Rajasthani Menu

The land of the Rajputs is a food paradise, which boasts a plethora of dishes. Rajasthani cuisine draws major influences from the geographical and cultural variations. It is not just influenced by the rich heritage of the Rajputs, but has other influences from the Mughals, to the local Maheshwaris and Marwaris and desert nomads. The cuisine is mainly vegetarian, and uses lots of fresh ingredients like asafoetida, besan, amchur, and fenugreek. Rajasthani cuisine is synonymous with the use of Ghee, as water is scarce. The Rajasthani people have a penchant for foods that are rich in spices and chillies. They are also quite fond of milk-based dishes. Jowar, bajra, and dals are used aplenty.

The cuisines vary as you move from one place to the other, though. Jaipur has the traditional Rajasthani thali, with staples like basmati rice, dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, bajre ki roti, churma laddoos, papads, and pickles. Bikaner is popular for namkeen dishes, paneer bhujia, tamatar sev, methi bhujia, and achari mathri. When you step into Jodhpur, you will be greeted with Rajasthani chaat and Lassis.  Bharatpur is famous for milk-based sweets. A unique aspect of Rajasthani cuisine is that desserts are not eaten after the main course, but rather with it. Some of the most popular desserts and sweets include laddoos, halwas, chakkis, makhane ka kheer and jhajharia. Those of you who want to have Malpua can go to Pushkar, and for Ajmer, Sohan Halwa is best.

Pyaaz Ki Kachori is a very popular snack, which is stuffed with onions and spices. It is accompanied by chutneys and yoghurt. You will often find it in the chaats. Kadhi is another popular Rajasthani recipe made from besan and pakoras in a gravy. Rajasthani kadhi is richer and spicier than other kadhis. Boondi Raita is a popular and refreshing dish made from fried chickpea balls, called Boondi. It is soaked in yoghurt and mint leaves mixture, and is served as a cold side dish. Owing to the dry weather, yoghurt and buttermilk gets a lot of attention in Rajasthan.