The heartland of India, Madhya Pradesh is a culturally rich state that offers a lot beyond historical monuments, intricately carved temples, stupas, forts and palaces. Its vibrant cuisine is the one that deserves a separate discussion altogether. The cuisine, which takes inspiration from its neighboring states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, is a mix of flavours that one can explore in its capital city of Bhopal, and other parts of the state like Ujjain and Indore. While you’ll find wheat more prominent in the north part of MP, rice is more common in the southern regions. Yet, certain tribal flavours too make their presence felt.
Here are seven foods from the heartland of India, you must try. No, it isn’t just limited to a vegetarian fare!
1. Poha Jalebi
If there’s one thing no other state can do better, it has to be Poha! And Poha Jalebi is the most loved breakfast dish of Madhya Pradesh. Tantalising poha topped with crispy bits of namkeen along with sweet jalebis is perhaps one of the most comforting ways to start the day. While Bhopal is undoubtedly one of the best places to grab a plateful, Indore also have an amazing street food culture where one can nosh upon piping hot and crispy jalebas (king-sized jalebis).
2. Dal Bafla
Dal Bafla can be called a close cousin of Rajasthan’s Dal Baati as it tastes similarly and is served in many parts of Madhya Pradesh. Bafla is a delicious treat of the wheat balls well cooked in ghee. It has crispy wheat baked wheat balls that are dunked in ghee and eaten with spicy dal, pickles or curry. The dish is well complemented with with some coriander chutney on the side too.
3. Chakki Ki Shaak
Another one with an influence from Rajasthan, Chakki ki Shaak is nothing but steamed wheat dough served with curries and curd. A popular side dish served on various feasts and special occasions, Chakki Ki Shaak is sure to make you impress even if you are full!
4. Mawa Bati
You may confuse it with a Gulab Jamun, just a little bigger in size, but Mawa Bati is actually that. Just that the mawa dough comes stuffed with chopped dry fruits and cardamom powder. It is the dessert that perhaps seal the cuisine of Madhya Pradesh with its rich texture and sweet flavour.
5. Bhutte Ka Kees
6. Bhopali Gosht Korma
Influenced by the Mughlai cuisine, Bhopali Gosht Korma is one fo the most prominent delicacies from the city of Bhopal. Made by slow cooking the mutton chunks in a rich and spicy gravy, this korma is a part of Nawabi cuisine. It is a mouth-watering mutton dish that is perfect for feasts!
7. Seekh Kebab
Yes, your very own seekh kebabs made from minced meats wrapped around a skewer and cooked on coals, are a treat in the capital city of Bhopal. And just like Lucknow, Bhopal is known for dishing out some of the most sumptuous kebabs at its Chatori Gali.
