Gujarati Foodie Bucket List: 7 Dishes That’ll Make Your Taste Buds Do Garba
Ankita Rai | Wed, 12 Feb 2025
Gujarat, a state known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic sites, is equally famous for its delectable cuisine. From sweet to spicy, crunchy to soft, every Gujarati dish brings a burst of unique flavors that define the region’s culinary heritage.
Photo:
Gujarat, a state known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic sites, is equally famous for its delectable cuisine. From sweet to spicy, crunchy to soft, every Gujarati dish brings a burst of unique flavors that define the region’s culinary heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Gujarat or simply want to experience authentic Gujarati food, these 7 must-try dishes should definitely be on your plate!
This soft, melt-in-your-mouth delight is a favorite among Gujaratis. Made from gram flour, buttermilk, and a touch of sugar, Khandvi delivers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s light, low in calories, and perfect for weight watchers who don’t want to compromise on taste. Pro tip: Pair it with green chutney for an extra zing!
If Gujarat had a national dish, it would be Dhokla! This fluffy, steamed delicacy is loved not just in India but worldwide. Prepared using fermented gram flour, this dish is low on oil but high on flavor. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner—there’s never a wrong time to enjoy Dhokla. Served with spicy green chutney and tangy tamarind sauce, this dish is a true Gujarati icon.
Handvo is Gujarati cuisine’s answer to a healthy cake. Made using rice, lentils, and vegetables, it’s soft on the inside, crispy on the outside. The best part? It’s packed with proteins and fiber, making it a wholesome meal. Traditionally cooked in a special pressure cooker and garnished with sesame seeds, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, Handvo is a treat for both the taste buds and the tummy!
A road trip favorite, Thepla is Gujarat’s most versatile dish. These thin, spiced flatbreads made with wheat flour, fenugreek leaves, and spices can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them perfect for travel. Pair it with chilled yogurt, pickles, or mango chutney (Chhundo) for a heavenly bite!
Undhiyu is not just a dish; it’s an emotion for Gujaratis! Traditionally cooked in an earthen pot turned upside down, this rich and aromatic mixed vegetable dish is loaded with brinjals, potatoes, yam, fenugreek dumplings, and beans, slow-cooked in a flavorful masala blend. Best enjoyed during winter, it’s a staple at Gujarati weddings and festivals.
Craving something sweet and indulgent? Basundi is the Gujarati version of Rabri, a thickened sweetened milk dessert, often flavored with cardamom, saffron, and dry fruits. Served chilled, it’s an absolute delight during festivals like Kali Chaudas and Bhai Dooj.
Known as Gujiya in North India, Ghughra is a crispy, deep-fried pastry stuffed with sweetened coconut, nuts, and dried fruits. Traditionally prepared during Diwali and Holi, this dessert is so good, you won’t stop at one! Health-conscious? Try the baked version for guilt-free indulgence.
Gujarati food is a perfect blend of flavors, health, and tradition. Whether it’s a light snack like Khandvi and Dhokla, or a wholesome meal like Undhiyu and Thepla, there’s something for everyone. So, the next time you’re in Gujarat or spot a Gujarati restaurant, make sure you dive into these delicious dishes!
1. Khandvi – The Silky Smooth Snack You Can’t Resist!
This soft, melt-in-your-mouth delight is a favorite among Gujaratis. Made from gram flour, buttermilk, and a touch of sugar, Khandvi delivers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s light, low in calories, and perfect for weight watchers who don’t want to compromise on taste. Pro tip: Pair it with green chutney for an extra zing!
2. Dhokla – The King of Gujarati Cuisine!
dhokhla
( Image credit : Freepik )
3. Handvo – The Savory Cake That’s Too Good to Miss!
Handvo is Gujarati cuisine’s answer to a healthy cake. Made using rice, lentils, and vegetables, it’s soft on the inside, crispy on the outside. The best part? It’s packed with proteins and fiber, making it a wholesome meal. Traditionally cooked in a special pressure cooker and garnished with sesame seeds, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, Handvo is a treat for both the taste buds and the tummy!
4. Thepla – The All-Day, Any-Day Staple!
thepla
( Image credit : Freepik )
5. Undhiyu – The Winter Delight Cooked Upside Down!
Undhiyu is not just a dish; it’s an emotion for Gujaratis! Traditionally cooked in an earthen pot turned upside down, this rich and aromatic mixed vegetable dish is loaded with brinjals, potatoes, yam, fenugreek dumplings, and beans, slow-cooked in a flavorful masala blend. Best enjoyed during winter, it’s a staple at Gujarati weddings and festivals.
6. Basundi – The Creamy, Dreamy Dessert You Deserve!
Basundi
( Image credit : Freepik )
7. Ghughra – Gujarat’s Crispy, Sweet Surprise!
Known as Gujiya in North India, Ghughra is a crispy, deep-fried pastry stuffed with sweetened coconut, nuts, and dried fruits. Traditionally prepared during Diwali and Holi, this dessert is so good, you won’t stop at one! Health-conscious? Try the baked version for guilt-free indulgence.
Why Gujarat’s Food Scene is Unmissable!
gujarati food
( Image credit : Freepik )