Mehsana, nestled in the heart of Gujarat, offers a rich tapestry of traditional and regional dishes that reflect its vibrant culinary heritage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 10 must-try foods in Mehsana, ensuring that every visitor can savor the authentic flavors of this region.
1. Sev Tameta nu Shaak
- Description: A tangy tomato curry spiced with green chilies, turmeric, and jaggery, topped generously with crunchy sev. It’s a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with phulka or thepla.
- Where to Try: Local eateries across Mehsana.
- Price Range: ₹50 – ₹100
2. Bajri no Rotlo with Ringan no Olo
- Description: Pearl millet flatbread served with a smoky, spicy roasted brinjal mash. A rustic and hearty combination, especially enjoyed during winters.
- Where to Try: Traditional Gujarati restaurants in Mehsana.
- Price Range: ₹70 – ₹150
3. Gujarati Kadhi
- Description: A yogurt-based curry made with gram flour, tempered with mustard seeds, cumin, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. It’s slightly sweet and tangy, offering a comforting flavor.
- Where to Try: Most Gujarati thali restaurants.
- Price Range: ₹60 – ₹120
4. Undhiyu
- Description: A traditional winter dish made with seasonal vegetables, yam, purple yam, bananas, and green beans, cooked with a coriander-coconut masala and slow-cooked to perfection.
- Where to Try: Available in select restaurants during the winter season.
- Price Range: ₹150 – ₹300
5. Fafda Jalebi
- Description: A popular Gujarati breakfast combo consisting of crispy, mildly spiced chickpea fritters (fafda) paired with bright orange jalebis that are fried and dunked in sugar syrup.
- Where to Try: Local sweet shops and street vendors.
- Price Range: ₹50 – ₹100
6. Doodhpak
- Description: A rich, slow-cooked rice pudding made with full-fat milk, sugar, cardamom, saffron, and garnished with nuts. It’s typically served chilled with puris or hot on its own.
- Where to Try: Sweet shops and local eateries.
- Price Range: ₹60 – ₹120
7. Thepla
- Description: Soft, slightly spiced flatbreads made with wheat flour, fenugreek leaves, and a handful of masalas. It’s travel-friendly, breakfast-ready, and snack-approved.
- Where to Try: Available at most local eateries and bakeries.
- Price Range: ₹30 – ₹80
8. Khaman Dhokla
- Description: A steamed, spongy, and savory snack made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies.
- Where to Try: Street vendors and local snack shops.
- Price Range: ₹20 – ₹50
9. Khakra
- Description: Thin, crispy crackers made from whole wheat flour, often flavored with sesame seeds, ajwain, or methi. It’s a popular snack for tea-time.
- Where to Try: Snack shops and local markets.
- Price Range: ₹30 – ₹70
10. Pav Bhaji
- Description: A thick, spicy vegetable curry served with buttered bread rolls. It’s a popular street food offering and is also served at restaurants that offer Indian fast food.
- Where to Try: Street vendors and fast-food joints.
- Price Range: ₹50 – ₹100
Exploring Mehsana’s culinary delights offers a journey through the rich flavors and traditions of Gujarat. Whether you’re savoring the spicy tang of Sev Tameta nu Shaak or indulging in the sweet richness of Doodhpak, each dish tells a story of the region’s heritage.