Unmissable delicacies from Surat
The cities in India are altogether a different cosmos in themselves. The fact that each one of them is so different from one another is fascinating in itself. Be it the language spoken, tradition, culture or food habits—all change every hundred kilometres in the subcontinent. This ‘constant change’ in the country is what makes it unique, exceptional and charming.
In the western part of India, lies the city of Surat. Located in the state of Gujarat, the city is famous for its diamond cutting and polishing and is known as the “Diamond City of India.” Even more interestingly, Surat is famous for its delectable food. This is proven by a popular Gujarati saying, “Eat in Surat and die in Kashi for the ultimate experience of the soul.” Here is a look at some mouthwatering dishes from Surat you must try.
Locho
An extremely popular snack, Locho has a mild sweet taste and can be found on every street hawker’s menu. Usually served with green chutney and crispy sev, there are many amazing varieties of the snack like Schezwan and Italian Locho.
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Ghari
Ghari is a sweet Gujarati dish from Surat. It is made of puri batter, milk 'mawa', ghee and sugar - made into round shapes with a sweet filling. It is also available in many varieties and flavours such as pistachio and almond-elaichi. As per legends, Ghari was prepared by Devshankar Shukla in 1838 for Tatya Tope to provide extra strength to the freedom fighters in 1857.
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Surati Sev Khamani
A popular breakfast and evening snack, Surati Sev Khamani is made from chana dal and a variety of spices. It has a spicy-tangy taste which is further elevated by the addition of a unique combination of ingredients like ginger, sugar, chillies, garlic and pepper powders. The dish is garnished with besan sev, which adds a crunchy texture.
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Undhiyu
It is a combination of 8 special vegetables grown in Surat. The dish derives its name from the Gujarati word 'Undhu', which means being upside down. The vegetables are stirred well upside down in special earthenware utensils to give Undhiyu its superb taste.
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Ponk Vada
Ponk refers to fresh Jowar grains in the Gujarati language. Ponk Vadas are pakoras made of tender jowar grains. This local Gujarati snack is loved by tourists from across the country. It is a very popular and healthy winter snack.
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Collegian Bhel
If you ever come across someone who spent their student life in Surat, they will surely tell you what a delight Collegian is! Because of its crunchy texture and easy to prepare method, it is a favourite of every student. Easily available at every vendor’s stall, Collegian is made from peanuts, onion, tomato and chilli with crunchy sev dressing.
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Ice Dish
It is a different version of the popular Ice Gola, which is very popular all over India. Ice Dish is dressed in vanilla ice cream, a generous amount of cream, dry fruits and different flavours to make this unique dessert.
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Rassawala Khaman Dhokla
Rassawala Khaman Dhokla is another variety of Khaman that is a very popular street food of Surat. It is a harmonious juxtaposition of sweetness and tanginess. It consists of crumbled vati dal na khaman, a raso or gravy prepared from a mixture of dal and some salad.
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