Ahmedabad, a popular metropolis of Gujarat, is a haven for all foodies out there. With a diverse assortment of traditional dishes, this place never disappoints anyone. Gujarati cuisine is known for its rich culinary heritage and unique blend of sweet, spicy, and savoury flavours. Whether you’re a street food enthusiast or someone who enjoys a wholesome thali, hotels in Ahmedabad have something delicious waiting for you.
A Wholesome Gujarati Thali
One of the must-try things in Ahmedabad is the Gujarati thali. This platter is a complete meal in itself. The thali includes dishes such as dal, kadhi, roti, puri, rice, dal baati, vegetables, farsan (snacks), sweets, and buttermilk. During the summer, even aamras are a part of this thaali. What makes it special is the amalgamation of various tastes like sweet, spicy, pungent, and comforting. Eating a Gujarati thali is not just about food; it’s an experience of hospitality, as servings are often unlimited and served with warmth.
The Celebrity of Gujarati Dishes, Dhokla
Another popular snack everyone knows is the iconic dhokla. Prepared from fermented rice and chickpea batter, steamed into soft, spongy cakes, seasoned with mustard, curry leaves, and green chillies, and garnished with coriander and coconut. Served with spicy green chutney, this dish is not only flavourful but also rich in protein and fibre. You can also get different versions of dhokla, like khatta dhokla, suji dhokla, sandwich dhokla, etc.
The Lip Smacking Khandvi
Khandvi is also a famous snack in Gujarat that cannot be missed. It’s a delicate roll made from gram flour and yoghurt, seasoned with mustard seeds and coconut. With soft, silky texture and subtle relishes, it is also a nutritious and gluten-free snack option.
The Combo of Crunchy and Juicy– Fafda Jalebi
Want to give your taste buds a crispy indulgence? Try fafda paired with jalebi! This classic combo is a famous breakfast option in Gujarat. Fafda is a crunchy snack made using gram flour; on the other hand, Jalebi is a dessert soaked in syrup. The contrast of salty and sweet is quite delightful to taste buds and is what locals savour. The fafda jalebi is served with fried green chillies, papaya sambharo or kadhi as well, which makes it mouth-watering.
Mouth-watering Street Food
Street food in Ahmedabad is an adventure in itself. Khakhra, a thin, crispy flatbread, is a popular snack that comes in methi, jeera, and masala flavours. In fact, to suit the modern palate, khakra is now also available in pav bhaji, pani puri, pizza, Mexican, peri peri, and chocolate flavours. Another street favourite is Sev Usal, a spicy curry made with dried peas, topped with crunchy sev, onions, and chutneys. It’s flavorful, filling, and a true reflection of Ahmedabad’s love for bold tastes.
Some More Must-Eats
Ahmedabad’s food tour is incomplete without trying Thepla. This soft, spiced flatbread made with wheat flour, fenugreek leaves, and spices is a staple in Gujarati households. It’s enjoyed with pickles and curd. Because of its long shelf life, it is perfect for travel. Similarly, Handvo is a savoury cake made with the goodness of lentils and rice. It’s crispy outside and soft inside. When you talk of a Gujju dish, Undhiyu is something that has to be mentioned. It’s a seasonal delicacy prepared with mixed winter vegetables, fenugreek dumplings, and spices.
Some Sweet Treats
And if you have a sweet tooth, Ahmedabad is the place where your cravings will be satisfied. Gujarati sweets are not very sweet but rich in taste. Basundi is one such sweet dish prepared with thickened milk, cardamom, and nuts. Shrikhand is made from strained curd and is flavoured with saffron and sugar. It is creamy and refreshing. Mohanthal, a traditional sweet made from gram flour and ghee, is luscious and melts in the mouth.
Wrap Up
Ahmedabad is a culinary destination that offers much more than just food. It offers a taste of Gujarat’s soul. From comforting thalis to exciting street food and delightful sweets, every dish tells a story of tradition and love for taste. If you’re planning a visit, come hungry and ready to explore the amazing world of Gujarati delicacies. Your taste buds will thank you.