Fushka Cart Battles
It’s quite fascinating to discover how the street food scene has transformed right along 37th Ave between 73rd and 75th Street in Jackson Heights. What makes this section of town a battle ground? National street food delicacy of Bangladesh is quite a nostalgic attraction for people from Bangladesh and curious foodies from in and around the Tri State Area. College students, Taxi Drivers, Families and Tourists take the trip from the suburbs and neighboring boroughs to satisfy their craving of these bite sized crunchy shells. Each are filled with soft mash of chickpeas cooked in a masala blend along with onion, cilantro, green chilies and a pour over of tangy, sweet & spice flavored water that acts as a sauce. It’s topped with shredded boiled egg that adds to its many layers of flavor. For only seven dollars you get eight of these shells that could be shared. If you're hungry it could be devoured in a few bites. Some of the carts serve a sweetened black milk tea, Chai, to top off your culinary experience.
About 5 years back there was probably one of these carts serving Fushka. The shear volume of people from South Asian backgrounds that come to town during the week into the weekend has created a Fushka cart rush. I call it the Fushka Lane. There are seven carts serving this popular Bengali Street Food just along one block. There are more of these carts around the block totaling to about 10 in total serving the same exact option as its star menu item. Each cart show case its variation of spice to tang to sweet to salty ratio. I think each cart brings its own a unique flavor. They try to create an edge in their preparation with an extra spice or crunch or sweetness factor. Some have even added creative options like shot cups of these crunch balls with different varieties of sauces.
Some of these carts have a hype man that try to over sell these humble fried puris made of whole wheat, Atta, and semolina flour. It’s quite the scene especially in the evenings to see groups of friends and family enjoying this delicacy. It has become quite the tourist attraction. Which is the best tasting one? You will have to come experience it yourself. Get some friends together get one from each cart and taste the difference. Take a tour of Queens and stop by Jackson Heights. If you need a guide to take you to best cart in my opinion book a tour with me. I can walk you to my favorite Fushka spots and introduce you to other street food gems in the area.
