Best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Explore Delightful dishes

 In Dadra, dadra, Food, Gujarat, Things To Buy

Dadra and Nagar Haveli, with its blend of traditions and cultural influences from neighbouring states like Gujarat and Maharastra, offer a culinary landscape that is as diverse as it is flavourful.

There are many places to visit in Dadra and Nagar Haveli where travellers can explore authentic local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

The culinary environment of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is proof of the region’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. From traditional Gujarati delicacies like dhokla and undhiyu to seafood delicacies and unique snacks, the local cuisine offers a variety of flavours and experiences. 

In this gastronomic exploration, we dig deep into the heart of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, uncovering the treasures of its culinary reputation. From street food stalls busy with activity to humble kitchens where age-old recipes are passed down through generations where each bite tells a story of tradition, flavour and community. 

Join us as we sample the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli has to offer.

The top 15 best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli are:

  • Muthia
  • Ghantia
  • Khakhra
  • Lilva kachori 
  • Dhansak
  • Undhiyu
  • Sutarfeni
  • Khatta meetha bhaat
  • Doodhpak 
  • Aamras
  • Bhajia
  • Ghari
  • Dal dhokli
  • Surti Locho
  • Pithla Bhakri

1. Muthia

muthia
Image Source: In-Fused Living

The name is derived from the way it is made, from the gripping action of the hand. It resembles sausage, but it is a vegan dish and a popular local dish in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It is made up of chickpea flour, methi, salt, turmeric, chilli powder and oil. It is a very good staple of Gujaratis and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. 

The dish can be eaten steamed or fried after steaming. This item is known as vaataa in the Charotar area located in central Gujarat. Other varieties are made by using coarse flour of wheat and leafy vegetables such as amaranth, spinach, grated bottle gourd or bitter gourd. After steamed, they tempered with sesame seeds and mustard seeds.

2. Ghantia

ghantia
Image Source: Zomato

Gaatiya lots of pepper and carom seeds are used. Gathiya can be confused with Sev but both have different tastes and textures. Gathiya has a puffy texture, and light weighted and soft to bite compared to sev. It is also mild in taste and flavour which makes it quite addictive and a popular local dish in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

Suggested Read: Best restaurants in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

3. Khakhra

khakhra

Khakra is a thin cracker made from mat bean, wheat flour and oil. It is usually served during breakfast. Actors are uniquely handmade and roasted to provide a delicious, crunchy and healthy snack enjoyed with a selection of pickles and chutneys.

4. Lilva kachori

lilva-kachori

Livla Kachori, also known as livda Kachori, is a traditional delicacy of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and popular local dish in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Livla kachori has a filling made primarily from tender pigeon peas, which are indigenous to the region. 

The pigeon peas are cooked until soft and mashed, then seasoned with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric and chilli powder. The filling is then put into the Shell made from a door of wheat flour, gram flour and semolina. It is then deep-fried until golden and crispy resulting in a delightful contrast of textures. It is often served hot accompanied by tangy chutneys or spicy pickles.

5. Dhansak

dhansaka

Dhansak is a flavourful and aromatic dish with Persian routes that has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. A stew is made with lentils, vegetables and meat preferably lamb or chicken, dhansak is slow-cooked with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander and cinnamon. This dish is often served with steamed rice or crusty bread.

6. Undhiyu

undhiyu

Undhiyu is a traditional Gujarati mixed vegetable dish that holds a special place in the heritage of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Prepared with seasonal vegetables like bread potatoes, brinjal, sweet potatoes and green beans which are slow-cooked with spices and a generous amount of fresh coriander and grated coconut. It is often enjoyed during winter months or festive occasions

7. Sutarfeni

sutarfeni

Sutarfeni is a very popular item in all of Gujarat and people serve this sweet dish at all festivals and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. There are many varieties of sutarfeni like gulab sutarfeni, kesar sutarfeni and dry fruits sutarfeni. 

So that is mainly made during festivals. This is yummy and can be prepared very easily. All ingredients for making sutarfeni are sugar, water and margarine. It also includes finely ground powder that is made from powder pistachios, saffron strands, almonds and cardamom powder. After the sugar syrup is done and cooled, the katafi is covered with a damp cloth or paper towel.

Suggested read: Beaches in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

8. Khatta meetha bhaat

khatta-meetha-bhaat

Khattar meetha bhaat also known as sweet and sour rice is a popular dish in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. This flavourful rice preparation strikes a perfect balance between tangy and sweet flavours creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The key to Khatta Meetha Bahut lies in its unique combination of ingredients and spices. The dish starts with cooking rice until fluffy and tender. A flavourful tempering is prepared by heating oil or ghee and adding mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chillies, curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida.

Once the tempering is fragrant and the spices are aromatic tamarind pulp and jaggery or added to the mixture. Other ingredients such as peanuts, cashews and raisins may also be added for texture and an additional layer of flavour. The cooked rice is then added to the tempering mixture ensuring that it is well coated with the flavours and colours of the spices. The dishes are gently stirred and allowed to simmer for a few minutes in the tangy sweet sauce. Khatta Meetha bhaat is often served as a main dish accompanied by a side of Raita to balance out the flavours. It is a popular choice for festive occasions and gatherings.

9.  Doodhpak

doodhpak

Doodhpak translates to milk pudding in Hindi, emphasising the central role of milk in this desert. This dish is made by simmering rise in milk until it is soft and tender, allowing the grains to observe the creamy goodness of the milk. Basmati rice is commonly used for its fragrant aroma and delicate texture. To enhance the flavour and richness of Doodhpak,  spices like cardamom, saffron and nutmeg are often added to the Milk. Once the rice is cooked and the milk has thickened to a creamy consistency, sugar or jaggery is added to sweeten the pudding to taste. 

It is garnished with a variety of toppings such as chopped nuts almonds, cashews or pistachios and writes foods like chopped dates or raisins which add texture to the desert. Some variations of doodhpak also include ingredients like grated coconut or khoya to add to the richness and flavour. So warm or chilled it is a decadent intelligence that is sure to delight your senses and satisfy and eat sweet tooth and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

10. Aamras

aamras

The word Aamras is derived from two Hindi words I am and Ras meaning mango juice. Aamras is all about capturing the essence of ripe, juicy mangoes yes mouth and silky purée. It is a loved desert in Dadra and Nagar Haveli especially during the summer months when mangoes are in season and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. 

To make Aamras, ripe mangoes are peeled pitted and then period until smooth. The beauty may be strained to remove the fibrous bits resulting in the velvety stir texture that melts in the mouth. Some variations of Aamras may include a splash of milk or cream to enhance the creaminess of the puree. Aamras is not only enjoyed as a standalone dessert but also used as a versatile ingredient in other creations Like smoothies, milkshakes, ice cream and yoghurt parfaits.

11. Bhajiya

bhajiya

Bhajiya aka pakodas is a popular savoury snack enjoyed across India including in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. This crispy and flavourful treat is made by batter coating various vegetables, herbs or even meats and then deep-fried until golden and crispy. 

Bhajiya is a beloved street food commonly prepared at home for gatherings, festivals and rainy day indulgences. The Bhajiya batter is typically made using chickpea flour as a base various spices like turmeric chilli powder coriander powder cumin and ajwain along with salt are added to it. A wide variety of vegetables can be used including potatoes, onions, spinach, as planned, chilli pepper et cetera. The Bhajiya is deep-fried until it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender and Inside. 

Suggested read: Homestays in Dadra and Nagar Haveli

12. Ghari

ghari

Ghari is a sweet dish from Gujarati cuisine, from the region of Surat. Ghari is made of puri batter, milk mawa, ghee and sugar which is made into round shapes with sweet filling which is to be consumed on Chandni Padva festival. It is also available in many varieties and flavours such as pistachio, almond- elaichi and mawa. 

Traditionally, the sealed patterns or designed by intricate patterns using a special tool called Gharivat, which gives the desert its name. Once assembled the Ghari Pet is deep fried in ghee until it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside.

It is particularly me during festive occasions such as Diwali and weddings.

13. Dal dhokli

dal-dhokli

Dal dhokli is a one-pot meal that combines the goodness of lentils and wheat flour dumplings. This comforting dish is prepared by simmering lentils with spices and then adding bite-size pieces of rolled wheat flour dough. These dumplings cooked in the flavourful Dal brought, observing its rich flavours and becoming soft and pillow. Dal Dhokli is often Garnished with fresh coriander with a squeeze of lemon juice for an added zing

14. Surti Locho

surti locho
Nehas Cook Book

Surti Locho is a popular street food from Surat Gujarat but is widely enjoyed in Dadra Nagar Haveli as well and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The star ingredient of Surti Locho is Besan, which forms the base of the dish. 

The gram flour is fermented overnight with a mixture of yoghurt, water and spices allowing it to develop a tangy flavour and every texture. The formatted batter is then steamed until it sets into a soft and spongy cake-like consistency. Once steamed the Surti Locho is cut into cubes or squares and then tempered with a mixture of mustard seed, curry leaves, green chillies and sometimes garlic. This tempering infuses the dish with aromatic flavours and subtle kick-off flavours.

15. Pithla Bhakri

Pithla Bhakri

Pithla bhakri is a traditional and comforting dish popular in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Pithla, a thick and savoury chickpea flour curry, is the star of the dish, packed with flavours like turmeric, cumin and coriander. It is “with onion, garlic and green chillies for added depth. Bhakri, a flatbread made from millet or sorghum flour, accompanies the pithla serving as a perfect flavourful gravy. It is not only a wholesome meal but also nutritious

Where can I find the best traditional cuisine in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?

For the best local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli look no further than local eateries and restaurants that specialise in regional dishes. Explore some family-run establishments and heritage restaurants in town like Silvassa to savour authentic dishes like Undhiyu, dhokla and fafda Jalebi.

Are there any famous street food spots offering unique dishes in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?

While Dadra and Nagar Nagar Haveli may not be as famous for their street food as some other regions in India you can still find unique and delicious dishes at local street food spots like Khanvel Road or Naroli Road.

What are some popular food markets or stalls known for local specialities in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?

Some popular food markets or stalls known for local food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli our Silvassa or Khanvel. You are you will find vendors selling a variety of local snacks including Aamras common and pithla bhakri.

Can you recommend any restaurants or eateries famous for serving authentic Dadra and Nagar Haveli cuisine?

For a taste of authentic Dadra and Nagar Haveli cuisine in a restaurant setting consider dining at restaurants like Bindeshwar in Silvassa or Kansar Gujarati Thali in Khanvel. These restaurants are renowned for their extensive menu featuring local dishes like dal dhokli, Kaju Karela and basundi.

Recent Posts

Leave a Comment

local-food-havelockbest-food-in-agra