A Peek Into Malvani Cuisine’s Lesser-Known Vegetarian Delicacies, History & Traditional Practices

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Nestled in the coastal fringe of Maharashtra, Malvan’s untouched greenery, pristine beaches and clear azure water make it one of India’s most underrated holiday destinations. If you’re looking for a quiet vacation amidst endless stretches of coconut trees, Malvan is the perfect place to go, as it’s not majorly caught tourists’ attention yet. And when you’re here, you simply can’t miss the tropical flavors of Malvani cuisine.

A hint of tangy kokum, a sweet sprinkle of coconut and a dash of regional masalas come together to make Malvani Cuisine an irresistible gastronomical experience. Anybody who has tasted Malvani food can vouch for the fact that it can tug at your heart with its aromatic spice blends and tantalizing sweet & sour delicacies. 

The quaint town, located in the Sindhudurg district, shares borders with Goa and Karnataka. Thus, one can trace the influence of these states in the Malvani cuisine. In fact, the use of ground coconut in their curries can be linked to the age-old culinary practice in the Saraswat Brahmin Cuisine. 

While Malvan’s seafood is more popular, in this article, we will take you through the lesser known vegetarian delicacies of Malvani cuisine, which are equally epic in their flavors. We’ll also delve into Malvan’s traditional cooking methods. Let’s get started?

Brief History & Types of Malvani Vegetarian Dishes

According to various food researchers, Malvani cuisine traces its origin to the 16th century when fishing communities settled down along the coastline of Maharashtra, Goa and northern Karnataka. Naturally, fish became integral to Malvani cooking. Interestingly though, the food cooked by the Konkanastha Brahmins in Malvan is completely vegetarian, showcasing a unique diversity of culinary traditions. 

Another unique feature of Malvani cuisine is its general preference for pan-fried and deep-fried foods, offering a variety in texture. It also includes an array of flatbreads made of rice, wheat, and millet flours, presenting a healthy alternative to the popular maida-based flatbreads. 

Malvani Cuisine is also renowned for its unique dessert recipes, such as the cucumber cake or Dhondas, the steamed Patolya or the boiled rice Laddus! Each dish imparts an unforgettable medley of flavors that warms the palate and stirs the soul of every food lover.

23 Savory Vegetarian Dishes Of Malvani Cuisine

1. Solkadhi/Solkadi

This tangy summer drink is a popular Malvani beverage prepared with kokum fruit, coconut milk and Indian spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Often enjoyed along with or after a meal, Solkadhi is known for its cooling, appetizing and digestive benefits. It’s also a naturally vegan drink, making it the perfect plant-based replacement for buttermilk. 

2. Kokum Sharbat

The Kokum Sharbat is a refreshing drink made from kokum fruits that are popular and widely available in the Western Ghats. The dark reddish color of the fruit lends an eye-catching hue to the beverage and helps you beat the summer heat. Kokum Sharbat is also believed to aid digestion and boost appetite. 

TWT Trivia: Among the 35 species of Kokum (Garcinia Indica) indigenous to India, the Kokum variety from Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri districts of Maharashtra, boasts a GI tag.

3. Alu Vadi

Alu Vadi is a crispy, fritter-like snack popularly enjoyed in the Malvani, Maharashtrian and Gujarati cuisines. It is prepared by layering tender colocasia leaves in a spiced batter of gram flour, rice flour, Indian spices, sesame seeds and jaggery. The leaves are rolled like Maki-Sushi, steamed, sliced and fried to perfection.

4. Kelphulachi Bhaji

A well-loved Malvani side-dish, the Kelphulachi Bhaji is made from banana blossoms cooked with grated coconut and Malvani masala. This traditional spicy veg dish can be enjoyed with hot rice at the beginning of a meal.  

5. Ghavane With Coconut Chutney

The Malvani Ghavane or Ghavan is a type of rice crepe, similar to the Mangalorean Neer Dosa, which is prepared with fresh rice-flour batter. The deliciously soft Ghavane is often paired with spicy coconut chutney.

6. Bharwa Karele Ki Sabji

Amongst many Malvani vegetable dishes, the stuffed bitter gourd is a popular one for its crispy texture and unique fusion of flavors. The stuffing is usually prepared with crushed peanuts, jaggery, whole Indian spices, and ghee (clarified butter), all cooked in Malvani Masala.

Did You Know?

Apart from the Malvani masala, the Malvani Vatan/Watap (or paste) also forms the base of many Malvani curries. The Vatan is prepared with dry and freshly grated coconut, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices. All ingredients are sautéed and coarsely blended into a paste and later used in combination with the Malvani Masala to create distinct flavors characteristic of the Malvani cuisine. 

7. Malvani Bharli Vangi

This mouthwatering stuffed brinjal curry is a popular coconut-based dish in Malvani Cuisine. Tender brinjals are filled with a savory mixture of sauteed and coarsely ground peanuts, coconut, sesame seeds, ginger, garlic, whole Indian spices and Malvani Masala. The stuffed brinjals are then cooked in a vibrant Malvani Masala gravy base to create a delicacy that is rich and flavorful.

8. Pithi Bhaat

This traditional Malvani recipe of Pithi is made with roasted and ground horse gram. The powdered horse gram is cooked into a gravy and seasoned with green chillies, garlic, asfoetida, garam masala, red chilli powder, and kokum fruit, and enjoyed with hot rice.

9. Malvani Vade

Vade are round, deep fried Indian flatbread rolled from a dough made of rice, wheat, jowar flours, split black gram lentils, and chana dal. Spices such as fenugreek, turmeric, cumin, fennel, coriander, carom seeds, and black peppercorns are added to the dough for flavor. Vade are a healthy alternative to Puri that are made of maida flour.

10. Phanasachi Bhaji

This is a delicious vegetarian side dish made from raw jackfruits. The meaty flavor of jackruits, along with the richness of coconuts, and robust flavors of Malvani Masala can surpass most non-vegetarian dishes.

11. Malvani Kurkuri Bhindi

A delicious vegetable side dish, Malvani Kurkuri Bhindi is made with okra or ladies fingers. The crisp of perfectly fried okra sprinkled with roasted peanuts along with the bold coastal flavors of Malvani Masala makes it a great complimentary dish to any meal.

12. Tandalachi Bhakri/Rice Bhakri

Rice Bhakri is a handmade flat bread prepared from rice flour. This authentic Malvani dish is often layered with ghee (clarified butter) and paired with various Malvani gravies. 

13. Shevgyachya Bhaji

A delicious vegetable curry made of drumsticks, the Shevgyachya Bhaji is a perfect side to a homely Malvani lunch or dinner meal. In this recipe tender drumsticks are cooked in a rich gravy of onions, dried coconut, Malvani Masala and whole Indian spices creating a burst of flavors and warmth that is characteristic of the Malvani cuisine.  

14. Malvani Veg Rassa

The Malvani Rassa is a vibrant, coconut-based gravy that often acts as an aromatic base to various non-veg dishes. However, it is equally delectable when prepared as a vegetarian dish and pairs well with steaming rice. The vegetarian version is crafted with a blend of onion, fresh coconut, and Malvani Masala that brings out the unique flavors of the Malvani Cuisine. 

15. Tikhat Dashami

The Tikhat Dashmi is a spicy, stuffed flatbread cherished as a festive delicacy in the Malvani cuisine. The dough, a blend of wheat, bajra, Kalna and Bengal gram flours is infused with garlic, chilli, coriander leaves, tamarind, and Indian spices to create a unique flavor profile. Tikhat Dashami is often served with an Usal (legume curry).  

Did You Know? 

The popular Malvani masala that sprinkles magic on Malvani food is prepared through an artful blend of 16 or more Indian spices! These include turmeric, cumin, coriander seeds, cloves, poppy seeds, cinnamon, red chillies, caraway seeds, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, star anise, bay leaf, fenugreek seeds, wild mace, stone flower, Kabab Chini, asafoetida, nagkesar and more. 

16. Malvani Godi Dal

Malvani Godi dal is made of Toor Dal or pigeon pea. The dal is seasoned with onion, tomato, coriander leaves, curry leaves, cumin, and mustard seeds. However, what sets it apart from regular dal recipes is the addition of coconut and jaggery, which lends a mild sweetness to balance the savory nature of the dish. The Malvani Godi Dal is a lunchtime staple and a regular in traditional Malvani thalis.

17. Khaproli

Kharpolis are thick, savory crepes that were traditionally cooked on mud griddles known as Khapar from which they derive their name. The batter is prepared with rice, Urad Dal, Chana Dal and seasoned with fenugreek seeds, cumin and salt. Kharpolis are usually served with fresh coconut chutney or sweet Ras – a delightful side crafted with jaggery and freshly grated coconuts.

18. Malvani Olya Kaju Chi Bhaji

The Malvani Kaju (cashew) Curry is a fiery, robust preparation that packs in a punch. This coconut-based dish features raw cashew nuts simmered in a flavorful, spice-infused gravy. Often served with steamed rice, the rich, creamy preparation offers a satisfying burst of flavors on the palate. 

19. Shevgyachya Palyachi Bhaji

This nutrious Malvani dish is known for its immense health benefits. It is made with moringa or drumstick leaves cooked in a rich blend of sauteed onions, green chillies, garlic, coconut and aromatic spices. The slight bitterness of moringa is well-balanced by the flavors of other ingredients, making it a delectable dish for all palates.

20. Ambyacha Raita

Ambyacha Raita or mango curry is a yummy sweet and sour summer dish in the Malvan region. The curry is usually prepared with the Raival variety of mangoes, that are locally available. The mangoes are cooked in a coconut based gravy that is seasoned with mustard seeds, red chilli, and jaggery and enjoyed with rice.

21. Kalya Vatanyachi Usal

Kalya Vatanyachi Usal or Kala Vatana Sambar is a signature Malvani dish made from dry black peas cooked in a spicy coconut-based gravy. The curry is infused with aromatic Indian whole spices and Malvani Masala, giving it a rich, bold flavor. Traditionally enjoyed with rice, roti or bread, this Usal (curry made with legumes) leaves a comforting warm feel on the palate that is characteristic of the coastal Malvani cuisine. 

22. Shirvale

Shirvale is rice flour noodles that are reminiscent of Kerala’s Idiyappam. And quite like it, Shirvale is also served with sweetened coconut milk.

23. Kothimbir Vadi

The Malvani coriander fritter or Kothimbir Vadi is a lip-smacking snack perfectly suitable for family and festive gatherings. It is prepared from a blend of freshly chopped coriander, green chilli and Indian spices that are made into a dough and deep fried. The fritters are crispy on the outside and deliciously soft and savoury on the inside. 

8 Delectable Malvani Desserts

Malvani Khaja

The Malvani Khaja is a sweet-savoury pastry traditionally prepared for celebratory occasions. These gram flour sticks are dipped in a mixture of jaggery and ghee (clarified butter) and then sprinkled with black sesame seeds for a unique nutty flavor. The Khaja’s light, crispy, and rich taste makes it an irresistible festive treat. 

Dhondas

Dhondas or cucumber cake is an all-time favorite Malvani dessert. Made with freshly grated cucumber, coconut, roasted semolina, ghee, dry fruits, cardamom powder and sweetened with jaggery, this timeless treat captures the warmth of celebrations.  

Malvani Ukdya Tandalache (Boiled Rice) Laddus 

Another Malvani festive favorite, the boiled rice laddus blend health with festive joys. They are made from mildly roasted and finely ground boiled rice flour, infused with ghee, jaggery, cashews, cardamom powder and grated coconut. The mixture is then hand pressed into round balls or laddus that offer a healthy balanced sweetness in every bite. 

Malvani Malpua

The Malvani Malpua is specially made during the Islamic festival of Ramzan. This deep-fried dessert prepared with maida flour, ghee, jaggery and seasoned with cumin is a sweet treat for every special occasion.

Amba Poli

This sweet treat is a Malvani summer specialty. It is made from fresh mango pulp that is seasoned with a dash of chilli powder. The pulp is spread out on round plates and allowed to sun-dry. It is then peeled off to make Aam papad or Amba Poli. A similar delicacy is Phanas Poli prepared from ripe jackfruit pulp. 

Malvani Narlachi Kap

Narlachi Kap is a sweetmeat prepared from coconut during festive occasions.

Tandalachi Kheer

This special Malvani rice kheer is traditionally prepared on Undarpi or the second day of Ganesh Chaturthi. It is prepared with locally available short-grain aromatic rice called Ambemohar that is boiled in sweetened milk. It is seasoned with grated coconut, cardamom, almond and saffron.

Patolya

This sweet dish closely resembles the Tamil Kozhukattai. It is prepared by carefully stuffing a rice dough with a sweet coconut-jaggery filling and steaming it in a banana leaf wrapping. The patolya is also a special dessert in the Malvani Cuisine traditionally prepared for Ganesh Chaturthi.

TWT Trivia: Though Malvani Cuisine is known for its fiery, bold taste, the Konkanastha Brahmin cuisine is vegetarian, comparatively bland yet deliciously flavorful. 

Traditional Practices Followed In Malvani Food Preparation 

Traditional Malvani cuisine is prepared in vessels that lend the food a true earthy flavor while infusing it with health benefitting minerals. While the Ukhal and Muskal (mortar and pestle) are often preferred for grinding dry Malvani masala, the Pata Varvanta (grinding stone) is used for making wet pastes. Dishes like Ghavane (rice crepe) are prepared in thick-bottom pans known as Bhida, while Bhakris (flatbread) are cooked in Tawas. 

The Malvani masala, an irreplaceable ingredient, is now easily available in stores across India. However, it is the aroma of fresh spices ground together with grated coconut that breathes life into Malvani Cuisine to curate a meal steeped in flavor and heritage.

How Is Malvani Cuisine Special?

Being a coastal cuisine, Malvani recipes liberally use coconut in varied forms — fresh, dried and coconut milk. Another aspect that sets Malvani cuisine apart from other traditional cuisines in India is the use of Malvani Masala, a freshly ground unique blend of 15-16 spices, the Malvani vatan (paste) and the addition of kokum, tamarind and raw mango to their dishes. The cooking style beautifully balances the kick of spice with a touch of sweetness or tanginess to create an unforgettable symphony of flavors, which appeal to both young and the old. 

TWT Summary

Malvani cuisine is a celebration of coastal flavors, aromatic spices, and age-old culinary traditions passed down through ages. While seafood dominates the Malvani Cuisine, it also boasts a variety of vegetarian delicacies that capture the regional flavors. 

Fierce flavors of red chilli, pepper, triphala, cloves, and kabab chini in the Malvani masala are delicately balanced with the sweetness of coconut and tangy taste of raw mango, tamarind and kokum. Hence, sweet, sour and spicy flavors are delicately woven to tease the taste buds while creating a sensory experience too unique to pen in words.  

So, the next time you are visiting Malvan or come across a restaurant serving Malvani dishes, we highly recommend you give it a try. Indulging into a traditional Malvani Thali featuring Kothambir Vadi, Vade, Bhakri, Bhaji, Dal, Usal, Kaju Curry, Dhonda paired with a soothing glass of Solkadhi or Kokum Sharbat, will leave you with a truly soul-satisfying gastronomic experience that lingers on long after the meal. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Veg Malvani Cuisine

1. What are the key ingredients used in Malvani dishes?

The key ingredients used in Malvani cuisine are coconut, kokum, raw mango, tamarind, red chilli, dried mango powder, Malvani masala (aromatic blend of 16 spices) and Malvani vatan (paste).

2. How does Malvani cuisine differ from other regional cuisines in India?

What makes Malvani cuisine different from other Indian cuisines is the liberal use of various forms of coconut, Malvani masala, red chilli and kokum fruit. These unique ingredients lend a robust flavour and vibrant color to Malvani dishes.

3. Are there any signature vegetarian dishes that are synonymous with Malvani cuisine?

Some signature delicacies in the Malvani cuisine are Solkadi, Kokum Sharbat, Kothimbir Vadi, Ghavane, Malvani Vade, Tandalachi Bhakri, Malvani Olya Kaju Chi Bhaji, Pithi Bhaat, Ambyacha Raita, Malvani Khaja, Malvani Malpua and Dhondas. 

4. Apart from Malvan, where else can we find Malvani food? 

Malvani food is easily available in various restaurants serving traditional cuisine across Mumbai and Goa.

5. Which are the best eateries in Malvan for the local food? 

Some of the popular eateries in Malvan that are a must-visit for food explorers are Hotel Atithi Bamboo, Tamhankar’s Konkan Cultural Treat, Konkan Fusion Food Adda, Gajalee Hotel, Swami, Hotel Chaitanya- Authentic Malvani Cuisine, Fish N Curry, Ruchira Hotel, Coconut Palm Garden Restaurant, Guru’s Kitchen, Hotel Shirgaonkar, Sugaran Khanaval, Shrawani Pure Veg Malvan and Vijaya Bakery. 

6. What is the difference between Konkan and Malvani cuisine? 

Konkan usually refers to the entire coastal stretch of Maharashtra and Goa. Whereas, Malvan is a town in the Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra. Hence, Malvani cuisine is a part of Konkani cuisine. However, not all Konkan cuisine is Malvani. 

 

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