The first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha election started on Friday, April 19. Maharashtra witnessed its first phase of polling unfolding five Lok Sabha constituencies namely Chandrapur, Bhandara-Gondiya, Gadchiroli-Chimur, Ramtek, and Nagpur. The Election Commission of India has declared that a total of 97 contenders competed for victory in this phase.
Being an Indian, it is a responsible duty of yours to cast your vote to your preferred party, to help in the smooth working of the government. If you’re present in Maharashtra for the Lok Sabha elections, find a break, and indulge in some of the popular dishes from the state.
Maharashtra is nestled in the western region of India, and is known for its dynamic cities and also for its diverse and flavourful cuisines. People’s love for food ranges from street snacks to festive dishes. Maharashtrian food is a blend of spices, texture, and flavours that reflects the state’s cultural diversity and agricultural abundance.
Here are six popular Maharashtrian delicacies you can enjoy:
- Vada Pav
Vada pav, the quintessential street food, often referred to as the ‘poor man’s burger’ has won the hearts of millions across Maharashtra and beyond. This snack features a deep-fried potato vada sandwiched between two soft buns (pav) and spread with spicy garlic chutney. This is a flavourful snack option and is enjoyed by both adults and kids. This is a go-to-grab food on the way to your busy day.
- Pav Bhaji
This is another beloved street food hailing from Maharashtra. Pav Bhaji is a marriage of mashed vegetables cooked in a fragrant tomato-based gravy and served with buttered pav (bread rolls). Bhaji, the vegetable curry is made from a special blend of spices and garnished with chopped onions, coriander leaves, and a squeeze of lemon. It is a comforting and satisfying dish for any time of the day.
- Misal Pav
This Maharashtrian dish is spicy and flavourful which consists of a spicy curry made of matki beans and topped with farsan (fried savoury snacks) and is served with pav. This wholesome dish is garnished with chopped onions, coriander leaves and a squeze of lemon, adding freshness and tanginess to each bite. This is a popular brunch dish having bold flavours and comforting warmth.
- Poha
Poha is a popular Maharashtrian breakfast dish made with flattened rice (poha) and cooked with onions, potatoes, peanuts, and a wide range of spices. This is a quick and easy-to-make dish that is favourite among busy households. Poha has spread its wings beyond Maharashtra and is enjoyed by people all across the nation. It is often served with a sprinkle of fresh coconut, chopped coriander, and a squeeze of lime juice for that extra kick.
- Puran Poli
This is a traditional Maharashtrian sweet flatbread made from flour, chana dal, jaggery, and cardamom. This filling or the ‘puran’ is stuffed inside the dough and rolled into thin circles and cooked on a tawa till golden brown. Puran poli is generally enjoyed during festival and special occasions, symbolising warmth, and togetherness.
- Sabudana Khichdi
Often considered as the fasting food, sabudana khichdi hails from Maharashtra. The dish is generally enjoyed during religious festivals and occasions. The dish is made from tapioca pearls (sabuana) which are sauteed with peanuts, potatoes, green chillies, and cumin seeds. This is a light and flavourful dish that is nutritious as well as filling. Serve the sabudana khichdi with a side of yoghurt or green chutney.
- Kolhapuri Mutton
Hailing from the Kolhapur region of Maharashtra, this dish stands tall in the Maharashtrian cuisine. This fiery and aromatic dish features tender pieces of mutton that is cooked in a rich and spicy gravy made from a blend of Kolhapuri spices that includes, black pepper, red chillies and garam masala. This dish is often enjoyed with steamed rice or Bhakri.
- Aamras
This is a delightful summer dessert made of mangoes, the king of fruits. To make this dessert, ripe mangoes are blended with sugar and milk, to create a smooth and creamy texture. Aamras is often served chilled and is a refreshing treat on hot summer days. Aamras is paired with puris.