When I hear “GanpatiBappa Moriya” the sweet and flavourful Modak comes to my mind. These dainty dumplings are stuffed with a mixture of grated coconut, jaggery, poppy seeds and dry fruits. You’ll agree with me that the beautiful beaches of Mumbai are incomplete without the quintessential VadaPav, BhelPuri and PavBhaji. Food is an integral part of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. Its prominence increased in the 17th century with rise of King ChatrapatiShivajiMaharaj who established the Maratha Empire. Maharashtrian food prepared in the royal kitchens was an extraordinary treat. The meal included a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes balanced with different tastes and flavours.. Do you know Sambar of Vada-Samabar is invneted at Tanjavar in South by Marathas.
From the coastal delicacies of the Kokan where fish curry and rice is a staple to the specialities of Deccan plateau and the fiery fare from heat of Vidharbha in the east, Maharashtrian food is truly unique. Wheat, rice, jowar, bajra, lentils and seasonal fruits and vegetables staples. The highlight of this cuisine is the use of peanuts and coconut in most dishes. Maharastrian meals are based Ayurvedic principles. It is believed that your daily meal should be well-balanced which is why a traditional Maharashtrianthali will have Rice, Chapati, Dry Vegetables, Curry, Lentils, Salad, Pickle, Chutney and a Dessert. All the flavours like spicy, savoury, sour, bitter and sweet are packed into one plate.
Marathi cuisine is based on Ayurvedic and scientific principles. For example, during the Sankranti festival we put Til (Sesame) in our food because it builds our immunity and helps fight seasonal changes. Similarly, Kokum Sharbat is a summer treat as it not just cools your body but also helps in digestion.”
Dapoli Beach
The coastal region of Maharashtra is famous for its Malawani Cuisine. Malvan is a town in the on the west coast of Maharashtra. Here, coconut is used in almost every form – grated, dried, fried, coconut milk or paste. Kokum, amsul, tamarind and raw mango are some special ingredients that set this cuisine apart. Kombadi Vade and Solkadhi are two popular dishes of this region that one shouldn’t miss. Another popular coastal cuisine is the Saraswat cuisine. It is famous throughout the western coast of Maharashtra.
Maharashtra is a land of unique local flavours. The CKP cuisine was introduced by the Kayasthas. The culinary tradition involves the use of spices like saffron and poppy seeds. You’ll find rich mutton curries gravies along north along with dishes made with coconut, raw mango, red chillies, fish and sea shells. CKP cuisine is well known dishes like the BhejaPao or dry liver are famous. If you get a chance, you must try the Kolambi (prawns).