Ujjain, apart from its spiritual allure, offers a vibrant food scene that is perfect for food lovers. The city offers a delightful mix of traditional Indian street food, local specialties, and sweets that you simply can’t miss. Whether you’re visiting temples or exploring the markets, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 10 foods to try in Ujjain. This list will ensure that your culinary experience is as enriching as your cultural one!
1. Poha
Where to Try: Shree Mahakaleshwar Bhojanalay, Local Street Vendors
About: Poha is a popular breakfast dish in Ujjain and throughout Madhya Pradesh. Made from flattened rice, it is cooked with mustard seeds, turmeric, and green chilies, garnished with fresh coriander, pomegranate, and sev (crispy noodles). It’s a light, healthy, and flavorful dish.
What to Try:
- Poha with Jalebi: A traditional combination of salty poha and sweet jalebi makes for a perfect breakfast.
Cost per Plate: ₹30 – ₹50
Best For: Breakfast lovers or anyone looking for a traditional, flavorful start to the day.
2. Sabudana Khichdi
Where to Try: Sarafa Bazaar, Harsiddhi Market
About: Sabudana Khichdi is a popular snack in Ujjain, particularly during fasting periods. Made from tapioca pearls (sabudana), it is sautéed with peanuts, spices, and potatoes. It’s light yet filling and comes with a satisfying crunch from the peanuts.
What to Try:
- Sabudana Khichdi with curd: It’s a wonderful combination of flavors and textures.
Cost per Plate: ₹50 – ₹100
Best For: Those seeking a light, filling snack or a dish to try during religious observances.
3. Kachori with Aloo Sabzi
Where to Try: Bhavani Shankar, Agrawal Store
About: Kachori with Aloo Sabzi is a classic snack that’s both crispy and flavorful. The kachori is stuffed with a spicy mixture and deep-fried to golden perfection. It is served with a delicious potato curry (Aloo Sabzi) on the side. This dish is commonly found at Ujjain’s local stalls and markets.
What to Try:
- Kachori with Chole: Sometimes served with a tangy chickpea curry for an enhanced flavor.
Cost per Plate: ₹40 – ₹80
Best For: Those looking for a hearty and savory snack.
4. Dahi Puri
Where to Try: Gopal Chaat, Near Gopal Mandir
About: Dahi Puri is a refreshing and tangy snack made by filling crisp puris with yogurt, tamarind chutney, and spices. It’s a great way to cool off after visiting the temples and provides a burst of flavor with every bite.
What to Try:
- Dahi Puri with Pani Puri: For a combination of spicy and tangy flavors.
Cost per Plate: ₹30 – ₹70
Best For: Foodies craving a mix of flavors and street food lovers.
5. Bhutte Ka Kees
Where to Try: Shree Mahakaleshwar Bhojanalay, Local Street Vendors
About: A unique dish from Madhya Pradesh, Bhutte Ka Kees is made from grated corn cooked with spices and milk. It’s a must-try for anyone interested in local culinary traditions. It’s flavorful, mildly spicy, and provides a satisfying texture.
What to Try:
- Bhutte Ka Kees with a glass of fresh lime juice: A traditional pairing.
Cost per Plate: ₹50 – ₹80
Best For: Those looking to try something unique to the region.
6. Pani Puri
Where to Try: Chhappal Bhel, Sarafa Bazaar
About: Pani Puri is a famous Indian snack and a must-have in Ujjain. The crispy puris are filled with spicy tamarind water, potatoes, and chickpeas. It’s a tangy, spicy, and refreshing treat that is always in high demand.
What to Try:
- Pani Puri with sweet and spicy tamarind water.
Cost per Plate: ₹30 – ₹70
Best For: Tourists looking for a classic Indian snack with tangy flavors.
7. Chana Chaat
Where to Try: Ujjain Haat, Shreeji Garden Market
About: Chana Chaat is a simple yet delicious snack made from boiled chickpeas mixed with chopped vegetables, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and tangy spices. It’s a refreshing, healthy, and spicy snack that’s perfect for a light meal.
What to Try:
- Chana Chaat with lemon: The lemon enhances the flavor, making it more refreshing.
Cost per Plate: ₹30 – ₹60
Best For: Those looking for a nutritious yet flavorful snack.
8. Gajar Halwa
Where to Try: Anand Sweets, Local Sweet Shops
About: Gajar Halwa is a popular Indian dessert made from grated carrots, sugar, ghee, and milk. It’s cooked slowly to achieve a rich, creamy texture and is garnished with nuts. It’s a must-try sweet in Ujjain and perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
What to Try:
- Gajar Halwa with Ice Cream: A delightful pairing for dessert lovers.
Cost per Serving: ₹50 – ₹100
Best For: Dessert lovers looking for a traditional Indian sweet.
9. Khopra Patties
Where to Try: Local Street Vendors, Anand Sweets
About: Khopra Patties are deep-fried snacks filled with coconut and spices, creating a sweet and savory flavor. The outer layer is crispy, and the inside offers a unique blend of coconut and seasoning.
What to Try:
- Khopra Patties with a glass of fresh buttermilk: A refreshing combination.
Cost per Piece: ₹20 – ₹50
Best For: Those looking for a sweet-savory snack with local flavors.
10. Jalebi
Where to Try: Anand Sweets, Local Sweet Shops
About: Jalebi is a classic Indian sweet made from deep-frying flour batter in circular shapes, which are then soaked in sugar syrup. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Jalebi is one of the most popular sweets in Ujjain.
What to Try:
- Jalebi with Rabri: A decadent combination of crispy jalebi paired with rich, sweet rabri.
Cost per Piece: ₹20 – ₹50
Best For: Sweet lovers looking to indulge in a traditional Indian dessert.
Conclusion
Ujjain offers a delightful culinary experience, with a wide range of traditional dishes, street snacks, and sweets that reflect the rich culture of the city. From the tangy Pani Puri and savory Sabudana Khichdi to the sweet indulgence of Gajar Halwa and Jalebi, there is something for every food lover. Be sure to explore the local food stalls, and don’t miss these iconic dishes while you visit this spiritual city..