By Suprita Mitter
August 9, 2024
One can find a delightful blend of flavours and textures, in Maharashtrian snacks. Spicy, savoury, or sweet, there’s something for everyone. These snacks often incorporate ingredients such as besan, rice, and spices and make for perfect teatime accompaniments or festive treats especially during the monsoon.
Often referred to as the "Indian burger," Vada Pav is a quintessential Maharashtrian street food. The soft vada made from spicy potato is sandwiched between a pav and is served with spicy garlic chutney and fried green chillies.
This spicy curry is made with sprouted moth beans (matki) and topped with crunchy farsan (fried snack mix), onions, and coriander. The recipe for Misal Pav varies across the different regions of Maharashtra. The Kolhapuri version is known to be the most fiery.
Poha is a light and flavourful snack made with flattened rice, onions, mustard seeds, turmeric, and green chillies. It is a popular breakfast option in Maharashtrian homes and also a tea time staple.
Kothimbir Vadi is a savoury snack made from a batter of chickpea flour (besan) and fresh coriander leaves (kothimbir). The mixture is steamed, cut into squares or diamonds, and then fried until crispy.
This crispy, spiral-shaped snack is made from a spiced gram flour dough rolled with a sweet and tangy filling of coconut, sesame seeds, and spices. The rolls are sliced into rounds and deep-fried.
Sabudana Vada is a crispy, deep-fried snack made from soaked tapioca pearls (sabudana). These vadas are especially popular during fasting periods. They are typically served with a side of green chutney or sweetened yoghurt.
Thalipeeth is a savoury multigrain pancake made of mixed flours, including chickpea flour, rice flour, and wheat flour, along with vegetables and spices. It makes for a healthy snack or breakfast option.