FROM THE REGIONAL KITCHENS OF INDIA: THE WEST

Explore the gastronomic wonders of Western India with Kayal Arivalan

- Kayal Arivalan

India is a treasure trove of diverse flavours, spices and cooking techniques. While there are many popular dishes that we all know about, there are many little-known regional dishes that are equally delicious and worth discovering. While the lists in this series are by no means extensive, we hope they will serve as a sampler to pique your appetite for discovering more little-known dishes…

The West: The states of Maharashtra, Goa and Gujarat 

Western Indian cuisine is diverse, with each region offering a distinct style and signature dishes that are influenced by the local geography, climate and culture. Over the centuries, this cuisine has evolved to incorporate a wide range of ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavours. With many people in Western India following a vegetarian diet, there are plenty of delicious plant-based dishes to savour. This cuisine is also renowned for its delectable sweet dishes, including shrikhand, peda and modak, which are made using milk, sugar, and an assortment of aromatic spices.

With its very different landscapes, the Western region of the country has given birth to an assortment of flavours that captivate the taste buds and offer a gastronomic experience like no other. From the fiery curries of Gujarat to the seafood delights of Goa, and the delectable street food of Mumbai, eating in the Western part of the country is a journey through diverse flavours.