Food has always played a major role in the Gujarati society. Primarily vegetarian, their cuisine is a reflection of the community’s cultural links with the past which is probably the reason why they are also very passionate about it. I am personally very fond of Gujarati food… sweet and spicy, hot and tangy… a meticulous blend of a host of different spices ensuring that unique flavor and distinct taste…Ymmm!!

    A traditional Gujarati thali consisting of dal, shaak, theplas, rice, salads, pickles, a bowl of khichdi, basundi topped with a cool glass of chaas…sheer bliss!! But what gets me hooked are their irresistible snacks like the spongy khaman dhoklas, soft khandvis, sweet and spicy patras or the variety of crispy crunchy farsans which are absolutely mouth watering. I got a chance to taste some of these very delectable food items during my trip to Surat and Vadodara.

    As I am writing this, I am already starting to feel hungry and I am sure you are too! So, dig in the array of photos and grab your share of the local flavors of Gujarat before it’s all finished up!!!

Sweet, soft and fluffy - Khaman Dhokla (steamed gram flour cakes), a traditional and the most popular Gujarati snack served with tampering of green chillies and loads of coriander. If you are in Gujarat, you just can’t miss this!

[ Soft and spongy Khaman Dhokla ]

Sweet and spicy patras (skillfully rolled colocasia leaves) served with delicious chutney, another Gujarati starter makes for a wonderful snack.

[ Sweet and spicy Patras ]

And then there is this thin, crisp, crunchy fried farsans which you can get at any of the wayside stalls accompanied with the divine papaya chutney.

[Crisp and crunchy farsans]

A way to beat the sweltering heat of Gujarat…

[ Refreshing Sugarcane Juice with a dash of ginger, lime and masala ]

    Gujarati food is distinctively sweet but I think the Gujjus (as the Gujarati’s are fondly called) are sweeter…their hospitality coupled with the love for their food…a perfect combination making this Gujarati cuisine every gourmet’s delight!