Maharashtrian cuisine, with its irresistible magic, has captivated the taste buds of people from all walks of life, transcending borders and captivating hearts worldwide. From the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the serene coastal towns, the flavours of Maharashtra are a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region. Two days ago when US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti visited the capital, he became the latest convert to the cuisine when he visited Maharastra Bhawan in Delhi.
He tweeted about his foodie adventures in a video that has since gone viral saying, "From the bustling streets of LA to the colorful lanes of Delhi, my love of great food continues.” he Tweeted, “I'm at Maharashtra Bhawan, eager to explore the fascinating flavors of India. Join me on this journey as I sample the essence of India, one state at a time. Where should I go next? #AmbExploresIndia,"
He sampled an array of dishes including kokum sherbet, vada pav – which he’s rechristened the ‘Mumbai Slider’ – followed by sabudana khichdi (sago). On to the mains he relished bharli vangi and fiery Saoji mutton with millet rotis, where he made sure to remind his viewers to celebrate the year of the millet along with him. He finished off his meal with aam ras, which he loved for being a little bit of dessert in the middle of the meal, sol kadhi and ghee-laden puran poli, before he laughingly declared, “So my fourth course is going to be a nap.”
Though he called the whole meal ‘incredible’, it was the Saoji mutton that was the final winner in his eyes. “It was the most amazon dish and like I said, it’s a hidden recipe, so you have to ask someone in the know to get it,” he says. He’s excited to get on the road for the next leg of his journey and start eating his way through Gujarat and Maharashtra and sample more authentic culinary fare.
His followers were more than happy to help out with suggestions pouring in from all over the country with people sharing their favourite food recommendations which ranged from Pakhala at Odisha Bhavan to Kharvas in Mumbai. He’s sure to have his work cut out trying to get through the long list of delicacies still to be explored
The appeal of Maharashtrian food continues to spread. From bustling Indian restaurants in major global cities to food enthusiasts experimenting with traditional recipes at home, people from all over the world are embracing the flavours of Maharashtra. The magic of Maharashtrian food knows no boundaries, and its flavours have become a universal language appreciated and celebrated by all.