Ganesh Chaturthi, which marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, is a widely celebrated festival in Maharashtra. This year, the festival is set to commence on September 19. Lord Ganesh is revered as the deity of knowledge, prosperity, and good fortune during this 10-day-long occasion. Throughout the festival, devotees offer prayers and a variety of cuisines to seek his blessings and appease him. Here are some traditional Maharashtrian dishes to consider serving this year:
Masale Bhaat
Masale Bhat is a simple yet flavorful rice dish infused with regional spices and a medley of vegetables. This traditional and spicy Maharashtrian meal typically incorporates ingredients like ivy gourd (tendli), eggplant, or brinjal, along with a variety of other vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, peas, and even cauliflower. Masale Bhat is often enjoyed without any accompaniments, but it pairs nicely with basic raita or yoghurt. Traditionally, it’s considered a one-pot meal or a complete dinner that doesn’t require additional side dishes. However, it is frequently served in a thali.
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Katachi Amti
Katachi Amti, a speciality of Maharashtrian cuisine, is renowned for its distinctive flavour and cooking method. This dish is a thin, tangy, and spicy lentil-based soup made from the strained liquid of cooked Bengal gram (chana dal), seasoned with spices. Katachi Amti is celebrated for its simplicity and ease of preparation, making it a quick and delightful addition to your meal. It can be enjoyed in various ways – paired with puran poli or steamed rice for a delicious twist on the traditional dal-rice combination, or served on special festive occasions to add a burst of flavour to your festivities.
Check recipe here:
Kothimbir Vadi
In Marathi, Kothimbir translates to coriander leaves, and they hold a significant role in this dish, hence the name Kothimbir Vadi. While there are various methods to prepare this dish, the most popular one involves deep frying and serving. However, in the traditional recipe, it is initially steamed and then fried. Kothimbir Vadi is ideally served as a side dish alongside a full meal.
For recipe check here:
Puran Poli
Puran Poli is a traditional Maharashtrian delicacy typically served during festive occasions like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Holi. In Marathi, “Puran" refers to the sweet stuffing, while “Poli" denotes the flatbread. The authentic Maharashtrian Puran Poli features a stuffing made from husked and split black chickpeas, commonly known as chana dal or Bengal gram.
Find the recipe here:
Solkadhi
Solkadhi, also called solkadi, is a refreshing digestive drink hailing from Maharashtra. It’s prepared using fresh coconut, kokum, and select spices. This sweet and tangy drink is often enjoyed after a hearty meal or as a general digestive aid. Fresh coconut imparts a gentle sweetness, while kokum counterbalances its sourness.
Check recipe here:
The addition of ginger and green chilli provides a subtle spicy kick, resulting in a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours.
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