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As winter arrives, Gujarat’s kitchens are abuzz with the aromas of warm, hearty dishes crafted to keep the cold at bay. Gujarati cuisine has always celebrated the diversity of ingredients, especially those available in specific seasons. During winter, the focus is on fresh, seasonal produce and warming spices, making each dish both nutritious and comforting. In Gujarat, winter foods are not just about taste; they provide the warmth and energy needed to enjoy this chilly time of year. From wholesome snacks to filling meals, the winter dishes in Gujarat bring people together, creating a season full of flavour and tradition.
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Each winter, locals look forward to favourites like undhiyu, a dish that combines various vegetables, or gundar pak, which is believed to have healing properties. Whether you’re a fan of savoury or sweet, there’s something in Gujarat’s winter menu for everyone. Let’s explore some of the must-try winter specials from this vibrant state.
10 Winter Specials To Try From Gujarat
Undhiyu
Known as the king of Gujarat’s winter cuisine, undhiyu is a mixed vegetable dish made with fresh seasonal produce like eggplant, potatoes, kand (purple yam), and more. This one-pot delicacy is cooked slowly with spices, which brings out its rich flavours. Undhiyu is traditionally enjoyed with puris or rice and is a must-have dish in Gujarat’s winter menu. Its warming spices and hearty ingredients make it perfect for the season.
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Umbadiyo
Umbadiyo, a close relative of undhiyu, is a traditional dish made mainly in the Tapi and Vapi regions of Gujarat. This dish includes seasonal vegetables and is cooked underground or in a pot for hours to bring out the earthy flavours. Umbadiyo is a nutritious and flavourful dish that is usually enjoyed as a complete meal.
Gundar Pak
Gundar pak is a popular winter sweet made from edible gum (gundar), ghee, ginger powder, and spices like ganthoda. Known for its nourishing and warming qualities, this dish is often eaten for breakfast to energise and warm up the body. Gundar pak is widely appreciated for its taste and health benefits, especially during cold months.
Suran And Kand Ni Chips
During winter, sweet potatoes (kand) and yam (suran) are available in abundance. Vendors prepare crunchy kand and suran chips that are seasoned with spices and make a great winter snack. These chips are enjoyed with hot tea, making them a quick and satisfying snack during the chilly season.
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Paunkh
Paunkh is an ideal winter snack made from fresh, tender grains of green jowar (sorghum). Often served with a sprinkle of sev and spices, this light yet filling snack is loved by locals. Paunkh is also made into paunkh wada, small fritters crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for chilly evenings.
Dal Dhokli
Dal dhokli is a one-pot meal made with wheat flour dumplings cooked in spiced lentil stew. It has a mildly sweet and spicy taste and is often served as a warm, hearty lunch. Dal dhokli is filling and easy to make, making it an ideal winter comfort food in Gujarati homes.
Adadiya Ladwa
Straight from the Kutch region, adadiya ladwa is a nutritious sweet made from black gram flour, ghee, and warming spices. Due to its ingredients and the way it energises the body, it is considered beneficial for health during winter. Adadiya Ladwa is a must-try winter treat with both a unique taste and health benefits.
Methi Bajra Na Dhebra
Methi bajra na dhebra is a winter staple in Gujarat made from bajra (pearl millet) and fresh methi (fenugreek) leaves. These flatbreads are packed with nutrients and make for a wholesome lunch. Dhebra is usually enjoyed with yoghurt or pickle and is cherished for its earthy taste and nutritional value.
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Kachariyu
Kachariyu is a traditional Gujarati winter sweet made from ground nuts, sesame seeds, jaggery, and ghee. Known for its warming properties, kachariyu provides energy and helps to keep the body cosy during the winter months. It is usually prepared in small batches and eaten in moderation as an energy booster.
Khichu
Khichu is a simple yet flavourful dish made from rice flour, water, and spices. This soft, steamed dish is enjoyed with a dash of pickle or papad for a light, satisfying meal. While Khichu is enjoyed year-round, it is especially comforting in winter for its warm, soft texture.
Gujarat’s winter cuisine is all about flavours that provide comfort and warmth during the cold months. With each dish carrying unique ingredients and traditional methods, these winter foods are a beautiful expression of the region’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a fan of sweets, savoury snacks, or hearty meals, Gujarat has something for everyone this winter. Try adding a few of these special dishes to your menu and savour the taste of Gujarat’s warm and cosy winter treats.
