Madhya Pradesh, the second largest state in central India often referred to as the "Heart of India," boasts majestic forts, magnificent temples, vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife. The state's culinary heritage has evolved through its history, unique tribal traditions, and diverse climatic conditions. Malwa, known for its royal Sailana cuisine, presents a culinary adventure that seamlessly combines flavors from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. This regional cuisine is heavily influenced by its role as a major trade hub, incorporating diverse tastes from neighboring states. Famed for its variety of street food and delightful desserts, Malwa cuisine is particularly cherished within Bundelkhand, Mahakoshal, and Gwalior culinary circles. Originally reliant on gluten-free Jowar, the region shifted to wheat following the Green Revolution, leading to a rich variety of dishes. The Malwa region encompasses ten districts: Ujjain, Indore, Rajgarh, Jhabua, Ratlam, Sehore, Dewas, Neemuch, Mandsaur, and Dhar, each home to magnificent monuments and religious sites.
Embark on a journey where nature and cuisine converge in the district of Hoshangabad. Satpura National Park, nestled in close proximity to the Malwa region offers not only breathtaking landscapes and thrilling safaris but also a gateway to indulge in the flavors of Malwa cuisine. As you explore the diverse wildlife and lush forests on a safari through Satpura's rugged terrain, prepare to savour a culinary experience that blends the rich traditions of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, making it a perfect complement to your adventure in this pristine natural sanctuary. Disembarking from a thrilling Satpura jeep safari in the morning shift, begin your hunt for the best place to savour the best of Malwa cuisine.
Here’s What You Get to Munch after Option for Malwa Cuisine
Indori Poha - Indore's famous breakfast dish, the iconic Indori Poha, stands out with its unique blend of flavors. It includes a touch of sugar and is generously garnished with jeerawan, a spicy and tangy powder. In contrast to the Maharashtrian style, onions are used more subtly in this rendition.
Bhutte ka Kees - Bhutte Ki Khees, a beloved dish in Malwa cuisine, features grated fresh corn kernels cooked slowly with milk, ghee, and aromatic spices until it reach a thick, creamy consistency. This delicacy is commonly enjoyed as a side dish, enhancing the meal with its rich and creamy texture.
Dal Bafla - Another cherished dish is the traditional bread bafla, made from wheat flour formed into small balls. In contrast to the Rajasthani fried baatis, bafla is boiled in water, traditionally roasted, and dipped in ghee before serving, typically yielding a soft center.
Goloar Kebab - With its crispy exterior and tender meat filling, the goolar kebab offers a unique dining experience. This dish blends wild figs (goolar) with spices and meat, shaping them into balls stuffed with onions and coated in poppy seeds.
Murgi Survedar - Richard Holkar, the son of the Maharaja of Indore, collaborated on 'The Cooking of the Maharajas' in 1975, a nostalgic journey into the precise culinary practices of royalty. This cookbook featured distinctive recipes such as murgi survedar, prepared with almonds, cashews, poppy seeds, and coconut milk, showcasing how local ingredients influenced royal cuisine. Dry fruits, saffron, cloves, cinnamon, and other spices played essential roles in the rich gastronomic heritage of the royal kitchens.
Indrahar ki Dal - A traditional recipe from Rewa, Indrahar (steamed lentil cakes) involves soaking, grinding, steaming, and pan-frying a mixture of four types of lentils. These cakes are later added to piping hot kadhi for a flavorful combination.
Gosht Halwa - This luxurious halwa, meticulously slow-cooked in royal kitchens, is drenched in desi ghee and infused with the fragrances of saffron and cardamom. It's made with pounded lamb, milk, khoya, sugar, and aromatic spices like saffron and cardamom. Adorned with lavish nuts and topped with silver leaf, this indulgent delicacy simply melts in your mouth.
Indori Shikanji - Shahi Shikanji, a rich and sweet milkshake, is a standout beverage that epitomizes the city's deep affection for desserts. It is simmered slowly for hours with saffron, cardamom, mace, nutmeg, raisins, yogurt, and milk, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors that delights the palate.
