Top 22 Food of Maharashtra You Must Try

Maharashtra is known for its rich and diverse culture, which is reflected in its cuisine as well. The traditional food of Maharashtra is a blend of different flavours, spices, and cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations. From spicy curries to sweet and mouth-watering desserts, the famous food items in Maharashtra are not only delicious but also steeped in history and tradition.

Maharashtrian cuisine has a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The cuisine is influenced by the state's geography, climate, and cultural diversity. The state has a long coastline along the Arabian Sea, and seafood dishes are a speciality in coastal regions like Konkan. Inland regions like Vidarbha are known for their spicier and tangier flavours, while the cuisine of Western Maharashtra uses peanuts, jaggery, and coconut in its dishes.

Also Read: 5 Easy and Delicious Maharashtrian Dishes to Try at Home

In this blog, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular Maharashtra authentic food. These dishes of Maharashtra will surely take you on a journey to culinary heaven. 

• Vada Pav
• Misal
• Sol Kadhi
• Pithla Bhakri
• Aluchi vadi
• Modak
• Kothimbir Vadi 
• Pav Bhaji
• Puran Poli
• Ragda Pattice
• Bharli Vangi
• Sreekhand
• Poha (Maharashtra food classic to breakfast rescue)
• Sabudana khichdi
• Rassa
• Aamti (Maharashtrian Dal)
• Bhelpuri
• Basundi
• Kairi Cha Panha
• Aamrus
• Kadhi
• Bombil/Bombay duck

Let’s look at these famous foods of Maharashtra in detail.

• Vada Pav

The famous Maharashtra dish, Vada Pav satiates the tummies and hearts of thousands of Maharashtrians every day and has become an integral part of the state’s culinary culture.  

The dish, made of potato patty, mixed with different spices, is dipped in gram flour and deep-fried. It is then served by placing it inside a bun or pav as the locals call it, laced with a dollop of dry, spicy garlic chutney or dry peanut chutney. Most locals enjoy vada pav with a side of fried and salted green chillies. A bite of vada pav and a bite of chilli, and you are sure to be in culinary heaven! 

• Misal

The staple Maharashtrian dish originated in the Khandesh region of Western Maharashtra. One of the famous food items in Maharashtra, Misal is essentially a spicy curry or gravy made of lentils and is often served with pav.  

While the locals prefer to have it at breakfast, you can have it anytime of the day. You can mop off the spicy curry with a piece of pav and enjoy a hearty and fulfilling meal. There are different versions of the dish, and the difference lies in the spice levels and the use of pulses and lentils in the dish. The spice levels of the gravy or the Tari vary based on which part of the state you are in.  
The ‘Puneri’ Misal is rated as the best version of this food of Maharashtra. However, if you prefer a spicier version, you will enjoy having the ‘Kolhapuri’ misal. Spicy and greasy, Misal is everything that perfectly defines the goodness of Maharashtrian cuisine.  

• Sol Kadhi

Maharashtra boasts a long coast that stretches from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan region. Like any coastal region, Maharashtra is known for its delicious seafood dishes, from curries to the world-famous Bombil (Bombay Duck) fry. However, the one traditional dish of Maharashtra that captures the true essence of the state’s coastal flavours is the Sol Kadhi.  

A famous Maharashtra dish, Sol Kadhi is a refreshing and healthy beverage that is usually served as an appetiser. An integral part of the daily meals in the Konkan and Goan regions, Sol Kadhi is made of fresh coconut milk and other indigenous ingredients like kokum, coriander, and green chillies.  

The beverage, as good as it tastes, also has a very attractive pink colour that is pleasing to the eye. But its true goodness lies in its various health benefits. It aids digestion and keeps the body cool. In a nutshell, Sol Kadhi is food for the soul! 

Also Read: Best Places to Have Maharashtrian Thali in Mumbai

• Pithla Bhakri

When you talk about Maharashtra’s authentic food, nothing can be more traditional than Pithla Bhakri. A go-to comfort food for many locals, it is termed as the ‘farmer’s food.’ Having hot pithla with freshly made bhakri is the best comfort food you can have after a long and tiring day.  

A simple and uncomplicated dish of Maharashtra’s food, it is one of the best recipes you can try at home, especially when you don’t have vegetables or too many ingredients to prepare a full meal. Pithla has watery or sometimes semi-liquid consistency, and it is made of chickpea or gram flour, onions, coriander, chilli powder, and other spices as per taste.  

The farmers in the rural areas have pithla with Bajra or Jowar Bhakri. But you can also have it with wheat rotis or rice. The usual side dishes for pithla bhakri are raw onions, chilli and techa, a spicy dry chutney made of garlic and green chilli.   

• Aluchi Vadi

A popular savoury vegetarian snack from the Malvan region of Maharashtra, Aluchi Vadi is every food lover’s delight. You must try this authentic food of Maharashtra! 

The basic ingredient of this dish is the Colocasia leaves. It is stuffed with a delicious mixture of gram flour, rice flour, jaggery, tamarind juice, and a plethora of spices. The leaves are then rolled up, sliced, and then steamed or fried. Both the variations of this famous food of Maharashtra taste equally good, but if you like to have healthy food, you can have the steamed vadi.

But if you don’t mind putting on a few extra calories or you are on a cheat day, try the fried version and you cannot stop yourself from overstuffing, we bet!

• Modak

One of the most famous traditional food of Maharashtra, Modak is everyone’s favourite. It is a sweet dumpling with a filling of grated coconut and jaggery, and the outer part is made of rice flour, which has a soft and melt-in-your-mouth texture as it is steamed. Some people also like it fried, but the most traditional and authentic version is the steamed one, which is a delight to eat. 

The modaks are usually made during Ganesh Chaturthi and are an integral part of the offerings made to Lord Ganesha. Legend has it that the ‘Elephant God’ loves, one of his favourite foods. No wonder, modaks have a Godly taste!

• Kothimbir Vadi

It is a crispy and savoury food of Maharashtra and is perfect for tea-time snacking or as an appetiser.

Kothimbir Vadi is a Maharashtra famous dish made with coriander leaves, chickpea flour, and spices. The coriander leaves give the Vadi a unique flavour and aroma, while the chickpea flour provides a crunchy texture. 

To prepare Kothimbir Vadi, the ingredients are mixed to form a dough, which is then steamed and sliced into bite-sized pieces. These pieces are then pan-fried until they turn golden brown and crispy. Kothimbir Vadi is often served with spicy green chutney or tomato ketchup.

This snack is not only delicious but also healthy as it is rich in protein and other essential nutrients. Kothimbir Vadi is a must-try snack for those who love savoury and flavourful dishes.

Also Read: 8 Ugadi and Gudi Padwa Special Dishes You Can Try at Home 

• Pav Bhaji

Do you know what the absolute Maharashtrian heartthrob is? Pav Bhaji! This is a combination of buttery bread and a medley of perfectly spiced veggies—tomatoes, onions, peas, and potatoes—all mashed up into a delightful, flavourful concoction. It's like a taste explosion straight from the streets of Maharashtra. What's fantastic is the variety it offers—Jain Pav Bhaji, Cheese Pav Bhaji, and Paneer Pav Bhaji, take your pick! Whether you're at a street stall, a cosy restaurant, or a family get-together, Pav Bhaji is one of the dishes of Maharashtra that just brings everyone closer. It's practically a Maharashtrian hug on a plate! 

• Puran Poli

Puran Poli is like a sweet note in the symphony of Maharashtrian cuisine. This is a delightful dessert that is not limited to any special occasion. It's a sweet parantha stuffed with a heavenly mix of jaggery, gram dal, flour, cardamom, and ghee. Picture this during festivals – it's not just a dish; it's a celebration, a joyous dance of flavours. When served warm with a touch of ghee or paired with cool yoghurt, it's not just a treat; it's a journey into the heart of Maharashtrian culinary heritage. Pure bliss! 

• Ragda Pattice 

A beloved Mumbai street snack and a famous food of Maharashtra, Ragda Pattice is a mouth-watering dish that showcases the best of Maharashtra's flavours. Featuring crispy potato patties covered in curried dried peas, the dish is adorned with tangy chutneys, crunchy onions, juicy tomatoes, sev, and fresh cilantro. The perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavours makes this dish an irresistible treat for the taste buds. Served in restaurants throughout Maharashtra and enjoyed by people of all ages, Ragda Pattice is a gastronomic delight that continues to be an integral part of the region's culinary landscape. 

• Bharli Vangi

This is a dish that takes the humble brinjal to a whole new level. It’s brinjals stuffed with a magical mix of coconut, onion, jaggery, and Marathi goda masala. This food of Maharashtra is like a flavour explosion in your mouth! This ingenious combo turns the brinjal into a culinary masterpiece, and no wonder it's a Maharashtrian favourite. Whether you pair it with rice or flatbreads, Bharli Vangi is a true testament to the creativity and versatility of Maharashtrian cooking. The rich, earthy flavours and that melt-in-your-mouth texture are irresistible, you've got to try it to believe it! 

• Sreekhand

Satisfy your sweet tooth with hand, a dessert that's practically a celebrity of Maharashtra cuisine. Imagine sweet, creamy yoghurt with hints of cardamom and saffron – absolute perfection! Typically served with hot puris, this delightful treat is a regular at weddings and festivals. And the best part? Everyone, from the little ones to the young at heart, can't get enough of it. The velvety texture and aromatic flavours of Sreekhand make it an indulgence worth savouring. And if you're feeling adventurous, there are variations like Mango Sreekhand and Dry Fruit Sreekhand that add a tasty twist to this Maharashtrian classic. It's like a party for your taste buds! 

• Poha

Poha is a versatile and comforting staple food of Maharashtra, especially for breakfast, enjoyed by people from all walks of life. With numerous variants, such as kanda poha (with onions), batata poha (with potatoes), and dadpe pohe (with fresh coconut, green chillies, ginger, and lime juice), there's a type of poha for every palate. This nourishing dish is often garnished with peanuts, grated coconut, and fresh cilantro, adding layers of flavour and texture. Poha not only satisfies hunger but also leaves you craving more, making it a much-loved part of Maharashtrian cuisine. 

• Sabudana Khichdi

Sabudana Khichdi, one of the best breakfast dishes of Maharashtra, is a tapioca delight enjoyed during fasting or as a light meal. The dish rocks a unique texture with soft sabudana pearls, crunchy peanuts, aromatic spices, and a lemony kick. Garnished with cilantro and served with yoghurt, it's a flavourful dish with a unique, tempting texture. This simple yet satisfying food of Maharashtra reflects the region’s culinary prowess, turning basic ingredients into breakfast bliss. 

• Rassa

Surely, you have heard of the dishes of Maharashtra. The Rassa (curry) has the potential to top them all. Originating from Kolhapur, this is a non-vegetarian delight available with spicy mutton, chicken, or fish. This juicy dish embodies bold Maharashtrian flavours, featuring succulent meat or fish bathed in a fiery, aromatic gravy infused with the famed Kolhapuri chillies. With rice or flatbreads, Rassa lets the rich, complex flavours take the spotlight. Whether it's the spicy Matnacha Rassa (red curry mutton), tangy Taambde Rassa (red curry), or creamy Pandhra Rassa (yoghurt-based white curry), there's a Rassa variation catering to every taste bud. 

• Aamti

Aamti is an aromatic famous food of Maharashtra. It is available in many variations, each boasting a unique combination of flavours and ingredients. Hailing from the Vidharba region, this simple yet comforting dish is perfect for any meal, enjoyed by people across Maharashtra and beyond. Aamti is typically made from lentils, such as toor or moong dal, cooked with a blend of spices, tamarind, jaggery, and sometimes even coconut. The dish's versatility means that it can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, making it an essential part of Maharashtrian cuisine. 

• Bhelpuri

Street food is a huge part of Maharashtra's cuisine, and Bhelpuri is amongst the top choices. The snack blends puffed rice, veggies, and tamarind sauce for a tangy flavour explosion. A local favourite turned nationwide sensation; Bhelpuri is a texture and flavour party with crunchy puffed rice, soft veggies, and sweet, sour, and spicy chutneys. Topped with sev, cilantro, and a hint of lime, it's a guilt-free, anytime snack that hits all the right notes. Maharashtra's culinary magic strikes again, turning a simple mix into a symphony of taste and crunch. 

• Basundi

Basundi, a sweet treat from Maharashtra, is like a milk miracle. It is boiled until it's creamy and rich, then sprinkled with cardamom or saffron for extra oomph. Then, slivered almonds and pistachios join the party on top. It's a dessert superstar, especially during celebrations. It is even mixed with other fruits and sweets, for instance, custard apple Basundi or angoor Basundi (with mini rasgullas). Maharashtra sure knows how to turn simple milk into a dessert masterpiece! 

• Kairi Cha Panha

Kairi Cha Panha is a traditional raw mango drink that refreshes during the summer. Prepared quickly with Alphonso or Salem Gundu mangoes, it's a chilled delight that helps beat the heat. The drink is made by boiling raw mangoes and blending the pulp with sugar, water, and spices like cardamom, cumin, and black salt. Served chilled, Kairi Cha Panha is a rejuvenating beverage enjoyed across the state. You can have it by itself or pair it with the many dishes of Maharashtra. 

• Aamrus

Aamrus, a summer delight of Maharashtra cuisine, is a crowd-pleaser during mango season. Featuring thick mango pulp, it's a simple and delightful treat served with puris or chapatis. Bursting with sweet, tangy flavours and a luscious texture, it captures the essence of summer. Aamrus is a go-to dessert or snack for all ages, made from ripe, juicy mangoes. Some fancy it up with saffron, cardamom, or a drizzle of ghee. Aamrus is the ultimate proof of Maharashtra's love for mangoes, turning the humble fruit into a tasty sensation. 

• Kadhi

A famous food of Maharashtra, Kadhi is a thick chickpea flour gravy with veggie pakoras, perfect with rice or khichdi. It's a creamy blend of chickpea flour, yoghurt, and spices like mustard seeds, cumin, curry leaves, and green chillies. The veggie pakoras are dipped in spiced chickpea flour batter and fried to golden perfection—onion, spinach, or fenugreek leaves work their magic. Sweet or sour, Kadhi brings it all together in a hearty, beloved Maharashtrian meal. 

• Bombil/Bombay Duck

Bombil, or Bombay Duck, is a seafood star in Maharashtra, featuring a Despite the quirky name, it's not a duck but a tender fish with a mild sweetness. Marinated in spices like turmeric and chilli, it takes a dip in rice flour or semolina before a crispy deep-fry. The result? A crunchy outside with a soft, flaky inside – a seafood delight. Whether in a curry or grilled with a squeeze of lemon, Bombay Duck is a must-try for seafood lovers, as it is one of the best dishes of Maharashtra.

Also Read: 8 Ugadi and Gudi Padwa Special Dishes You Can Try at Home

Enjoy the authentic food of Maharashtra at Club Mahindra resorts 

If you are travelling to Maharashtra for a family holiday, you can visit several places; from Alibaug to Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar to Nashik, there are plenty of choices. Wherever you go, to get the best experience of the local culture, sightseeing and cuisine, book your stay at Club Mahindra resorts.   

The resorts in Alibaug, Nashik, Mahabaleshwar, and Lonavala hosted by Club Mahindra are the most premium resorts in the region and boast a range of premium facilities that ensure you have a comfortable and the most relaxing holiday experience. 
Besides, these resorts also have a reputation for serving the best local dishes of Maharashtra to the guests, prepared by expert chefs at Club Mahindra. From traditional Maharashtrian dishes to international cuisines, you can get the best dining experience during your stay at these resorts. Bon Appétit!