Traveling by train in India is an experience that combines the joys of exploring diverse landscapes with the pleasure of tasting regional cuisines. When it comes to regional culinary delights, the Gujarati cuisine stands out with its unique flavors and wholesome ingredients. Fortunately, you can now enjoy authentic Gujarati meals on your train journey. In this article, we will guide you through the delightful world of healthy and tasty Gujarati food, online food order in train, ensuring a memorable and nourishing travel experience.
The Essence of Gujarati Cuisine
Gujarati cuisine is celebrated for its balance of flavors, use of seasonal ingredients, and a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy tastes. Some of the key characteristics of Gujarati cuisine include:
Vegetarian Emphasis: Gujarati food is predominantly vegetarian, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians and those who prefer plant-based options.
Diversity of Dishes: The cuisine offers a wide array of dishes, from snacks like dhokla and khandvi to main courses like dal dhokli and undhiyu, as well as sweet treats like shrikhand and jalebi.
Sweet and Savory: Gujarati meals often incorporate both sweet and savory components in the same platter, creating a unique culinary experience.
Use of Spices: While Gujarati cuisine is generally milder than some other Indian cuisines, it features a range of spices such as mustard seeds, cumin, fenugreek, and asafoetida to enhance flavors.
Popular Gujarati Dishes to Relish on Your Train Journey
Dhokla: Start your culinary journey with dhokla, a spongy and light steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour. It is garnished with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies, and served with a tangy tamarind or mint chutney.
Thepla: Thepla is a popular Gujarati flatbread made from whole wheat flour, spices, and fenugreek leaves. It is a perfect travel companion and is often served with pickles and yogurt.
Undhiyu: Undhiyu is a flavorful mixed vegetable dish cooked with a medley of seasonal vegetables, spices, and a coconut-based masala. It's often served with puris (deep-fried bread) or steamed rice.
Khandvi: Khandvi is a savory snack made from gram flour and yogurt. It has a unique, melt-in-the-mouth texture and is seasoned with mustard seeds and grated coconut.
Dal Dhokli: A comforting one-pot meal, dal dhokli consists of wheat flour dumplings simmered in a spicy and tangy lentil soup. It's a wholesome dish that combines the goodness of dal and carbs.
Shrikhand: For dessert, savor the sweet and creamy shrikhand, a delightful yogurt-based dessert flavored with saffron and cardamom. It's a refreshing way to end your meal.
Fafda and Jalebi: This classic combination includes crispy, deep-fried fafda served with sweet and syrupy jalebi. The contrast of flavors and textures is a treat for your taste buds.
How to Order Gujarati Food on Trains?
Enjoying Gujarati cuisine on Indian trains is hassle-free, thanks to various options available for ordering meals:
E-catering Services: The Indian Railways provides e-catering services through mobile apps and online platforms. Passengers can browse menus, check pnr status, place orders, and make payments digitally.
Pre-Booked Meals: You can pre-book your Gujarati meal when booking your train ticket or at a later time through the IRCTC website or app. This ensures your meal is ready for you at your chosen station during the journey.
On-Board Pantry Services: Many long-distance trains offer on-board pantry services that provide a limited but flavorful selection of Gujarati dishes.
Local Vendors at Stations: Major railway stations often have local vendors and food stalls offering authentic Gujarati cuisine. You can purchase these items to enjoy on the train.
Health Benefits of Gujarati Cuisine
Gujarati cuisine not only delights your palate but also offers several health benefits:
Vegetarian Delight: Being predominantly vegetarian, Gujarati food is rich in plant-based nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being.
Balanced Nutrition: Gujarati thalis (platters) are designed to include a variety of dishes, ensuring a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins.
Light on Spices: While Gujarati cuisine includes spices, it tends to be milder in heat compared to some other Indian cuisines, making it more accessible to those with sensitive palates.
Seasonal Ingredients: The use of seasonal ingredients ensures that the cuisine is both fresh and environmentally sustainable.
Conclusion
As you embark on your train journey in India, take the opportunity to relish the delightful flavours of Gujarati cuisine. From the soft and spongy dhokla to the flavorful undhiyu and the sweet indulgence of shrikhand, Gujarati food offers a diverse and satisfying dining experience. With the convenience of e-catering services and pre-booked meals, you can enjoy these mouthwatering dishes right in the comfort of your train compartment. Gujarati cuisine is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome choice for your health. So, sit back, relax, and savor the unique and nourishing flavors of Gujarat as the train takes you on a journey through India's scenic landscapes.
