10 Maharashtrian Dishes: Celebrating The Diversity Of The Western State

Maharashtra, the vibrant western state of India, is not only renowned for its dynamic cities and rich cultural heritage but also for its delectable culinary offerings. Maharashtrian cuisine is a tapestry of diverse flavours, reflective of the state's geographical variations, historical influences, and diverse communities. This culinary tradition encompasses a wide range of dishes, from spicy street foods that define the bustling streets of Mumbai to traditional and comforting home-cooked meals that have been passed down through generations.

Also read 5 Traditional Dishes By OG Communities Of Maharashtra

1. Vada Pav

Vada Pav is often referred to as the "Indian Burger" and is an iconic street food in Maharashtra. It consists of a spicy potato fritter (vada) placed inside a pav (a soft bread roll) along with chutneys. The vada is made with mashed potatoes, mixed with various spices, coated in gram flour batter, and deep-fried until golden brown. It's served with green chutney and garlic chutney, making it a flavorful and filling snack loved by people of all ages.

2. Pav Bhaji

Another popular street food, Pav Bhaji, is a delectable concoction of mashed vegetables cooked with a melange of spices and served with buttered pav. The rich, buttery bhaji (vegetable curry) is packed with flavours and often garnished with chopped onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lime. It's a favourite among Mumbaikars and a delightful comfort food for many.

3. Puran Poli

Puran Poli is a sweet flatbread that's often prepared during festivals and special occasions. It's made by stuffing chana dal (split chickpea lentils) and jaggery between two thin layers of wheat or maida (refined wheat flour) dough. The poli is then cooked on a griddle with ghee until it's golden and flaky. It's a delightful blend of sweet and savoury flavours, enjoyed by people across Maharashtra.

4. Misal Pav

Misal Pav is a spicy and hearty breakfast dish that hails from Pune. It consists of sprouted lentils (usually moth beans or matki) cooked in a spicy gravy, garnished with farsan (crunchy toppings), chopped onions, and served with pav. The spice levels can be adjusted to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish loved by spice enthusiasts.

5. Bharli Vangi

Bharli Vangi is a traditional Maharashtrian dish that features stuffed baby eggplants. The eggplants are slit and filled with a flavorful masala made from coconut, peanuts, spices, and tamarind. They are then cooked until tender, resulting in a delicious, tangy, and spicy dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or bhakri (sorghum flatbread).

6. Poha

Poha is a popular and easy-to-make breakfast dish in Maharashtra. It's made from flattened rice that's tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, turmeric, and garnished with chopped coriander and grated coconut. It can be enjoyed with a side of sev (crunchy chickpea noodles) and a squeeze of lemon, making it a quick and delicious morning meal.

7. Kothimbir Vadi

Kothimbir Vadi is a savoury snack made from coriander leaves and chickpea flour. The mixture is spiced with ginger, green chilies, and other seasonings, then steamed or deep-fried until it's crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Sliced into cubes and served with chutney, it's a mouthwatering and popular tea-time snack.

8. Solkadi

Solkadi is a refreshing and tangy drink made from coconut milk and kokum (a fruit native to the region). It's often served as an appetiser and is believed to have digestive properties. The pink-hued solkadi is both soothing and delicious, providing relief from the spice of other Maharashtrian dishes.

9. Bharli Mirchi

Bharli Mirchi, which translates to stuffed peppers, is a spicy and flavorful dish. Green chilli peppers are filled with a mixture of besan (gram flour) and spices, then shallow-fried to perfection. It's a popular side dish that adds a fiery kick to your meal.

10. Aamras

Aamras is a sweet and delightful dessert made from ripe mango pulp. The pulp is blended and sweetened to taste, often with jaggery. Aamras is usually served with pooris (deep-fried bread) and is a popular choice during the mango season. Its creamy texture and fruity flavour make it a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.

Maharashtra's culinary heritage is a treasure trove of flavours and textures that cater to a wide range of tastes. From spicy street foods like Vada Pav and Misal Pav to comforting dishes like Puran Poli and Poha, the state's cuisine is diverse and tantalising. These 10 delectable dishes are just a glimpse of the culinary marvels that this western state has to offer. So, the next time you find yourself in Maharashtra, make sure to explore the local cuisine and savour these mouthwatering delights that are an integral part of the state's rich cultural tapestry.