Gujarat's rich traditions and rituals are intricately tied with its cuisine culture. The state is known for being mainly vegetarian because of a strong religious emphasis. One of the most popular religions in Gujarat is Jainism, which promotes nonviolence and harmony. The cultural practises and traditions has greatly influenced the cuisine selections.
Gujarati cuisine is known for its unique spicy and sour taste along with a hint of something sweet. The reason why Gujarati people include something sweet in their every dish is that the area is mostly a coastal region, so the saltiness comes in every dish. To nullify the taste of natural salts, they mix jaggery or something sweet in every dish.
With the main ingredients like jaggery, barley and millets cooked with the fusion of sweet, sour and spicy flavours, gujarati cuisine stands out as an innovative blend of flavours and textures that reflects its grandeur and splendour.
Today, this article will cover some of the most iconic Gujarati dishes which are a perfect feast for any occasion.
1) Gujarati Undhiyu
Undhiyu is a cosy winter dish from Gujarat made with a colourful mix of veggies—eggplant, yam, and beans—in a pot with aromatic spices. It is slow-cooked to perfection, and the various spices create a symphony of flavours. Undhiyu is often served with puris and a side of shrikhand. To make it, chop and mix the vegetables, coat them with spices, and cook until tender, creating a wholesome and savoury winter delicacy.
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Also Read: 4 Pillars of Gujarati Food Culture
2) Dal Dhokli
Dal Dhokli is a comforting one-pot Gujarati dish that combines spiced wheat flour dumplings with a warming lentil soup mixed with regional spices. To make it, knead wheat flour into a soft dough, roll it into flat discs or dhoklis, and drop them into a slowly cooking pot of lentils, tomatoes, and spices. Let it cook for 5-6 minutes until the dhokli absorbs all the flavours and the soup thickens. Garnish with cilantro and serve this hearty and wholesome dish hot.
3) Thepla
The iconic Gujarati thepla is one of the best breads to beat the winter chill. The use of multigrain flour along with bajra and ragi mixed with wheat flour can make thepla a heartwarming meal. To make it, combine whole wheat flour with spices like turmeric, chilli, and fenugreek leaves. Knead the dough with yoghurt and oil, then roll it into thin discs. Cook on a hot griddle with ghee until golden brown. The result is a delectable and versatile bread, perfect for breakfast or paired with pickles and yoghurt.
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4) Gujarati Ponk Bhel
This bhel is a delightful snack made with ponk or jowar grains. The warmth of Jowar makes it a great heat supplement for the body during winter. To make it, mix ponk with chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and coriander. Add spices, chutneys, and a dash of lemon juice for flavour. Toss everything together, creating a crunchy and savoury bhel. It's a seasonal treat, enjoyed for its unique texture and taste, showcasing the essence of Gujarat's culinary creativity.
5) Bajra methi na dhebra
Bajra methi na dhebra is another flatbread which features bajra flour as the main ingredient along with kasuri methi leaves crushed into it. This dish uses a unique blend of spices along with a touch of methi, which creates a warming experience. First, combine the flour with chopped methi, spices, and oil to prepare. Knead into a dough, shape into discs, and cook on a griddle until golden brown. The result is a nutritious, gluten-free bread with a delightful blend of flavours. For a wholesome meal, Bajra Methi Na Dhebra is often enjoyed with yoghurt, pickles, or tea.
Five of the most essential Gujarati meals are here to try for winter. These delightful meals will assure warmth to the body and create a heartwarming and wholesome meal experience for every occasion.