New York City’s street food scene is a melting pot of global flavors, where you can indulge in everything from falafels and gyros to miso soup and dosas. In addition to being absolutely delicious, many of these foods also pack a powerful punch of probiotics. Probiotics are the healthy bacteria in your gut that support digestive health and enhance nutrient absorption.
When most people hear the word “probiotics”, their first thought is yogurt. While it’s true that yogurt is a good source of probiotics, it is not the only one! Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet doesn’t have to be limited to plain yogurt and boring foods. NYC’s diverse street food scene offers a delicious way to keep your gut happy while exploring the world, one bite at a time!
In addition to including probiotic-rich foods in your diet, you can also take a probiotic supplement but be warned that not all supplements are equally good. First, consult with your doctor, then compare the top probiotics that have been reviewed by independent experts so that you can find one that suits your needs and your budget. That said, let’s look at some of NYC’s tastiest street foods that contain probiotics that boost gut health.
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Kimchi
Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish that goes back over 3,000 years! This vegetable dish is made with napa cabbage, Korean radish, carrots, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. The fermentation process gives kimchi a tangy and sour taste while the chili peppers and carrots make it sweet and spicy. Fusion treats such as kimchi tacos from food trucks or the savory kimchi pancake from Bulgogi & Kimchi Street Cart are perfect for a quick and gut-friendly snack. These are just two of the many ways to enjoy New York’s street food with optimal digestive health.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
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Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut was brought to the city by German immigrants in the 19th century and today, it is a staple in New York City’s street food culture, thanks to its tangy flavor and versatility. It is a key topping for classic hot dogs sold by street vendors as it adds a zesty crunch that enhances the savory taste of the sausages. This tangy, fermented cabbage not only delivers a burst of flavor but also provides gut-friendly probiotics. Next time you grab a hot dog, don’t shy away from loading it up with sauerkraut for a digestive boost. You can find some great sauerkraut at places like Katz’s Delicatessen.
Watch this video:
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Miso
Miso is considered a newcomer to New York City’s street food scene but is quickly gaining popularity. Originating from Japan, this warm broth made with fermented soybean paste, tofu, seaweed, and scallions provides a quick, flavorful boost for busy New Yorkers. Food trucks and street vendors now serve miso soup in eco-friendly cups, which makes it the perfect choice when you’re seeking a light, healthy snack on the go. In addition to the traditional miso soup, many vendors also include it in fusion foods such as miso ramen burgers or miso-marinated fried chicken. For more tips – read this. You can find lots of miso dishes at Smorgasburg in Brooklyn.
Watch this video of MisoMoon at Smorgasburg:
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Lassi
From the streets of India to the food carts of NYC, lassi has made its mark as a cooling and nutritious drink. Made with yogurt, lassi is rich in probiotics that support a healthy gut. Whether sweet or salty, it’s a perfect companion to spicy street food, especially Indian street food like kati roll, chicken tikka pao or Parsi beef keema pao. The creamy texture of lassi also helps to soothe your burning mouth after a particularly hot meal! On a hot day, you can stop by Monsieur Singh Lassi Pops on the block between 23rd & 24th St which sells the frozen version of lassi.
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Tzatziki sauce
Tzatziki sauce, with its creamy, tangy, and refreshing flavor, has become a popular addition to several street foods in New York City, particularly those with Mediterranean and Greek influences. Made from Greek yogurt, Tzatziki is chock full of beneficial probiotics. This sauce is used in everything from gyros and Souvlaki to falafel wraps and Greek fries. Many street food vendors also have Mediterranean bowls with a rice base with mixed meats and fresh veggies topped with a generous serving of tzatziki. For example, the Halal Guys offer great tzatziki sauce. Watch this video:
So, the next time you’re roaming the streets of New York, keep an eye out for these probiotic-packed street foods. Your taste buds (and your gut) will thank you!
Jennifer Bell is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey.
