Ready to dive into the flavoursome world of Maharashtrian cuisine? Whether you’re a spice lover or have a sweet tooth, Maharashtra has something to offer every palate. This sprawling state is not just about Bollywood and beaches; it’s a paradise for food lovers. So, buckle up to start a mouth-watering journey through some must-try dishes in Maharashtra. Grab your napkins, because this is going to get deliciously messy. Besides, exploring famous hill stations, temples, museums and trekking in Maharashtra, don’t forget to try delicious of that particular region.
Popular Food that You Must Try in Maharashtra
Below, you will find some of the famous food in Maharashtra.
1. Vada Pav
Let’s start with the quintessential Mumbai street food, Vada Pav. Imagine a spicy potato filling deep fried in a chickpea flour batter, stuffed into a fluffy bun with a chutney that packs a punch. It’s simple, it’s humble, and it’s utterly delectable. You haven’t truly experienced Mumbai without biting into a Vada Pav at a bustling street corner.
2. Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is another street food classic that you can’t miss. A butter-laden feast, this dish consists of a thick vegetable curry (bhaji) served with buttery soft bread rolls (pav). It’s rich, it’s buttery, and it’s served with a slice of lemon and onions on the side to add that extra zing!
3. Misal Pav
If you like your breakfast with a kick, Misal Pav is your go-to. It’s a spicy curry made from moth beans or mixed sprouts topped with onions, lemon, farsan (mixed savoury snacks), and coriander. Dunk the pav in the curry or just scoop up the misal with it – every bite is a spicy delight.
4. Bhakri with Thecha
Venture into the heartlands of Maharashtra and you’ll often find Bhakri, a type of flatbread made from jowar or bajra, paired with Thecha, a fiery chutney made of pounded green chilies, garlic, and peanuts.
5. Puran Poli
No Maharashtrian festival is complete without Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread stuffed with a sweet lentil filling made of chana dal and jaggery. This dish is a beautiful blend of flavours and is usually ghee-laden for that extra decadence.
6. Kolhapuri Chicken
From the region of Kolhapur known for its bold flavours, Kolhapuri Chicken is a spicy dish that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s aromatic, it’s fiery, and it goes perfectly with a plate of fluffy rice or bhakri.
7. Bombil Fry
Bombil or Bombay Duck is not a duck but a type of lizardfish. This seafood delicacy is marinated with spices and then dipped in semolina before being fried to perfection. The result is a crispy exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
8. Aamti
Aamti is a tangy lentil curry made using tur dal, flavoured with goda masala and amchoor (dry mango powder). It’s tangy, it’s spicy, and it’s a staple in Maharashtrian households, typically served with rice or chapati.
9. Solkadhi
After a fiery meal, cool down your palate with Solkadhi, a refreshing drink made from kokum and coconut milk, seasoned with garlic and coriander. It’s not just delicious but also aids in digestion.
10. Shrikhand
End your meal on a sweet note with Shrikhand, a creamy dessert made from strained yogurt, infused with saffron and cardamom, and garnished with nuts. It’s cool, it’s creamy, and it’s absolutely divine.
11. Zunka Bhakar
Zunka is a dry, spicy gram flour preparation, and Bhakar is a type of flatbread, typically made from jowar flour. Together, they make a filling and nutritious meal that’s beloved in rural Maharashtra.
12. Varan Bhat
Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most satisfying. Varan Bhat is a Maharashtrian version of dal rice, where a simple tur dal curry is served with steamed rice, usually accompanied by a dollop of ghee.
13. Thalipeeth
Thalipeeth, a savoury multi-grain pancake, is made from a mix called Bhajani, which includes various flours like bajra, jowar, and rice flour. Spiced with onions, coriander, and cumin, each bite is crunchy and satisfying.
14. Pithla Bhakri
Pithla, a spicy and tangy gram flour curry, paired with Bhakri, offers a glimpse into the staple diet of Maharashtrian farmers. It’s quick to prepare, hearty, and delicious.
15. Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi, made from sago pearls, is typically consumed during fasting days but is equally enjoyed on regular days. It’s light, it’s chewy, and when spiced with green chilies, peanuts, and fresh coriander, it’s a treat for the taste buds.
Conclusion
From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the tranquil countryside, Maharashtra offers a diverse palette that promises to delight every food lover. Whether it’s the fiery spices of Kolhapur or the sweet treats of Pune, each dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and culinary excellence. So, the next time you’re in Maharashtra, make sure to indulge in these flavours and create some delicious memories of your own! You can book bus tickets through redBus for a hassle-free travelling experience.