Exploring 17 Ahmedabad’s Famous Food: A Culinary Journey with Club Mahindra

Ahmedabad, a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, is a treasure trove for food lovers. From its savoury snacks to its delightful sweets, Ahmedabad’s culinary scene is as vibrant and diverse as its culture. Staying at Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort offers a cozy and convenient base for exploring the Ahmedabad’s popular foods. Let’s dive into some of Ahmedabad's best food and discover why this city should be on every food lover's travel list.

Must-Try Traditional Foods, Snacks, and Sweets in Ahmedabad 

• Dhokla: The Quintessential Ahmedabad Special Food

Dhokla is perhaps the most iconic of all Ahmedabad's famous food items. This soft and spongy steamed cake, a staple of Ahmedabad’s best food, is made from a fermented batter of rice and chickpeas, giving it a mildly sweet and savoury flavour with a slight tang. The moment you take a bite, you'll notice its light, airy texture, which pairs perfectly with the accompanying chutneys.

The aroma of Dhokla is a delightful blend of steamed chickpeas, enriched by the tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves that is added post-steaming. 

Making Dhokla, an integral part of Ahmedabad’s famous snacks, involves fermenting the batter overnight to achieve the right consistency and flavour. The batter is then poured into a special steamer, and after cooking, it’s topped with a tempering of mustard seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves, giving it that distinctive flavour.

Dhokla is more than just a snack; it’s a staple in Gujarati households, often enjoyed during breakfast or as an accompaniment to tea. Its day-to-day significance in Ahmedabad is undeniable, as it is available at virtually every corner of the city, making it Ahmedabad's best food option for a light, nutritious snack. 

• Khaman: A Sweeter Take on Ahmedabad's Best Food

Khaman is another beloved snack in Ahmedabad, often mistaken for Dhokla but with its own unique charm. This softer, more porous version of Dhokla is slightly sweeter and typically garnished with sev (crispy chickpea flour noodles), adding a delightful crunch to its texture, making it a popular choice among Ahmedabad’s famous snacks.

The sweet, fresh aroma of Khaman is due to its distinct preparation. The batter, made from gram flour, is enhanced with sugar and a bit of baking soda, making it fluffier and sweeter than Dhokla. After steaming, Khaman is garnished with mustard seeds, green chilies, and fresh coriander leaves, making it an essential part of Ahmedabad's best food experiences.

Khaman holds a special place as a popular snack across Gujarat, often enjoyed with green chutney or fried green chilies. As part of Ahmedabad’s special food repertoire, Khaman is a must-try, offering a sweet twist on traditional flavors. 

• Fafda and Jalebi: Ahmedabad’s Favorite Breakfast Combo

Few things are as quintessentially Ahmedabad special food as the combination of Fafda and Jalebi. Fafda, a crispy, savory snack made from gram flour, pairs perfectly with the sweetness of Jalebi, a syrup-soaked, deep-fried dessert. This duo is not just food; it's a beloved tradition in Ahmedabad, making it a staple of Ahmedabad’s best food scene.

Fafda’s earthy, crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the syrupy softness of Jalebi. Fafda is made by kneading gram flour with water, turmeric, and carom seeds, then rolling it out and frying it until crisp. Jalebi, one of Ahmedabad’s famous sweets, is prepared by deep-frying fermented batter in spiral shapes and then soaking them in sugary syrup.

This combination is traditionally enjoyed during the festival of Dussehra but has become a favourite breakfast option year-round. The pairing of Fafda and Jalebi is deeply ingrained in the city’s culinary culture, making it an essential part of Ahmedabad’s famous food offerings. 

• Undhiyu: A Winter Delight in Ahmedabad’s Famous Food Scene

Undhiyu is a rich, spiced vegetable curry that is synonymous with winter in Ahmedabad. This hearty dish is a slow-cooked melange of vegetables like yam, potatoes, and green beans, often mixed with fenugreek dumplings, cooked in an earthen pot to bring out its deep, complex flavours, making it a standout in Ahmedabad’s special food selection.

The aroma of Undhiyu is warm and inviting, filled with the fragrance of fresh vegetables and spices. It’s traditionally made by layering the vegetables with spices in an earthen pot and cooking it slowly over a low flame, allowing the flavours to meld together beautifully, making it a highlight of Ahmedabad’s best food during the winter season.

Undhiyu is especially popular during Uttarayan, the kite festival, symbolizing the warmth of Gujarati hospitality. Though it is a seasonal dish, its popularity ensures that it is available in select eateries throughout the winter, making it a key component of Ahmedabad’s special food culture. 

• Mohanthaal: The Sweet Essence of Ahmedabad’s Special Food

Mohanthaal is a rich, grainy fudge that represents the sweet side of Ahmedabad’s famous sweets. Made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar, this traditional dessert is flavored with cardamom and often garnished with slivers of almonds and pistachios, making it an essential part of Ahmedabad's best food offerings.

The process of making Mohanthaal involves roasting gram flour in ghee until it turns golden brown, then mixing it with sugar syrup and cardamom before setting it into a fudge-like consistency. The aroma of roasted gram flour combined with the sweetness of sugar and the fragrance of cardamom makes Mohanthaal an irresistible treat, often sought after among Ahmedabad’s famous sweets.

Often prepared during festivals and weddings, Mohanthaal is deeply rooted in Gujarati celebrations. It’s a sweet treat that’s not just enjoyed on special occasions but is also available in traditional sweet shops, making it a delightful part of Ahmedabad’s famous sweets landscape. 

• Patra: A Unique Addition to Ahmedabad's Famous Food

Patra, also known as Alu Vadi in some regions, is a popular savory snack in Ahmedabad’s best food category. This dish is made by smearing a spicy gram flour paste on large colocasia leaves, rolling them up, and then steaming them. Once cooked, the rolls are sliced and either eaten as is or shallow-fried for added crispiness.

The texture of Patra is both firm and tender, with a slight chewiness from the colocasia leaves. The taste is a delightful blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a unique offering among Ahmedabad’s famous snacks. The aroma of Patra is a mix of fresh leaves and spices, enhanced when the rolls are fried.

Patra holds cultural significance as a popular snack often served during festivals and family gatherings. It’s a great example of Ahmedabad’s special food that showcases the ingenuity of Gujarati cuisine in using local ingredients in creative ways. 

• Handvo: A Spicy Cake from Ahmedabad's Best Food Selections

Handvo is a savory cake made from a mixture of rice, lentils, and spices, often packed with vegetables like bottle gourd. This dish is a beloved part of Ahmedabad’s special food offerings, known for its crispy crust and soft, flavorful interior.

The preparation of Handvo involves soaking rice and lentils, grinding them into a batter, and fermenting it overnight. The batter is then mixed with grated vegetables, spices, and sometimes sesame seeds before being baked or cooked on a stovetop. The result is a cake with a crunchy exterior and a soft, spiced inside.

Handvo’s aroma is a rich blend of roasted grains and spices, with a hint of the vegetables used in the batter. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or a light meal, often accompanied by green chutney. As a part of Ahmedabad’s best food scene, Handvo is a must-try for those seeking a unique, savory treat. 

• Sev Khamani: A Street Food Favorite in Ahmedabad's Famous Snacks

Sev Khamani is a popular street food in Ahmedabad, known for its vibrant flavors and texture. This dish is made from crumbled Khaman (a type of savory cake) topped with spicy sev, pomegranate seeds, and fresh coriander, making it a standout in Ahmedabad’s famous food landscape.

The taste of Sev Khamani is a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and spicy, with a soft texture from the crumbled Khaman and a crispy crunch from the sev. The aroma is fresh and tangy, often heightened by a squeeze of lemon juice.

Sev Khamani is typically enjoyed as a snack, especially in the evenings when street food stalls come alive. It’s a great representation of Ahmedabad’s special food culture, offering a burst of flavors in every bite. 

• Methi Thepla: A Versatile Staple in Ahmedabad's Best Food

 Methi Thepla is a flatbread made with fenugreek leaves, whole wheat flour, and a blend of spices. It is one of the most popular items in Ahmedabad’s famous food repertoire, known for its versatility and flavor.

Thepla has a soft, pliable texture, with a slightly bitter yet aromatic taste from the fenugreek leaves. The dough is made by mixing wheat flour with fresh fenugreek, yogurt, turmeric, and other spices, then rolled out and cooked on a hot griddle. The aroma of Thepla is warm and inviting, often enjoyed with pickles or yogurt.

Methi Thepla is not just a snack; it’s a travel-friendly food that holds cultural significance in Gujarat. Families often pack Theplas for road trips, picnics, or as a part of everyday meals, making it a cherished part of Ahmedabad’s best food traditions. 

• Basundi: A Creamy Indulgence in Ahmedabad’s Famous Sweets

 Basundi is a rich, creamy dessert made by slowly reducing milk to a thick consistency, then sweetening it with sugar and flavoring it with cardamom and saffron. Often garnished with nuts like almonds and pistachios, Basundi is a highlight in Ahmedabad’s famous sweets category.

The texture of Basundi is luxuriously thick, almost pudding-like, with a smooth and creamy mouthfeel. The taste is sweet and aromatic, with a hint of spice from the cardamom and a subtle floral note from the saffron. The aroma is heavenly, filled with the richness of boiled milk and the warmth of spices.

Basundi is typically prepared during festivals and special occasions, making it an integral part of Ahmedabad’s special food culture. It’s often enjoyed on its own or served with puris, making it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth exploring Ahmedabad’s best food. 

• Dabeli: A Spicy-Sweet Snack from Ahmedabad’s Famous Snacks

Dabeli is a popular street food in Ahmedabad, consisting of a spicy mashed potato filling sandwiched between a pav (bun) and topped with pomegranate seeds, peanuts, and sev. This spicy-sweet snack is a beloved item in Ahmedabad’s famous snacks list.

The texture of Dabeli is a mix of soft, crunchy, and juicy, thanks to the variety of toppings. The taste is a complex blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, with the freshness of pomegranate and the crunch of peanuts adding layers to its profile. The aroma of Dabeli is tantalizing, combining the fragrance of spices with the freshness of the toppings.

Dabeli originated in the Kutch region but has become a favorite across Ahmedabad, reflecting the city’s love for flavorful street food. As part of Ahmedabad’s special food culture, Dabeli is a snack that you shouldn’t miss when exploring the city’s culinary delights. 

• Khandvi: A Delicate Roll from Ahmedabad’s Famous Snacks

Khandvi is a delicate and flavorful snack that is a staple in Ahmedabad’s best food offerings. Made from a mixture of gram flour and yogurt, Khandvi is cooked into a thin, smooth batter that is spread out, rolled into tight spirals, and then garnished with mustard seeds, sesame seeds, and grated coconut.

The texture of Khandvi is smooth and silky, almost melt-in-your-mouth, with a mild, tangy taste that is balanced by the spices used in the tempering. The aroma of Khandvi is subtly fragrant, with the scent of yogurt blending with the earthiness of gram flour.

Khandvi is often enjoyed as a light snack or appetizer, particularly during festive occasions or as part of a traditional Gujarati thali. This dish is a shining example of Ahmedabad’s special food culture, offering a perfect blend of flavor and texture that is both satisfying and unique. 

• Dal Dhokli: A Hearty Dish from Ahmedabad’s Best Food Traditions

 Dal Dhokli is a comforting, wholesome dish that is loved by many in Ahmedabad. It consists of wheat flour dumplings (Dhokli) simmered in a spiced lentil soup (dal), making it a hearty and nutritious part of Ahmedabad’s famous food culture.

The taste of Dal Dhokli is a delightful mix of savory and tangy, with the tender dumplings soaking up the flavors of the rich, spiced dal. The aroma is warm and inviting, with the scent of spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and curry leaves wafting through the air.

Dal Dhokli is often considered a comfort food, especially during the monsoon season or on lazy weekends. It’s a dish that embodies the warmth and homeliness of Ahmedabad’s best food, offering a taste of traditional Gujarati hospitality. 

• Ghugra: A Sweet and Savory Delight from Ahmedabad’s Famous Snacks

 Ghugra, also known as Gujiya in other parts of India, is a popular pastry that can be either sweet or savory, making it a versatile item in Ahmedabad’s special food category. Sweet Ghugras are typically filled with a mixture of grated coconut, nuts, and jaggery, while the savory versions are stuffed with spiced lentils or vegetables.

The texture of Ghugra is crispy and flaky, with a rich filling that melts in your mouth. The sweet version has a fragrant aroma of cardamom and roasted coconut, while the savory version is more earthy and spicy.

Ghugra is often made during festivals like Diwali and is a must-have during celebrations. It’s a dish that reflects the diversity of Ahmedabad’s famous food culture, offering a delightful treat for any occasion. 

• Bhajiya: A Rainy Day Favorite in Ahmedabad’s Famous Snacks

 Bhajiya, or fritters, are a quintessential part of Ahmedabad’s famous snacks. These crispy, deep-fried treats are made from slices of vegetables like potatoes, onions, or spinach, dipped in a seasoned gram flour batter and fried to golden perfection.

The texture of Bhajiya is delightfully crispy on the outside, with a soft, tender interior that bursts with flavor. The taste is a perfect blend of savory spices, with the fresh, earthy aroma of fried batter and vegetables.

Bhajiya is often enjoyed during the monsoon season, with a cup of hot chai, making it a comfort food that is deeply ingrained in Ahmedabad’s special food culture. Whether you’re at a roadside stall or a local café, Bhajiya is a must-try snack that captures the essence of Ahmedabad’s love for street food. 

• Shrikhand: A Cool, Creamy Sweet from Ahmedabad’s Best Food

 Shrikhand is a traditional Gujarati dessert made from strained yogurt, sweetened with sugar, and flavored with cardamom and saffron. This creamy, chilled dessert is a popular item in Ahmedabad’s famous sweets list.

The texture of Shrikhand is smooth and velvety, with a rich, creamy mouthfeel that is perfectly balanced by the sweetness and the subtle spice of cardamom. The aroma is fragrant and inviting, with the scent of saffron and cardamom complementing the cool freshness of the yogurt.

Shrikhand is often served as part of a traditional Gujarati thali or enjoyed on its own as a dessert. It’s a dish that showcases the simplicity and elegance of Ahmedabad’s special food culture, offering a refreshing end to any meal. 

• Khakhra: A Crunchy Delight from Ahmedabad’s Famous Snacks

 Khakhra is a popular, crunchy snack that is a staple in Ahmedabad’s best food offerings. Made from whole wheat flour, Khakhra is a thin, crispy flatbread that is roasted to perfection and often flavored with various spices like cumin, ajwain (carom seeds), or methi (fenugreek).

The texture of Khakhra is crisp and crunchy, with a light, savory taste that makes it an ideal snack for any time of day. The aroma of freshly roasted Khakhra is warm and inviting, often enjoyed with a dollop of butter, pickle, or yogurt.

Khakhra is not only a favorite snack in Ahmedabad but also a popular travel food, thanks to its long shelf life. It’s a great example of Ahmedabad’s famous food, offering a healthy, flavorful snack that is both satisfying and convenient.

Tips for Fully Enjoying Ahmedabad’s Culinary Scene

Explore Local Markets: Visit places like Manek Chowk and Law Garden to experience Ahmedabad’s best food in its most authentic form.

Timing Matters: Ahmedabad’s famous snacks like Fafda and Jalebi are best enjoyed in the morning, while the street food scene comes alive in the evening.

Try a Thali: A Gujarati Thali, available in many restaurants, is the best way to experience a variety of Ahmedabad’s special food in one meal.

Pair with Tradition: Enjoy your meals with traditional accompaniments like chaas (buttermilk) or aamras (mango pulp) to get the full Gujarati experience

Explore Ahmedabad’s best food with Club Mahindra 

Staying at Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort offers travellers a unique blend of luxury and easy access to Ahmedabad’s best food. The resort in Ahmedabad and its strategic location make it an ideal base for those wanting to explore the city’s rich culinary heritage. After a day of indulging in Ahmedabad’s famous snacks and sweets, guests can return to the resort’s serene environment, where luxury meets comfort. Whether it's unwinding in a well-appointed room or enjoying a round of golf, the resort ensures that your stay in Ahmedabad is as relaxing as it is delicious.

Unique Culinary Experiences at Club Mahindra 

At Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort, guests can enjoy a fusion of local Ahmedabad special food with international cuisine. The resort’s culinary team at our restaurants - 19th Hole and Plunge takes pride in incorporating Ahmedabad’s famous food like Dhokla and Undhiyu into their menus, allowing guests to savour authentic local flavours within a luxurious setting. For those eager to delve deeper into the culinary culture, the resort offers cooking classes where guests can learn to prepare traditional Ahmedabad famous food themselves. Seasonal food festivals hosted by the resort further enhance the culinary experience, celebrating the rich flavours of Gujarat.