Savor The Flavor: Pune, Maharashtra’s Top Culinary Delights

Pune, the city known for its rich Maharashtrian cultural fabric, its popularity as a centre of learning, and deep-seated historic roots, also boasts a noteworthy food scene. Delighting in its mixture of true-blue Maharashtrian flavours and the dining styles from other Indian regions, and even the world over, Pune promises a culinary adventure. Whether you're living there, or just passing by, don't miss out on the city's must-try foods.

An interesting part about Pune is that it carries in its arms the cultural heritage of Maharashtra even as we know it as a student’s city and its rich historical facts. Equally important to note is the fact that the food scene in Pune blends traditional Maharashtrian flavors with influences from all parts of India and beyond. Whether you are an inhabitant or a visitor, here are some top dishes you must relish in Pune.

 Misal Pav

You cannot leave Pune without having tasted Misal Pav which is a typical Maharashtrian dish. This spicy curry made from sprouted lentils garnished with farsan (a fried snack mix) comes with a bunch of pav (bread rolls). It can be topped with onions, coriander leaves and squeeze of lime thereby making this dish palatable every time you take a bite. Bedekar Tea Stall and Katakir Misal are well-known places where you can enjoy this hot delicacy.

 Vada Pav

Pune’s version of Indian burger known as Vada Pav is a popular street food cherished by locals. A deep-fried patty that contains spices-flavored mashed potatoes fits inside the pav along with chutneys and a sprinkle of garlic powder on the other side. The snack becomes more appetizing due to its spiciness and savory nature. One can have this street-food classic served at JJ Garden Vada Pav or Garden Vada Pav.

 Bakarwadi

Bakarwadi, another crispy snack from Pune is now popular all over India among masses as they have grown fond of it since long ago when it was first invented here. These swirls are made with dough containing flour filled with a mixture which consists of chili-coconut-poppy seeds-sesame seeds and deep fried until a crisp brown color appears on it. Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale is famous for its tasty Bakarwadi, a perfect finger food that you can buy when going back home.

Sabudana Khichdi

Sabudana Khichdi is a popular breakfast and fasting meal in Pune. This dish made from soaked tapioca pearls boiled with peanuts, green chillies and potatoes is light but filling. The texture and mildness of this dish are improved by adding lime juice and garnishing with some fresh coriander. Some of the places you can try out this delightful dish include Vaishali or Vohuman café.

 Bhakar and Bhaji

When served with Bhaji (vegetable curry), Bhakar which uses millet flour becomes a nutritious meal in its own right. In areas away from the city, people refer to it as the real Marathi food while those who have discovered urban lifestyle enjoy it too. Most loved is Bhakar with Pithla; something many people love due to its rustic flavors.

 Poha

A typical Pune breakfast needs to be associated with Poha, also known as flattened rice in India. Made using ingredients like mustard seeds, turmeric powder, green chilies as well as garnished with fresh coriander leaves and coconut gratings, Poha has less calories yet much taste . It can be served along sev i.e crispy chickpea noodles for added crunchiness of textures . One may go to such places like Vohuman Café or Goodluck Café to eat their delicious poha.

 Puran Poli

The sweet Indian bread containing jaggery and chana dal (split Bengal gram) is called Puran Poli prepared mainly during festive seasons or auspicious occasions in Maharashtra . A tasty delight filled up with sweet aroma and accompanied by a fluffier bread. Sujata Mastani and Bedekar Sweets are some outlets where you can get real Puran Poli.

Mastani

The name of this rich and creamy milkshake is derived from a renowned Maratha queen. Additionally, this dessert drink entails condensed milk, ice cream with fresh fruits including cherry and dry fruits as toppings. That’s why it can be made in different flavors like that of mango, chocolate and strawberry. The most popular spot for tasting this delicacy is Sujata Mastani which has been serving the same since the 1960s.

Kothimbir Vadi

Another variety of snack prepared using besan (gram flour) along with fresh green coriander leaves seasoned with green chillies steamed before being finally shallow fried till golden brown is Kothimbir Vadi. Crispy outside but soft inside makes it good tea time snacks preferred by everyone. These are some of the best Pune based eateries where you get delicious kothimbir vadi like Vaishali Restaurant and Prakash Dining Hall.

Thalipeeth

Thalipeeth is an age-old griddle cake made out of various flours such as rice, wheat, gram flour mixed with onions and spices. Consequently, to retain its taste it is garnished with butter/ghee on top and served along with curd or pickle at the side. This dish filled with nutrition will always make you full (easily) during breakfast time or small meal times. It’s only at Shabree and Durvankur where you can find good Thalipeeth.

Conclusion

Pune’s food culture speaks volumes about its rich heritage and cross-cultural influences. A visit to Pune means exploring into a world of food culture that ranges from hot street food to traditional Maharashtrian cuisine. Plan your next trip to Pune; don’t leave without trying these signature dishes that define the city’s taste buds.