Also known as the “cultural capital” of Andhra Pradesh, Rajahmundry boasts a rich and storied history. Over the years, it has been governed by numerous forces, including the noble Chalukyas to the colonial British. Each of these empires has had an impact on the cuisine of the city, which offers an eclectic mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties. Bobbatlu is a decadent sweet dish relished throughout Andhra Pradesh; visit the local joint Sri Bhakatanjeneya Sweets and Bakery to sample bobbatlu in Rajahmundry.
Rajahmundry’s proximity to the Godavari River has also influenced the food culture of the city. For example, owing to the river, fresh fish is a staple in the local dishes of the city. Similarly, the city is abundant in paddy fields, and therefore, rice is also extensively consumed by the people of Rajahmundry. Traditional Rajahmundry dishes are characterised by a smoky blend of spices, featuring tamarind prominently; the dishes are also imbued with an enticing fragrance, beckoning food lovers from everywhere.
Check out the top 7 local dishes of Rajahmundry.
Pulihora
Also known as “tamarind rice,” pulihora is frequently served during Andhra festivals and special occasions like weddings and birthdays. The simple but soulful dish integrates a range of ingredients, including tamarind, mustard seeds, curry leaves, red chilli powder, roasted peanuts, turmeric, ginger, and green chillis to form a deeply inviting and aromatic dish. Pulihora also has religious significance; it’s typically offered as a prasad item at local Andhra temples.
Recommendations: Puliyogare Palace
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹300, approx.
Ponganalu
Image Credits: By Irrigator - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons
Ponganalu are soft and velvety bite-sized snacks savoured throughout Andhra Pradesh. These delightful ball-shaped dumplings are typically crafted from a fermented rice and urad dal batter. Certain recipes also incorporate ingredients like onions, carrots, green chillies, ginger, and garlic to elevate the taste profile of the dish. Popularly consumed as a breakfast item or an evening snack, ponganalu are usually eaten alongside a spicy green chutney or a pungent peanut chutney.
Recommendations: Vinayaka Guntha Ponganalu and Idly Center
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹150, approx.
Miryala Rasam
Image Credits: By Miansari66 - Own work, Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons
Widely considered a comfort food across Andhra Pradesh, miryala rasam, also known as “pepper rasam,” is a soothing and a flavour-packed soup-like dish. Composed primarily of ingredients, such as tamarind juice, tomatoes, and peppers, this delicacy usually forms a key component of traditional full-fledged Andhra meals. Cumin seeds, garlic paste, and fresh coriander leaves are also added to the dish to enhance its taste. Rasam is usually savoured with rice or rotis.
Recommendations: Flavours Of Andhra
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹400, approx.
Pesarattu
Image Credits: By ukanda - Pesarattu and Ginger chutneyUploaded by Diádoco, CC BY 2.0/Wikimedia Commons
Pesarattu is a cherished breakfast item in Andhra Pradesh. Crafted from green gram lentils and spices, such as cumin, green chillies, and ginger, this thin and crispy savoury pancake boasts several health benefits. For instance, being packed with protein and vital nutrients and minerals, the dish helps fortify bones and aids in weight management. Pesarattu is typically served in accompaniment with a tangy ginger chutney and upma.
Recommendations: New Hotel Prasanthi
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹200, approx.
Godavari Chicken Fry
Godavari chicken fry is a punchy appetiser wherein chunks of chicken are marinated in special spices, and subsequently stir-fried. Ingredients that go into the preparation of this dish include coriander seeds, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom. Lemon juice, turmeric, red chilli powder, onions, garam masala, and ginger garlic paste also contribute the dish its signature tangy and rustic flavours. The dish is usually garnished with fresh coriander leaves, and also makes for a satisfying evening snack.
Recommendations: Sri Kanya Grand
Type: Non-Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹450, approx.
Royyala Iguru
Image Credits: By Keerthi93 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons
Royyala iguru is a prawn curry that showcases the impressive range of Rajahmundry’s seafood. A delicious stir-fry dish, the recipe of royyala iguru is quite straightforward; apart from prawns, it comprises onions plus spices, including green chillies, cumin, turmeric, curry leaves, red chilli powder, and garam masala. The prawns are marinated in a smoky masala made from the aforementioned ingredients to form the aromatic dish. This specialty can be enjoyed with rice or rotis.
Recommendations: Vantillu Family Restaurant
Type: Non-Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹350, approx.
Bobbatlu
Bobbatlu is Andhra Pradesh’s iteration of the beloved sweet dish, puran poli. To craft this melt-in-the-mouth dessert, flatbreads are stuffed with a sweet-savoury filling usually consisting of jaggery, lentils, and cardamom. Bobbatlu is typically cooked in ghee, which gives the treat its luscious quality. A festive favourite, bobbatlu is popularly served during Andhra festivals and special events, such as weddings. The dish can be enjoyed with butter, ghee, and occasionally, even milk.
Recommendations: Sri Bhakatanjeneya Sweets and Bakery
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹200, approx.
