There is a popular saying in Gujarati, “Surat nu jaman ane Kashi nu maran” which roughly translates to “to eat you must go to Surat and to die you must go to Kashi”. If this doesn’t explain in the simplest of terms just how famous and iconic Surat’s foods are, then nothing will. Surat may not be the capital of the Western Indian state of Gujarat, but when it comes to food, most Gujaratis will agree that Surat is the food capital of Gujarat.
Keeping this in mind, you simply must know all about the most iconic and famous dishes of Surat. Needless to say, as Gujarat is a predominantly vegetarian state, most of the popular and iconic foods of Surat are vegetarian—though you may find the occasional chicken or egg dish that is beloved by a select few. But when in Surat, exploring the flavours of the city’s most famous vegetarian delights is a must because you may find non-vegetarian gems elsewhere, but Surat’s vegetarian dishes are unique and truly iconic.
So, if you are visiting Surat, there are a few must-have dishes that you simply cannot miss. From popular street foods to special mithais, crispy snacks to soft ones, the textures and flavours to explore with Surat’s best dishes are plenty. Here are the top eight famous and iconic dishes of Surat that you must try.
Video Credit: YouTube/Your Food Lab
Locho
Born from a mistake and now relished by all those who visit Surat, Locho is best described as a runny Khaman Dhokla that is topped with delicious chutney, sev and more. Made by steaming a thinner gram flour-based batter for Khaman Dhokla, Locho is considered to be a healthy snack. Nowadays, many stores also sell cheesy, Mexican and other flavours of Locho, but trying the original is a must.
Surti Sev Khamani
A chana dal batter is steamed and cooked with ginger, chillies and spices, then served on a plate with a blend of toppings like sev, pomegranate seeds, chutneys and more to make Surti Sev Khamani. So iconic is this dish that its very name refers to the city of Surat. A great option for breakfast, plates of this Surat dish must be savoured.
Ponkh Vada
You might have tasted plenty of pakodas across India, but Surat’s famous Ponkh Vada is simply too unique to miss out on. Prepared with tender jowar leaves that are chopped and mixed into a spicy gram flour batter, Ponkh Vada is a crunchy delicacy that nobody should miss out on. Served with chutney and enjoyed as a tea-time snack, this one is a must-have while in Surat.
Undhiyu
A medley of vegetables cooked up especially during the winter months, Undhiyu is a Gujarati staple that is consumed around Makar Sankranti in January. Vegetables like eggplants, potatoes, beans, spinach and lentil fritters called Muthia are cooked with spices to make this simple, dry and delicious curry. Enjoyed with roti, Theplas and parathas alike, this should be on your winter menu.
Ghari Mithai
Also known as Surati Ghari, this traditional and unique sweet dish is a must-have when in Surat. A dough made of refined flour, ghee and water is stuffed with mawa, gram flour, almonds, cashews, pistachios, sugar and cardamoms to create round balls. These are then deep-fried and dipped in a sugar syrup before chilling and serving.
Khichyu
Also spelled as Khichu, this dish is another one of those simple, vegetarian treats that Surat is so famous for. Rice flour is mixed with water and cooked with a tempering of cumin seeds, green chillies, ginger, salt and oil to create a gluggly, soft mix that is simpler than Khichdi. Many people consume this dish as it is or with toppings of sev, red chilli powder, ghee, etc. This one is a simple household staple also available across many stores.
Video Credit: YouTube/Chef Ranveer Brar
Pav Bhaji
Every street corner in Gujarati cities like Surat has at least one shop, eatery or even stall selling delicious, buttery plates of Pav Bhaji. Pav Bhaji has two elements. The Bhaji is made with mashed vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, potatoes, peas, onions and tomatoes cooked in a special blend of spices and topped with butter, chopped onions and lemon juice. On the side are butter-toasted Pav breads to scoop up the Bhaji with.
Dabeli
Originating in the Kutch region of Gujarat, Dabeli is a delicious Gujarati dish that is sold in its most authentic versions in Surat. Dabeli basically refers to a sort of sandwich of Pav breads stuffed with spicy mashed potatoes, a special Dabeli masala mix, pomegranate seeds and sev. The sandwich is then pressed and toasted, an action which led to the naming of this must-have Surat snack.