Braj, a culturally rich region in Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its flavourful and traditional cuisine, closely tied to its religious heritage and festivals. From hearty breakfasts to sacred offerings, Braj cuisine offers a wide variety of dishes that tantalise the taste buds while preserving deep-rooted cultural traditions.
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The food here is simple yet vibrant, with many dishes made without onions or garlic, especially during fasting periods. Each dish reflects the essence of Braj’s devotion to Lord Krishna and the people’s love for wholesome, flavourful meals. Let’s take a journey through the must-try dishes of this beloved cuisine.
Bedmi Puri
Bedmi puri is a classic breakfast dish enjoyed across Braj. It consists of deep-fried puris made from wheat flour and urad dal (black gram). The dough is seasoned with a variety of spices, including asafoetida (hing), cumin, and coriander, giving the puris a distinctive taste. Bedmi puri is typically served with a spicy potato curry, making it a hearty and filling meal. It's often enjoyed during festive occasions or on a leisurely weekend morning.
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Dubki Wale Aloo
Dubki wale aloo is another beloved dish from Braj that pairs perfectly with bedmi puri. This simple potato curry is cooked without onions or garlic, making it a popular choice during fasting periods. The potatoes are boiled and then simmered in a thin, spicy gravy made with tomatoes, green chillies, and a range of Indian spices. The name dubki wale aloo comes from the way the potatoes appear to be diving in the gravy. It’s light, flavourful, and perfect for balancing the richness of the puris.
Mathura Peda
When thinking about trying the Braj delicacies, it is incomplete without Mathura peda. This famous sweet dish is made from condensed milk (khoya) and sugar, with a touch of cardamom for extra flavour. The peda has a grainy texture and is slightly caramelised, giving it a rich, sweet taste. Mathura peda is often offered as prasad in temples and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s a delicacy you’ll find in almost every sweet shop in Braj.
Mathura Heeng Kachori
Mathura heeng kachori is another iconic dish from the Braj region. Kachoris are deep-fried stuffed pastries, and in this version, they are filled with a spiced mixture of urad dal and flavoured generously with asafoetida (hing), which gives it a unique and pungent aroma. These crispy kachoris are typically enjoyed with a tangy tamarind chutney or a spicy potato curry. Mathura heeng kachori is a favourite during festive occasions and is perfect for a filling snack or light meal.
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Vrindavan Dahi Arbi Jhor
In Vrindavan, a dish you shouldn’t miss is dahi arbi jhor. This is a light curry made with arbi (taro root) cooked in a yoghurt-based gravy. The curry is flavoured with mustard seeds, cumin, and a touch of hing, giving it a mildly tangy taste. It’s a simple yet comforting dish that pairs well with rice or chapati and is often served during religious fasting periods. The yoghurt adds a cooling element to the dish, making it perfect for hot weather.
Panchamrit Prasad
Panchamrit prasad is another sacred offering prepared during religious occasions in Braj, particularly in temples. Panchamrit, meaning “five nectars,” is made from milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar. These five ingredients symbolise purity and are mixed to create a sweet, holy drink. Panchamrit is served during pujas and is believed to have spiritual and health benefits. It’s not just a drink but an essential part of Braj’s culinary and religious heritage.
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Vrindavan khichdi
Another traditional dish from Braj, especially in Vrindavan, is Vrindavan khichdi. This simple yet nutritious dish is made from rice and lentils, cooked together with minimal spices. It’s often offered as prasad in temples and is considered a humble yet divine food. Vrindavan khichdi is served with ghee and sometimes paired with a vegetable curry or yoghurt. Its light and wholesome nature make it a perfect comfort food for any time of the day.