Kadhi, a savoury and tangy yogurt-based dish, holds a cherished place in the vast tapestry of Indian cuisine. This humble yet versatile dish takes on diverse regional avatars, reflecting the culinary nuances of different parts of India. Join us on a gastronomic journey as we unravel the unique characteristics of punjabi kadhi, gujarati kadhi, rajasthani kadhi, maharashtrian kadhi, uttar pradesh kadhi, sindhi kadhi, and south Indian mor kuzhambu.
1. Punjabi Kadhi:
Hailing from the vibrant state of Punjab, punjabi kadhi is a delightful amalgamation of gram flour (besan) and yoghurt, creating a thick, creamy consistency. The addition of pakoras (fried dumplings) enhances its heartiness. Tempered with mustard seeds, cumin, and fenugreek, punjabi kadhi showcases the bold and robust flavours typical of Punjabi cuisine.
2. Gujarati Kadhi:
In Gujarat, kadhi takes a lighter and sweeter turn. Gujarati kadhi is characterised by its slightly sweet and tangy taste, achieved through the addition of jaggery or sugar. The besan-yogurt base is tempered with mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves, resulting in a mild yet flavourful dish. It is often paired with khichdi, or steamed rice.
3. Rajasthani Kadhi:
The arid landscapes of Rajasthan inspire a unique version of kadhi with a distinctive flavour profile. Rajasthani kadhi is spicier and hotter, enriched with an array of spices like red chillies, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. It often features the addition of gram flour dumplings called "gatte," providing a hearty and satisfying element to the dish.
4. Maharashtrian Kadhi:
Maharashtrian Kadhi, with its delicate balance of flavours, showcases the culinary finesse of the region. This variation typically incorporates a coconut-based masala, adding a touch of richness and depth. The tempering, featuring mustard seeds, cumin, and asafoetida, infuses the kadhi with a fragrant aroma that is quintessentially Maharashtrian.
5. Uttar Pradesh, Kadhi:
In Uttar Pradesh, kadhi takes on a subtle and comforting form. The besan-yogurt mixture is seasoned with spices like turmeric, red chilli powder, and coriander, creating a mild and aromatic kadhi. It is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves and paired with steamed rice or chapatis, making it a homely and nourishing dish.
6. Sindhi Kadhi:
Sindhi kadhi showcases the unique combination of vegetables and tamarind, lending it a tangy and sour flavour. The besan-yoghurt base is complemented by a medley of vegetables like okra, drumsticks, and potatoes. Sindhi kadhi stands out for its vibrant colour and the distinctive blend of spices used in its preparation.
7. South Indian Mor Kuzhambu:
Venturing into the southern part of India, we encounter mor kuzhambu, a South Indian variant of kadhi. A coconut and yogurt-based curry, mor kuzhambu features a delicate blend of flavours with the use of coconut, green chillies, and cumin. Often seasoned with mustard seeds and curry leaves, this variant brings a touch of the south's culinary finesse to the table.
The beauty of Kadhi lies in its ability to transcend geographical boundaries while adapting to the diverse palates of India. From the robust and spicy notes of punjabi kadhi to the sweet and tangy undertones of gujarati kadhi, and the sour tamarind twist of sindhi kadhi, each variation tells a tale of tradition, culture, and regional pride. So, the next time you savour a bowl of kadhi, relish not only the comforting flavours but also the culinary diversity that makes it a true representation of India's rich gastronomic landscape.