From Dhokla To Thepla: Unraveling The Staples Of Gujarati Snacks

With a rich history of over 4000 years, the cuisine of Gujarat is known for its subtle and delicate flavours, as well as its wide range of vegetarian dishes. One of the highlights of Gujarati cuisine is its vast array of snacks and breakfast items. From savoury dishes like dhokla, khandvi, and fafda to sweet treats like jalebi, shrikhand, and ghari, there is no shortage of options for those looking for a quick bite or a hearty meal.

Many of these snacks and breakfast items are made with gram flour (besan) as the primary ingredient, which is combined with spices, herbs, and other ingredients to create delicious and flavourful dishes. Other common ingredients used in Gujarati cuisine include lentils, rice, wheat flour, vegetables, and dairy products like milk, yogurt, and ghee. Gujarati cuisine is also known for its emphasis on healthy eating, with many dishes being low in fat and high in protein and fibre. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without compromising on taste and flavour.

Overall, Gujarati cuisine offers a rich and diverse range of snacks and breakfast items that are sure to satisfy any palate. Whether you're a fan of sweet or savoury dishes, you're sure to find something to your liking in this delicious and unique culinary tradition. So here are our top picks for essential Gujarati staples, be it for breakfast or for snacks.

  1. Khaman: Khaman is a fluffy and spongy snack made from gram flour (besan). It is typically seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and topped with grated coconut. Khaman can be enjoyed at popular Gujarati snack joints like Das Khaman House in Ahmedabad and Rajkot's Khaman House.
  2. Ghughra: Ghughra, also known as gujiya or karanji, is a crispy and flaky pastry filled with a sweet or savoury stuffing. The sweet version is usually filled with a mixture of coconut, jaggery, and nuts, while the savoury version is filled with a spicy mixture of lentils or vegetables. Ghughra can be found in sweet shops and snack stalls across Gujarat.
  3. Muthiya: Muthiya is a steamed or fried snack made from a dough of wheat flour, gram flour, and spices. The dough is shaped into small dumplings or logs and then cooked until golden brown. Muthiya can be enjoyed on its own or added to a delicious vegetable curry known as Undhiyu.
  4. Patra: Patra, also known as Alu Vadi, is a popular Gujarati snack made from colocasia leaves coated with a besan batter and then steamed or fried. These rolls are seasoned with spices like mustard seeds, sesame seeds, and asafoetida. Patra is both visually appealing and delicious, with a unique blend of flavours.
  5. Gathiya: Gathiya is a crunchy and savoury snack made from gram flour dough that is shaped into thin, long strands and deep-fried until crispy. It is commonly enjoyed with tea or served as part of a festive meal. Popular varieties include Plain Gathiya, Masala Gathiya, and Nylon Gathiya.
  6. Sev: Sev is a crispy noodle-like snack made from gram flour. It comes in different thicknesses and is often seasoned with spices like turmeric, red chili powder, and ajwain. Sev is commonly used as a topping for chaat dishes or enjoyed as a standalone snack. 
  7. Dabeli: Originally from the Kutch region of Gujarat, Dabeli is a spicy and tangy snack that consists of a soft bun filled with a flavourful potato mixture, tamarind chutney, garlic chutney, and garnished with sev, pomegranate seeds, and roasted peanuts. Dabeli stalls can be found in various cities across Gujarat, including Ahmedabad and Surat.

The breakfast offerings of Gujarati cuisine are a delightful way to start the day with an array of flavours and textures. From the savoury Methi Thepla to the classic Fafda and Jalebi combination, each dish tells a tale of Gujarat's rich culinary heritage. So, read on below and venture into the vibrant cities of Gujarat and explore the famous restaurants that serve these essential breakfast items, allowing you to experience the authentic taste of Gujarati cuisine.

  1. Fafda and Jalebi: This iconic breakfast combination has its roots in Gujarat and is particularly famous in the city of Ahmedabad. Fafda, a crispy snack made from chickpea flour, is paired with sweet, syrupy Jalebi to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Head to the bustling streets of Ahmedabad and visit renowned spots like Chandravilas Hotel and Agashiye to experience this quintessential Gujarati breakfast.
  2. Methi Thepla: Hailing from Gujarat's heartland, Methi Thepla is a versatile and nutritious breakfast option. These spiced, fenugreek-infused flatbreads are made from whole wheat flour and a medley of aromatic spices. Traditionally enjoyed with yogurt, pickle, or spicy chutney, Methi Thepla is a must-try breakfast delicacy in cities like Vadodara and Ahmedabad. Indulge in the authentic taste at eateries like Das Khaman House and Kalyan Khaman in Ahmedabad.
  3. Handvo: Originating from the city of Surat, Handvo is a savory, lentil-based cake that makes for a satisfying and wholesome breakfast. Prepared with a batter made from rice, lentils, and vegetables, Handvo offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. For an authentic Handvo experience, visit popular eateries like Surti 12 Handvo and Surat Khaman House in Surat.
  4. Dhokla: Dhokla, a steamed and fermented gram flour cake, is an iconic breakfast dish that has become synonymous with Gujarati cuisine. This soft and fluffy treat, seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and coriander, is enjoyed across Gujarat. Cities like Vadodara and Surat boast popular Dhokla destinations such as Das Khaman House and Jay Hind Dhokla House. 
  5. Khandvi: Hailing from the city of Vadodara, Khandvi is a delicate and melt-in-your-mouth snack made from besan (gram flour) and buttermilk. Thin layers of the cooked batter are rolled and seasoned with mustard seeds, grated coconut, and coriander leaves. Experience the authentic taste of Khandvi at popular establishments like Kalyan Khandvi and Shree Chamunda Khandvi House in Vadodara.

In conclusion, Gujarati cuisine presents a diverse and vibrant array of snacks and breakfast items that have captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. From the fluffy Dhokla and Khandvi to the crispy Fafda and Jalebi, each snack carries the essence of Gujarat's rich culinary heritage.

The cities of Gujarat have played a significant role in shaping and popularizing these culinary delights. Surat, known for its Dhokla, Handvo, and Khaman, has become a hub for those seeking authentic flavours. Vadodara, with its Patra and Khandvi, offers a unique gastronomic experience. Ahmedabad, the bustling metropolis, stands out with its famous Fafda and Jalebi, as well as Thepla and Gathiya.