Gujarati cuisine stands as a testament to culinary diversity with its rich tapestry of flavors and dishes. Rooted in vegetarian traditions, it encompasses a wide spectrum of tastes and textures, from the airy elegance of dhokla and intricately rolled khandvi to the hearty comfort of dal and kadhi. Vegetable-centric creations, known as shaak, span the spectrum from simple to elaborate, each infused with a unique blend of spices and often a hint of sweetness.
The region's affection for pickles, chutneys, and farsan—savory snacks—adds a tantalizing dimension. Sweets and desserts like mohanthal and basundi celebrate the art of indulgence, while breads like thepla and puri serve as versatile companions. The remarkable fusion of flavors, the influence of Jain dietary customs, and the harmony between sweet, spicy, and tangy elements define the remarkable diversity that sets Gujarati cuisine apart. From hearty comfort foods like dal and kadhi to intricate creations like khandvi, the cuisine captivates palates with its unique offerings. Lets embark on a culinary journey to discover some of these hidden gems that truly define the essence of Gujarati cooking.
Here are some Gujarati Dishes you must try to give a burst of flavors to your tastebuds:
Undhiyu
It is highly cherished Gujarati dish that epitomizes the complexity and flavors of the region's cuisine. Undhiyu is a mixed vegetable curry typically prepared during special occasions and festivals. It features a medley of seasonal vegetables, often including unripe banana, eggplant, potatoes, and more, which are gently spiced and cooked to retain their individual textures.
The dish is traditionally cooked in an earthen pot, allowing the flavors to meld together slowly. What sets Undhiyu apart is its blend of sweet and savory flavors, owing to the use of ingredients like jaggery and coconut. The dish is also characterized by the use of muthia, small dumplings made from chickpea flour and spices, which are added to the curry for extra texture and taste. Served with puris (fried bread) or rice, undhiyu encapsulates the essence of Gujarati cuisine's diversity and culinary artistry.
Handvo
It is a distinctive savory cake that holds a treasured place in the culinary landscape of Gujarat. This wholesome dish is crafted from a batter primarily composed of rice, lentils, and yogurt, which is enriched with an assortment of finely chopped vegetables, such as bottle gourd, carrots, and peas. The batter is imbued with a blend of aromatic spices and often incorporates a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and sometimes sesame seeds on top, lending it a flavorful complexity. What makes handvo truly unique is its preparation: the batter is poured into a pan and traditionally baked, yielding a delightful interplay of textures—soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside. This dish is both nourishing and appetizing, often enjoyed with chutney or yogurt.
Patra
Patra is a remarkable snack that reflects the artful blending of flavors and textures within Gujarati cuisine. Also known as patra rolls or aloo vadi this dish is made by layering spiced gram flour paste onto colocasia leaves (Arbi ke patte), rolling them into tight cylinders, and then steaming or shallow-frying the rolls. Once cooked, the patra is sliced into rounds, revealing a visually striking spiral pattern. The dish boasts a harmonious balance of tanginess from tamarind or lemon, a touch of sweetness from jaggery, and a blend of spices that infuse the layers with an enticing complexity. The use of colocasia leaves not only imparts a unique earthy flavor but also showcases the culinary innovation of transforming these leaves into an appetizing and visually appealing delicacy.
Basundi
Basundi is a luscious and indulgent dessert that has its roots in the state of Gujarat. This sweet delight is created by simmering milk for an extended period, allowing it to thicken and reduce, resulting in a rich and creamy consistency. As the milk cooks down, it releases its natural sugars, intensifying the sweetness without the need for additional sugar. Basundi is often infused with aromatic spices like cardamom and garnished with an assortment of chopped nuts, saffron strands, and rose petals, adding layers of flavor and visual appeal. Served both warm and chilled, this dessert is a celebration of the slow cooking process, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious treat that captures the essence of the Indian culinary art.
Sev Tameta Nu Shak
Gujarati sev tameta nu shak, also known as sev tamatar sabzi, is a classic dish that Gujarati cuisine has to offer. This dish features a flavorful tomato-based gravy prepared with ripe tomatoes, a blend of spices, and a touch of sweetness. The word sev; refers to thin, crispy noodles made from chickpea flour (like bhujia), which are added to the dish just before serving to provide both texture and a savory crunch. The dish is often prepared as a comforting home-cooked meal and is commonly served with roti or puri, offering a harmonious fusion of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors that are characteristic of Gujarati cuisine. The simplicity and heartiness of sev tameta nu shak make it a beloved and frequently enjoyed dish in Gujarati households.
Gota
It is a popular Gujarati snack or appetizer that is especially enjoyed during monsoon seasons or as a teatime treat. Gota is known for its delightful combination of flavors, crunchy texture, and deep-fried goodness. Gota is primarily made from a batter of gram flour (besan) as its base ingredient. Additional ingredients include spices like cumin seeds, ajwain (carom seeds), and green chilli paste, which give it a distinctive flavour. Freshly chopped coriander leaves and sometimes fenugreek leaves (methi) are added for an herbal touch. Various vegetables, like sliced onions and sometimes grated bottle gourd (dudhi), are also incorporated for added taste and moisture. The batter is typically seasoned with salt and baking soda for leavening and is deep-fried to make gotas that are similar to pakoda or bhajia.
Khichu
Gujarati Khichu is a simple yet flavorful dish made from rice flour and an array of spices, and its known for its unique texture and taste. Khichu is often enjoyed as a light breakfast, snack, or even street food in Gujarat. Khichu is known for its unique and delightful texture. When prepared correctly, it should be soft, slightly chewy, and easy to bite into. It is somewhat similar to upma but made out of rice flour and therefore more like a steamed rice cake. It is flavored with groundnut oil. And since its made from rice flour, Khichu is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.