Jain Menu

The Jain cuisine is one of the most pure cuisines, which abstains from the use of meat, fish, eggs, and other produce derived from animals. Being the sixth-largest religion in the country, the followers of Mahavira, rely heavily on fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts. The dishes are devoid of garlic and onions as well. Strictly based on non-violence, some strict Jains also avoid dairy products, if stale. Jains are spread across the country, and will not consume some vegetables as well, which grow underneath the soil. Practice of ahimsa is the cornerstone of their religion, apart from the culinary practices relying on seasonal variations.

Thus, you will find that Jain cuisine relies heavily on cereals, dals, vegetables, fresh yoghurt, paneer, and multiple spices. They will avoid the excess use of pungent spices too. Jains gorge on dishes like Dal Baati Churma, a traditional Jain meal, which is made up of baked wheat balls, and served with a spicy lentil curry and churma. It is a popular side dish as well. Then there is the Jain Pav Bhaji which is a popular Jain snack, which is devoid of root vegetables. Methi Paneer is another popular Jain dish, which is made from tender plant-derived paneer and fresh methi leaves, all cooked in a gravy. It is a flavourful Jain dish.

Most of our state wise cuisines like Gujarati Cuisines, Rajasthani Cuisines, and Maharashtrian cuisines have Jain-friendly menus as many Jains reside in such places. Jain cuisine is purely Sattvic, and quite similar to vegan food.