a good vegan bread option. Normally this is a fresh, warm, and pillowy-soft flatbread but this version seems to be a lot crispier. There are a few other Indian places around town that I think server softer Roti Bread which we like. However, this did serve as the perfect vessel for savoring every morsel of the aromatic chana masala. The subtle char and inviting aroma elevated this simple bread into an essential component of our delectable meal.
Himchuli is an awe-inspiring exploration of flavors, textures, and traditions. From the first flaky bite of the vegetable samosa to the last satisfying dip of roti bread, our taste buds were transported to the vibrant streets of India. Their dedication to authentic flavors, meticulous preparation, and warm hospitality provided a great experience.
If you find yourself in Denver’s Highland area craving a vegan culinary adventure, Himchuli beckons with open arms and an abundance of tantalizing dishes. We did see that they have a flier on their door that said they were having a vegan Tuesday, maybe something that we will have to check out in the near future.
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
