Authentic foods of Rajasthan

The Rajasthani cuisine is just as colorful as its culture. Due to the influence of Rajput clan, there are a variety of food items ranging from spicy starters to crunchy veggies and delicious sweets.

It is believed that authentic Rajasthani cuisines are inspired by war-like lifestyles and the availability of ingredients in the arid region. 

Although there are limitations of fresh fruits and vegetables, Rajasthani food still manages to be one of the most famous. Common ingredients like lentils, beans, gram flour, millet, bajra, and especially clarified butter (ghee) are used in Rajasthani food. Most people in the state like vegetarian food but meat is also used in dishes. 

Here are the 10 most iconic Rajasthani cuisines you need to try during your vacation: 

1. Dal Bati Churma 

If Rajasthan had a national dish, it would most definitely be Dal Bati Churma. This is a traditional Rajasthani dish without which your entire trip would be incomplete. 

Made with whole wheat flour that is roasted over firewood, the Batis are crispy, round dumpling shaped which are hard on the outside but soft inside. The Dal is made up of different varieties of lentils and spices. The Churma is crushed Bati drenched in ghee and mixed with jaggery and sugar.  

When you combine the three, Bati, Dal, and Churma, they make up for one hearty meal.  

The best place to have Dal Bati Churma in Rajasthan is in the pink city Jaipur. Various authentic restaurants specialize in this dish. 

2. Laal Maas 

Laal Maas is regarded as one of the best non-vegetarian dishes of Rajasthan. It is essentially meat curry made with yogurt-based sauce, tomatoes, and hot spices such as the red Mathania chilies. 

It is through the chilies that the meat gets its rich red color and fiery taste. Laal Maas is best enjoyed with aromatic rice or Chapati (Indian Flatbread). 

The best places to have Laal Maas are in Jaipur and Jodhpur.  

3. Gatte Ki Sabzi 

Gatte Ki Sabzi is a traditional delicacy of Rajasthan. The typical Rajasthani platters are incomplete without gattes.  

This vegetable dish has steamed or fried gram flour (besan) balls which are then cooked in curd gravy. A lot of Indian spices are added which results in a tangy flavor. Gatte Ki Sabzi is best eaten with roti or chapati (Indian flatbread).  

There is also a variety in Gatte such as Masala Gatte, Shahi Gatte, and Gattes covered in spicy gravy.  

Gatte Ki Sabzi is available in restaurants of Jaisalmer, Jaipur, and Udaipur. 

4. Mohan Thaal 

Mohan Thaal is a prominent sweet dish of Rajasthan and one that satisfies your sweet tooth. It is gram flour (besan) fudge filled with cardamon flavor and topped with dry fruits like almonds and pistachios.  

The sweet grainy taste, chewy texture, and aroma of ghee are what make Mohan Thaal a unique dish of Rajasthan. It is a perfect go-to dessert after lunch and dinner. 

You can enjoy authentic Mohan Thaal at sweet shops in Udaipur and Jaipur. 

5. Mirchi Bada 

One of the most famous snacks of Rajasthan is the iconic Mirchi Bada. Although this food item is available in most states, nothing competes with Rajasthan’s Mirchi Bada. 

These are spicy fritters filled with potato and chilies and then served hot with tomato and mint sauce. It is hard to stop at one with this sweet and spicy combination. Mirchi Badas are paired mostly with evening teas or morning breakfast. 

The best Mirchi Badas can be eaten in Jodhpur. 

6. Ker Sangari 

Ker Sangari is a dish that has its roots in Rajasthan. A wild berry Ker grows in the heart of the Thar desert along with dried wild bean Sangari. Both belong to the Rajasthan’s state tree khejiri. Ker and Sangri are stir-fried along with an array of local spices and herbs. 

This dish might not look appealing in visuals but the burst of delightful flavors makes it a must-try in Rajasthan. The authentic taste of piquant and tangy Rajasthani sabzi is best savored through Ker Sangri. 

It is enjoyed with delicious Bajre ki roti (millet or wheat flatbread) and topped with melting butter. 

The traditional Ker Sangri can be eaten at Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Mandawa, and Jaipur restaurants. 

7. Ghevar 

Ghevar is a signature sweet dish of Rajasthan and is seen in almost all festivals and occasions. The appealing dessert is made from blending milk, flour, and ghee. It is then doused in sugar syrup and sprinkled with almonds, pistachios, and saffron on top. 

Ghevar is prepared in a mould and available in different shapes and sizes, the common one being disc-shaped. Varieties of Ghevar include Malai ghevar, plain ghevar, and Mava ghevar. Nonetheless, it is a heavenly dessert of Rajasthan and a delight for people with a sweet tooth. 

You can find ghevar readily available in sweet shops all over Rajasthan. The best shops are in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Bikaner. 

8. Rajasthani Kadhi 

There is diversity in Indian Kadhi, each having its distinct flavor and texture. The Rajasthani Kadhi is generally made from gram flour dumplings (besan pakodis). They have a spicy taste and are combined with tangy yogurt sauce.  

The mouth-watering and flavourful kadhi is usually served with hot rice.  

 Restaurants in Jaipur and Udaipur serve the best and authentic Rajasthani Kadhi. 

9. Mohan Maas 

Mohan Maas is a meat dish and a royal cuisine of Rajasthan. The meat is stuffed with dry fruits and spices and cooked in milk as well as cream. It is finally garnished with cinnamon and cardamon. 

Mohan Maas stands apart from Laal Maas with its white gravy, mild flavor, and delicious creamy taste. It complements well with a portion of rice and Paratha. 

Mohan Maas can be eaten in any of the Udaipur’s authentic restaurants serving it 

10. Kachori 

Kachori is a fried pastry that can be found anywhere in India. However, there are several varieties of Kachori prepared in Rajasthani style. The best ones include pyaaz ki kachori which is savory and Mawa kachori which is sweet.  

Pyaaz kachori is stuffed with onion, potatoes, spices and served hot with sweet and sour tamarind sauce. The Mawa kachori uses ingredients such as dried fruits and khoya soaked in sugar syrup. These kachoris make up for a lip-smacking item for morning breakfast. 

The best kachoris, whether savory or sweet are found in Jodhpur. 

Don’t miss out on these authentic cuisines of Rajasthan that are bound to mesmerize you with their flavorful taste.  In this pan India food tour specially curated by Wild Voyager, you can taste some of the most authentic Rajasthani dishes amongst others. 

 

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