Maharashtra is known for its delicious cuisine and its vibrant flavours. From the famous vada pav to gourmet seafood, Maharashtra has something for every taste. Let us embark on a gastronomic journey through Maharashtra and discover some popular local delicacies.
Bhakri – Bhakri is a traditional Indian flatbread made from flours like Jowar, Bajra, Wheat or Ragi. It is thicker than the traditional roti and is served with curries, vegetables chutneys and lentils. It is high in fibre content and is gluten-free, that makes it a healthy choice.
Puran Poli – Puran Poli is also a traditional sweet flatbread that is a stuffed with a mixture of gram flour and jaggery and is often flavoured with nutmeg, saffron and cardamom to enhance the flavours. Puran means, ‘stuffing’ and poli refers to ‘flatbread’ in Marathi. Puran poli is a staple during all religious festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi and Diwali.
Modak – Modak is a sweet dish offered to Lord Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi as prasad. Although this cherished delicacy is prepared in numerous ways, the most popular of these is Ukadiche Modak. It is made with jaggary and rice flour and ghee, along with jaggary, coconut, nutmeg and jaggery.
Vada Pav – Vada Pav is an iconic street food that is deeply embedded in the Maharashtrian culture and lifestyle. It consists of a deep-fried potato fritter kept within a lightly toasted bun, just like a burger. Served with a variety of chutneys, such as garlic chutney, tamarind chutney or mint chutney, vada pav can be found in every nook and corner of the state.
Sol Kadhi
Made from kokum and coconut milk, Sol Kadhi is a refreshing drink with a tangy flavor that aids in digestion and complements spicy Maharashtrian dishes. A must-try on hot days, this drink offers a unique taste of the Konkan coast.
6. Misal Pav
This spicy and tangy curry made from sprouted beans, topped with farsan (a crunchy snack mix) and served with pav (bread), is a beloved breakfast dish across Maharashtra. Misal pav is known for its bold flavors and heat, often enjoyed by those who like a spicy kick.
Maharashtrian cuisine is a blend of spicy ingredients and unique cooking techniques. From the fiery dishes of Kolhapur to the coastal delights from the Konkan region, the people of Maharashtra show a deep appreciation for local produce and their cooking is a balance of sweet, spicy, sour and tangy flavours that will surely tickle your palette.
