India’s 28 States and Their Signature Dishes

Published in the Sunday Gujarat Samachar on 25 August, 2024

Let’s take a moment to play a delicious game today. Imagine a map of India laid out before you, each state bursting with its own unique flavours, traditions, and stories. India, as we know, is home to 28 incredible states, each with its own cultural heritage and culinary delights.

So, just like Sunila and I did on the latest episode of our video series Travel Explore Celebrate Life, what if we embarked on a journey across these states, not by road or rail, but by our taste buds? For every state, let’s think of one dish that is so iconic, so deeply tied to its roots, that just the mention of it transports you there. Ready to play? You can check out the video episode by scanning the QR code below:

Grab a notepad and pen because this article is not just about reading—it's about playing along! As we journey through the 28 states of India, I want you to jot down what dish comes to mind when you think of each state. Write it down! Then, as you read on, compare your thoughts with what I've shared—famous dishes and unique flavours from each state. Let's see how well you know India and discover some hidden gems along the way. Ready? Let's play!

1. Andhra Pradesh - Gongura Pachadi: A tangy and spicy chutney made from Gongura (sorrel leaves), it's a popular accompaniment in Andhra cuisine.

2. Arunachal Pradesh - Zan: A traditional dish made from millet or corn flour, Zan is often served with a variety of vegetables and is a staple in many parts of Arunachal Pradesh.

3. Assam - Masor Tenga (Vegetarian version): A tangy dish made with vegetables like tomatoes, lemons, and sometimes bamboo shoots, offering the characteristic flavours of Assamese cuisine.

4. Bihar - Litti Chokha: A rustic dish made from wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed vegetables, Litti Chokha is the pride of Bihar.

5. Chhattisgarh - Chila: A savoury pancake made from rice and lentils, Chila is a beloved breakfast dish in Chhattisgarh, simple yet delicious.

6. Goa - Sol Kadhi: A refreshing coconut milk and kokum-based drink, often enjoyed as a digestive after a meal, it’s a Goan favourite that’s completely vegetarian.

7. Gujarat - Dhokla: Light, spongy, and tangy, Dhokla is a steamed snack that’s become synonymous with Gujarati cuisine.

8. Haryana - Bajra Khichdi: A simple yet nourishing dish made from pearl millet, Bajra Khichdi is a staple in Haryana, especially during the winter months.

9. Himachal Pradesh - Dham: A traditional Himachali feast served during festivals, Dham includes rice, dal, and vegetables, all cooked in a special way that’s unique to the region.

10. Jharkhand - Thekua: A deep-fried sweet snack made from wheat flour, jaggery, and coconut, Thekua is a popular dish, especially during festivals.

11. Karnataka - Mysore Masala Dosa: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, filled with a spicy potato mixture, Mysore Masala Dosa is a beloved breakfast dish in Karnataka.

12. Kerala - Appam with Vegetable Stew: Soft and fluffy Appams paired with a coconut milk-based vegetable stew is a quintessential Keralite breakfast.

13. Madhya Pradesh - Poha: Poha is a breakfast staple in Madhya Pradesh, garnished with sev, peanuts, and a squeeze of lemon.

14. Maharashtra - Vada Pav: Known as the Indian burger to the rest of the world, Vada Pav is the soul food of Mumbai.

15. Manipur - Chamthong (Kangshoi): A vegetable stew made with seasonal greens, herbs, and spices, Chamthong is a simple yet nutritious dish in Manipuri cuisine.

16. Meghalaya - Pukhlein: A traditional sweet dish made from rice flour and jaggery, Pukhlein is deep-fried and enjoyed as a snack in Meghalaya.

17. Mizoram - Chhangban: A sticky rice dish, often enjoyed with boiled vegetables and a light dressing, Chhangban is a staple in Mizoram.

18. Nagaland - Axone with Vegetables: Fermented soybeans (Axone) cooked with a variety of vegetables, offering a unique flavour profile that is integral to Naga cuisine.

19. Odisha - Pakhala Bhata: A refreshing dish made from fermented rice and water, often served with fried or mashed vegetables, Pakhala Bhata is a summer staple in Odisha.

20. Punjab - Sarson ka Saag with Makki di Roti: A winter favourite, this dish combines mustard greens with cornmeal flatbreads, embodying the robust flavours of Punjab.

21. Rajasthan - Dal Baati Churma: A quintessential Rajasthani dish, Dal Baati Churma is a combination of lentils, baked wheat balls, and sweet crumbled wheat, symbolising the state’s royal heritage.

22. Sikkim - Phagshapa (Vegetarian version): Traditionally made with meat, the vegetarian version uses radish and dried chilies, offering a similar spicy and tangy flavour that’s loved in Sikkim.

23. Tamil Nadu - Pongal: A comforting dish made from rice and lentils, Pongal is often served during festivals and special occasions in Tamil Nadu.

24. Telangana - Pesarattu: A dosa-like dish made from green gram (moong dal), Pesarattu is a popular breakfast option in Telangana.

25. Tripura - Gudok (Vegetarian version): Typically a fish dish, the vegetarian version of Gudok is made with bamboo shoots, lentils, and local spices, reflecting the flavours of Tripura.

26. Uttar Pradesh - Kachori with Aloo Sabzi: A deep-fried snack filled with spiced lentils, served with a flavourful potato curry, it’s a breakfast favourite in Uttar Pradesh.

27. Uttarakhand - Aloo ke Gutke: A simple yet flavourful dish made from spiced potatoes, Aloo ke Gutke is a comfort food staple in Uttarakhand.

28. West Bengal - Rasgulla: A soft, syrupy dessert made from chhena, Rasgulla is a beloved sweet that originated in West Bengal and is now famous across India.

And there you have it—a delicious and diverse journey through the 28 states of India! I hope you enjoyed this culinary and cultural adventure as much as I did. As you compared your notes, did any of the dishes or travel tips surprise you? Perhaps you discovered a new dish to try or a destination to add to your travel bucket list. I would love to know, so write to me at neil@veenaworld.com

India's vast and varied landscape offers something unique in every corner, from the flavours on your plate to the experiences awaiting your exploration. So whether you're a foodie, a traveller, or both, remember that every state has its own story to tell—one that's rich with history, culture, and of course, mouthwatering cuisine. Keep this list handy for your next culinary adventure or travel itinerary, and until then, happy exploring and keep Celebrating Life!