Traditional Maharashtrian foods that you must try

Maharashtra, a state rich in history and culture, boasts a culinary heritage that is as diverse as its landscapes. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene coastal Konkan region, Maharashtrian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and aromas.

In this blog post, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through the traditional foods of Maharashtra that are a must-try for every food enthusiast.

1. Puran Poli:

Puran Poli is a sweet flatbread that encapsulates the essence of Maharashtrian festivals. The stuffing, called 'puran,' is a mixture of chana dal (split chickpeas), jaggery, cardamom, and grated coconut. The outer layer is made from whole wheat flour. This delicacy is a perfect blend of textures, with the softness of the bread complementing the sweet and aromatic filling.

• Price Range: ₹80 - ₹200 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Aaswad, Mumbai: Located in Dadar, Aaswad is famous for its authentic Maharashtrian sweets and snacks.

• Chaitanya Paranthas, Pune: Offers a variety of parathas, including Puran Poli, in a casual dining setting.

2. Misal Pav:

Originating from Pune, Misal Pav is a breakfast delight that embodies the bold flavors of Maharashtra. The dish features a spicy curry made from sprouted beans, topped with farsan (crispy snacks), chopped onions, coriander, and a wedge of lime. It's usually served with pav, and the medley of flavors creates a symphony in your mouth.

• Price Range: ₹50 - ₹150 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Bedekar Misal, Pune: A renowned spot for its spicy misal pav located in Narayan Peth

• Aaram Vada Pav, Mumbai: Though famous for vada pav, they also serve a delicious misal pav.

Also read: Rediscover Mumbai: 15 Iconic Joints from Madras Cafe to K. Rustom

3. Vada Pav:

Known as the 'poor man's burger,' Vada Pav is an iconic street food item. A spiced potato patty (vada) is deep-fried until golden brown and placed inside a pav with chutneys. The combination of the soft pav, flavorful vada, and tangy chutneys makes it a favorite grab-and-go snack for Mumbaikars.

• Price Range: ₹10 - ₹50 per piece

Recommended Places:

• Ashok Vada Pav, Dadar, Mumbai: A legendary vada pav joint known for its crispy vadas and flavorful chutneys

• Chaitanya Vada Pav, Pune: Offers a variety of vada pav options with unique twists.

4. Bharli Vangi:

Bharli Vangi is a Maharashtrian-stuffed eggplant curry that exemplifies the region's love for spices and coconut. The eggplants are sliced and filled with a mixture of grated coconut, peanuts, and spices. The curry, cooked with tamarind and jaggery, achieves a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.

• Price Range: ₹150 - ₹300 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Prakash Upahaar Kendra, Pune: Famous for its Maharashtrian snacks, including Bharli Vangi.

• Gokhale Upahaar Gruha, Mumbai: Located in Dadar, it is known for its traditional Maharashtrian dishes.

5. Poha:

Poha, a quick and wholesome breakfast dish, features flattened rice cooked with mustard seeds, turmeric, green chilies, and curry leaves. Garnished with fresh coriander and grated coconut, this dish is light yet flavorful, reflecting the simplicity and deliciousness of Maharashtrian cuisine.

• Price Range: ₹40 - ₹120 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Kadambini, Pune: Offers a variety of breakfast options, including delicious poha.

• Vinay Health Home, Mumbai: Known for its healthy and tasty breakfast options, including Poha

6. Pav Bhaji:

Pav bhaji is a street food sensation that originated in Mumbai. A spicy vegetable curry, consisting of potatoes, peas, carrots, and various spices, is served with buttered pav. The buttery and flavorful bhaji, along with the soft pav, creates a satisfying meal that captures the essence of Mumbai's street food culture.

• Price Range: ₹80 - ₹200 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Sardar Pav Bhaji, Mumbai: A popular joint near Tardeo known for its rich and flavorful pav bhaji

• Hinjewadi Social, Pune: Offers a unique twist to the traditional pav bhaji in a modern setting.

Also read: 8 Stunning Trek Trails You Must Explore in Maharashtra

7. Modak:

Modak, a sweet dumpling, is considered Lord Ganesha's favorite and is an integral part of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. The outer layer is made from rice flour or wheat flour, while the filling consists of grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. The modak is then steamed or fried, resulting in a delicious and auspicious treat.

• Price Range: ₹40 - ₹120 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Aaswad, Mumbai: Besides Puran Poli, Aaswad also offers delectable Modaks.

• Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale, Pune, is known for its wide range of sweets, including Modaks.

Also read: Complete Travel Guide to Pune - 2023

8. Bhakri with Pitla:

Bhakri, a round flatbread made from millet flour, is paired with Pitla, a spiced gram flour curry. This wholesome combination is a staple in Maharashtrian households, offering a delightful blend of earthy flavors and textures. Savor the rustic charm of Bhakri with Pitla for an authentic culinary experience.

• Price Range: ₹100 - ₹250 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Chulivarchi Misal, Pune: Offers a traditional Maharashtrian thali with Bhakri and Pitla.

• Prakash Upahaar Kendra, Mumbai, Known for its variety of Maharashtrian dishes, including Bhakri and Pitla.

Also read: 10 calm camping sites near Mumbai: activities and more!

9. Sabudana Khichdi:

Sabudana Khichdi, a delightful dish made with soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and mild spices, is a popular choice during fasting periods. The chewy texture of sabudana, combined with the crunch of peanuts and the warmth of spices, creates a comforting and flavorful dish that transcends its simple ingredients.

• Price Range: ₹80 - ₹150 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Vinay Health Home, Mumbai, serves a delicious and wholesome Sabudana Khichdi.

• Durvankur Dining Hall, Pune, offers authentic Maharashtrian thalis with Sabudana Khichdi.

10. Kothimbir Vadi:

Kothimbir Vadi, a savory snack made with gram flour and fresh coriander, is a crispy and flavorful delight. The aromatic coriander leaves impart a refreshing taste, while the gram flour provides a satisfying crunch. Enjoy the perfect balance of spices in each bite of this Maharashtrian classic.

• Price Range: ₹60 - ₹120 per plate

Recommended Places:

• Shreyas Hotel, Pune: Known for its Maharashtrian snacks, including crispy Kothimbir Vadi.

• Prakash Upahaar Kendra, Mumbai, Offers a variety of Maharashtrian snacks, including Kothimbir Vadi.

11. Batata Vada:

Batata Vada, a popular street food, features spiced mashed potatoes coated in gram flour batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. This crispy and flavorful snack, often served with chutneys, showcases the rich and aromatic blend of spices, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a quick and satisfying bite.

• Price Range: ₹20 - ₹60 per piece

Recommended Places:

• Ashok Vada Pav, Dadar, Mumbai: Famous for its crispy and flavorful Batata Vada.

• Chaitanya Vada Pav, Pune: Offers a variety of Vada Pav options, including Batata Vada.

12. Sol Kadhi:

Sol Kadhi is a refreshing beverage made from kokum fruit and coconut milk, offering a perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess. This traditional Maharashtrian drink is not only a palate cleanser but also a cooling accompaniment to spicy dishes. Experience the unique and rejuvenating flavors of Sol Kadhi in every sip.

• Price Range: ₹40 - ₹100 per glass

Recommended Places:

• Prakash Upahaar Kendra, Pune: Known for its refreshing Sol Kadhi.

• Gokhale Upahaar Gruha, Mumbai: Offers a variety of traditional Maharashtrian beverages, including Sol Kadhi.

Also read: Top 14 Maharashtra Destinations to Visit in 2023

Maharashtrian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures, weaving together tradition, celebration, and a love for good food. Each dish tells a unique story, reflecting the cultural diversity and culinary expertise of the region.

So, whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Mumbai or savoring the coastal delights of Konkan, don't miss the chance to indulge in these traditional Maharashtrian foods for a truly immersive culinary experience.