Madhya Pradesh, the second largest state in India, is a treasure trove of culinary delights influenced by a rich tapestry of cultures and regions, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. The resulting culinary fusion presents various flavours and tastes that captivate your senses. If you have a penchant for delectable desserts and sweets, Madhya Pradesh offers an enticing assortment of dishes. Take, for instance, the iconic Poha Jalebi, a beloved breakfast dish comprising flattened rice cooked with aromatic spices and piping hot, crispy jalebis. Then there's the lip-smacking imarti, a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious swirl of golden-fried goodness that promises exquisite flavours with every bite. Here are five sweet dishes that are a must-try when in Madhya Pradesh.
Poha jalebi is a beloved combination and a popular breakfast choice in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Poha, a mildly spiced dish made with flattened rice flakes, onions, potatoes, and peanuts, is accompanied by the universally loved sweet, jalebi. This unusual pairing is a local favourite and offers a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and crunchy flavours. Enjoy the juicy jalebi alongside the poha to elevate your culinary experience.
Imarti, a famous sweet in Madhya Pradesh, is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. This delightful treat, resembling an orange-red jalebi, offers a sweeter taste and unique shape. Made from a batter of urad dal or black lentil, imartis are deep-fried into a spiral shape and then soaked in sugar syrup for a characteristic sweet taste and shiny glaze. Imarti is similar to jalebi but distinct, as it is made from black lentil flour. Both are deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup, but while jalebi is crisp and sticky, imarti is soft and chewy, offering a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
While in Madhya Pradesh in winter, you must indulge in the delightful taste of gajak. This beloved winter treat is made with a perfect blend of jaggery, sesame seeds, and cardamom powder, and offers a rich and satisfying flavour. It is not only delicious but also known for its warming properties, making it perfect for the winter season. Experience the irresistible aroma of freshly made gajak as you explore the neighbourhoods near Gwalior Fort.
Indulge in the irresistible deliciousness of khopra pak, a rich and gooey traditional sweet made with grated coconut, milk, and sugar. Slow-cooked to perfection, this decadent treat is infused with saffron milk and aromatic cardamom.
Mawa bati is a delectable local treat made with a mixture of dry fruits. It's prepared by stuffing chopped dry fruits, saffron, and cardamom powder into a rich, creamy mawa mixture. They are a popular sweet for festive occasions.