Gujarati cuisine is renowned for its unique flavors and wide variety of vegetarian dishes. While many are familiar with popular snacks like Dhokla and Thepla, there are numerous lesser-known yet delicious and healthy snacks that are equally deserving of attention. Let’s dive into these hidden gems of Gujarati cuisine that you absolutely must try.
Khandvi
Khandvi is a delightful and healthy snack made from gram flour and yogurt, seasoned with turmeric and ginger. The mixture is cooked, spread thin, and rolled into bite-sized pieces. These rolls are then tempered with mustard seeds, sesame seeds, and curry leaves, giving them a unique flavor. Khandvi is low in calories and rich in protein, making it an excellent choice for a light snack.
Patra
Patra, also known as Alu Vadi, is made from colocasia leaves smeared with a spiced gram flour paste, rolled up, and steamed. Once cooked, the rolls are sliced and tempered with sesame seeds and mustard seeds. Patra is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, as colocasia leaves are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Handvo
Handvo is a savory cake made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils. It is typically cooked with vegetables like bottle gourd, carrots, and peas, and is spiced with ginger, green chilies, and sesame seeds. Handvo is baked to perfection, resulting in a crunchy crust and a soft interior. This snack is high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and filling option.
Muthia
Muthia are steamed dumplings made from a mixture of flour (wheat or gram), grated vegetables, and spices. The dough is shaped into small rolls, steamed, and then lightly sautéed with mustard seeds, sesame seeds, and curry leaves. Muthia can be made using various vegetables like fenugreek leaves, bottle gourd, or cabbage. They are low in fat and high in fiber, making them a healthy snack choice.
Sev Khamani
Sev Khamani is a savory dish made from crumbled chickpea flour cake (dhokla). It is tempered with mustard seeds, green chilies, and garnished with sev (crispy chickpea noodles), pomegranate seeds, and fresh coriander. This snack is a great source of protein and fiber, and the addition of pomegranate seeds provides a burst of vitamins and antioxidants.
Fafda
Fafda is a crunchy snack made from gram flour dough seasoned with carom seeds and turmeric. The dough is rolled into thin strips and deep-fried until crispy. Although typically enjoyed during festivals like Dussehra, Fafda can be a part of your regular snack repertoire. When consumed in moderation, it provides a good source of protein and fiber.
Dabeli
Dabeli is a spicy snack that originated in the Kutch region of Gujarat. It consists of a spicy potato mixture stuffed in a bun and garnished with pomegranate seeds, roasted peanuts, and sev. While it is often considered street food, Dabeli can be made healthier by baking the buns and reducing the amount of oil used in the potato mixture. It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures, offering both carbohydrates and proteins.
Thepla
Thepla is a versatile flatbread made from wheat flour mixed with fenugreek leaves, spices, and yogurt. It is typically enjoyed as a breakfast item or snack. Theplas are rich in fiber, iron, and protein, especially when fenugreek leaves are used. They can be stored for a few days, making them a convenient and healthy snack option for travel.
Ghughra
Ghughra, also known as Gujiya or Karanji, is a sweet or savory pastry. The savory version is filled with a spiced mixture of semolina, green peas, and grated coconut. These pastries are then deep-fried until golden brown. Ghughra is a festive treat, but when baked instead of fried, it can become a healthier snack option. It’s rich in flavors and provides a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins.
