India is a land full of culture and happiness. People find satisfaction in sharing their foods and each cuisine has something to speak about. Further, right from Poha to pav bhaji, Maharashtra is filled with delicacies for people. The Maharashtrian cuisine is supplied with two varieties, namely Varadi and Konkan. Konkan cuisine has influences from Gaud, Goan, and Malvani regions. The essential ingredients found in the Maharashtrian kitchen include tamarind and coconut. The spices used vary from spicy and tanginess, making mouths water.
List of the 10 Famous Marathi Local Cuisines and Dishes:-
1. Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is such a popular street food originating from the streets of Maharashtra. Likewise, it includes a vegetable curry served with soft bread rolls called the Pavs. The vegetables are mashed first. Secondly, they are combined with lots of spices and ghee butter.
It was an easy mill for the Textile workers, but now it is a favourite snack served in all restaurants in Mumbai. Mumbai tour is incomplete without tasting the ever famous Pav Bhaji! The thick and fresh slices of pieces of bread are mixed in a lot of butter. The curry is also prepared fully in butter with moderately spiced vegetables. This lip-smacking dish has won the hearts of Indians.
| Aspect | Description |
| Dish Name | Pav Bhaji |
| Key Ingredients | Potatoes, peas, carrots, onions, tomatoes, butter, pav bhaji masala (spice blend), lemon, and fresh coriander. |
| Best Places to Try | Street food stalls, local eateries, and small restaurants across cities like Mumbai and Pune. Famous spots include Sardar Pav Bhaji in Mumbai and Tulsi Baug in Pune. |
| Serving Suggestions | Pav Bhaji is traditionally served with pav (buttered bread rolls) and a side of chopped onions, lemon wedges, and sometimes a dollop of butter on top. |
| Cost | Typically affordable, ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the location and portion size. |
| Tips for Visitors | – Try it at a busy street stall for an authentic experience. |
| – Customize your spice level based on your preference when ordering. | |
| – Squeeze some lemon on top for added flavor. |
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2. Bombay Sandwich
This is yet another exciting dish originating in the streets of Mumbai. Besides, it is firstly prepared by spreading green chutney on the sides of the white sandwich bread. Furthermore, butter is put on the other sides of the slices. In between goes vegetables like boiled potatoes, green bell peppers, masala spices.
The green chutney is made using coriander, mint, and all kinds of spices. Bombay sandwiches are made in so many ways, but it usually has three slices. Each layer has different amounts of gara masala put into it. These sandwiches are so easily found on the streets of Mumbai.
| Aspect | Details |
| Dish Name | Bombay Sandwich |
| Type | Street Food |
| Popular Additions | Some versions may include grated cheese, bell peppers, or additional spices. The sandwich may be toasted or grilled for a crispy texture. |
| Serving Suggestions | Best enjoyed hot and fresh, with a side of ketchup and chutney for dipping. |
| Price Range | Typically very affordable, ranging from INR 20 to 50, depending on the size and ingredients. |
| Local Experience | Eating a Bombay Sandwich is a quintessential experience for visitors looking to explore local flavors and street food culture. Enjoy it as a quick and satisfying snack while sightseeing or shopping. |
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3. Misal Pav
Misal Pav is found on the streets of Pune and also in so many eateries in Mumbai. It can be taken as snacks or even brunch style. It has a lentil curry which is so tangy and spicy. The curry is made using moth beans and served alongside bread. Also, many people have it along with yoghurt to ease the spiciness.
Misal Pav is best to have as breakfasts, but Maharashtrians enjoy it at any time of the day. There are so many types of Misal Pavs like Mumbai Misal, Kolhapuri Missal, etc. Some of these variants are equally so much spicy.
| Aspect | Details |
| Dish Name | Misal Pav |
| Ingredients | – Sprouted lentils (moth beans, peas, or mixed lentils) |
| – Onions, tomatoes, and ginger-garlic paste | |
| – Spices such as turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala | |
| – Soft bread rolls (pav) | |
| Where to Find | – Misal Pav is a popular street food in Maharashtra and can be found in local eateries, street stalls, and traditional Marathi restaurants. |
| – Popular cities to try Misal Pav include Pune, Kolhapur, Mumbai, Nashik, and Nagpur. | |
| Tips for Visitors | – Misal Pav can be quite spicy, so ask for a milder version if you have a low tolerance for heat. |
| – Some places offer different types of Misal, including variations in spiciness and ingredients, so feel free to ask for recommendations based on your preferences. |
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4. Ragda Pattice
RagdaPattice is a localized version of the English patties found in every nook and corner of Mumbai. Further, if you are in Mumbai, you should never miss out on Ragda Pattice. It is a delicious dish made using patties and curried dried peas.
The Ragda gravy has chaat chutneys with finely chopped tomatoes, chopped onions, cilantro, etc. The dish is served in almost all the restaurants and is part of local street food in Mumbai.
| Aspect | Description |
| Dish Name | Ragda Pattice |
| Origin | Maharashtra, India |
| Main Ingredients | – Ragda: White peas (dried peas), onions, tomatoes, spices<br> – Pattice: Potatoes, spices, breadcrumbs (optional) |
| Serving Style | Ragda Pattice is typically served hot on a plate. The pattice is placed first, followed by the ragda, then garnished with chutneys (such as tamarind or green chutney), chopped onions, tomatoes, and sev. |
| Best Time to Try | Ragda Pattice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, from breakfast to dinner. It is commonly found in street food stalls and local eateries. |
| Price Range | Generally budget-friendly, ranging from ₹30-₹80 depending on the location and portion size. |
| Must-Try Variations | – Chaat Style: Served as a chaat with various toppings and chutneys.<br> –
Healthy Variation: Some places may offer a healthier version using less oil and baking the pattice instead of frying. |
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5. Shrikhand
Shrikhand is a sweet yoghurt dish that has the flavouring of cardamom and saffron. Also, it is one of the famous dishes that are found at weddings. Shrikhand is served with hot puris to give it a delicious taste. It is yet another widely known Maharashtra dish found in every part of Mumbai.
| Aspect | Information |
| Dish Name | Shrikhand |
| Origin | Maharashtra, India |
| Common Flavors | – Classic: Sugar, cardamom, and saffron<br> – Mango: Added mango pulp for a fruity twist<br> – Dry Fruit: Mixed with chopped nuts for added texture |
| Serving Tips | – Served chilled as a dessert or a refreshing treat.<br> –
Can be garnished with nuts and saffron threads for added flavor and presentation. |
| Cultural Significance | – Shrikhand is often prepared during festivals and special occasions. |
| Where to Try | – Local Marathi restaurants and sweet shops often serve shrikhand. |
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6. Bhelpuri
Bhelpuri is a savoury dish that is found in abundance in the local streets. Furthermore, Bhelpuri is made from puffed rice, tamarind and lots of vegetables. However, it had originated from Mumbai but has spread to different parts of the country. People from other regions have fallen in love with the dish. It is usually served in papers folded in the form of a cone.
Also, many vendors serve it with paper spoons to make it easy for consumption. Bhelpuris come in yet different variants like Dahi Pudi, Sevpapdi Chat, etc.
| Aspect | Description |
| Dish Name | Bhelpuri |
| Type | Street Food |
| Preparation | – Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. |
| – Adjust the amount of chutneys and spices | |
| – Serve immediately for best taste and crunch. | |
| Serving | Serve Bhelpuri fresh in a bowl or plate. |
| Top with extra sev for added crunch. | |
| Taste | A perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy |
| Where to Try | – Local street food stalls |
| Best Time to Eat | Best enjoyed as a snack or light meal any time of the day. |
| Additional Notes | Can be customized with additional ingredients such as pomegranate seeds or roasted peanuts for added texture and flavor. |
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7. Sol Kadhi and Aamras
Sol Kadhi is a popular dish made with Kokam mixed in coconut milk. Likewise, it is famous across Mumbai, Goa and Konkan regions. The coconut milk is mixed with spicy chillies, fresh coriander and Kokam. The dish is made with fresh ingredients making it such a healthy dish.
It is a sweet coloured dish and is an appetizer. Now with the summer season, Amras is the favourite mango servings of so many people. The aamras is made from mango pulp and is quite thick in nature. The pulp takes more than 30 minutes in its preparations. It is best served with chappatis. Ghee or milk is also added sometimes for enhancing the flavours.
| Aspect | Sol Kadhi | Aamras |
| Serving | Sol Kadhi is typically served chilled as an appetizer or a side drink with meals, especially seafood dishes. | Aamras is often served chilled in a bowl or glass. It can be paired with chapati or puri for a satisfying meal. |
| Popular Regions | Konkan region, especially Goa and Maharashtra coast. | Western India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat. |
| Best Season | Summer – perfect for staying cool and aiding digestion in hot weather. | Mango season (summer) when fresh ripe mangoes are available. |
| Cultural Significance | Sol Kadhi is a popular local beverage, often associated with coastal cuisine and traditional festivals. | Aamras is a beloved seasonal treat that brings joy during the mango season and is often part of celebratory meals. |
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8. Bombay Duck
It is a favourite for non-veg lovers in the coastal regions. The duck is entirely butter-fried and is drizzled with onions and lime juice. Bombay duck is best eaten during the rainy seasons. The dish is so exotic in its taste that people can’t stop but seem to love the dish.
| Category | Description |
| Dish Name | Bombay Duck (Bombil) |
| Type | Fish |
| Flavors | Mild, slightly tangy, and salty |
| Serving Style | Served as a side dish or as part of a main meal |
| Occasions | Common in daily meals and special occasions |
| Key Ingredients | Bombay duck fish, spices, salt |
| Cooking Methods | Deep-frying, drying |
| Best Places to Try | Local Marathi restaurants, street food stalls, and coastal eateries in Mumbai and other coastal towns |
| Cultural Significance | A staple in Marathi cuisine, especially in coastal regions |
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9. Modak
Modak is a famous sweet in Maharashtra, primarily served during Ganesh puja festivities. Secondly, there is a sweet filling on the outside made from jaggery and freshly grated coconut. The outer shell is very soft, made entirely from rice flour.
There have been many variants of the dish prepared like Paneer Modak, Chocolate Modak, Dry Fruits Modak, and so many. This sweet is a must-try for so many reasons, and you must try it.
| Feature | Details |
| Name | Modak |
| Type | Dessert |
| Appearance | Modak has a unique shape resembling a small dome or teardrop with pleated sides. Steamed Modak has a white, smooth exterior, while fried Modak has a golden-brown, crispy texture. |
| Serving | Typically served warm, either as a standalone dish or with a drizzle of melted ghee on top. It can be served as a dessert after a meal or as an offering during religious festivals. |
| Variations | – Ukadiche Modak: Steamed Modak, the most traditional version.
Fried Modak: A crunchy, deep-fried version with the same sweet filling. |
| Where to Try | Modak can be found in various sweet shops and local eateries across Maharashtra, especially in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. Look for shops specializing in Marathi sweets for the best Modak. |
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10. Rassa
Rassa is a non-vegetarian dish made using either chicken or mutton speciality. Also, some people prepare it using seafood. Rassa means a watery curry made using lots of water in it. Matnacharassa is a mutton preparation in red curry spices. Taambderassa is red curry and prepared from Kolhapuri chillies.
Pandhra Rassa is like a yoghurt dish and is a white-based curry dish. Varhadi dish is an original chicken variant dish people love.
| Aspect | Description |
| Dish Name | Rassa |
| Type | Curry |
| Main Ingredients | Typically includes chicken, mutton, fish, or vegetables as the base, with a rich and spicy curry sauce made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices. The use of coconut milk or grated coconut adds a creamy texture to the dish. |
| Flavor Profile | Rich and savory with a complex blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. It has a moderate to high heat level depending on the amount of chili used. |
| Serving Suggestions | Usually served with bhakri (a type of flatbread), rice, or poli (chapati). It pairs well with a side of fried papad and pickle. |
| Where to Try | Available at most local eateries, restaurants, and dhabas across Maharashtra. Some places may specialize in specific types of rassa (e.g., Kolhapuri, Malvani). |
| Tips for Visitors | – Specify your preferred spice level when ordering, as some versions can be quite spicy.
Pair it with local breads like bhakri or rice for a complete meal. Try different regional variations to experience diverse flavors. |
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Conclusion
These are some of the specialities found in Maharashtra and neighbouring states. Further, the dishes range from mild to spicy curry dishes. Taste each thing to find out your favourite from the lot!
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