Here’s a detailed guide on the Top 10 Foods to Try in Solapur, ensuring that tourists and city visitors will find all the information they need for an unforgettable culinary experience:
1. Solapur Special Puran Poli
- Description: A popular Maharashtrian dish made of a sweet filling of jaggery, chana dal (split Bengal gram), and cardamom, encased in a soft, thin dough. Served with ghee, it’s a must-try during festivals and family gatherings.
- Best Time to Eat: Anytime, especially during festive seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi.
- Where to Try: Local sweet shops like “Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale.”
2. Sabudana Khichdi
- Description: Made with sago pearls, peanuts, potatoes, and mild spices, this is a light yet filling dish often consumed during fasting days.
- Best Time to Eat: Breakfast or as a light meal.
- Where to Try: Street vendors and small eateries.
3. Misal Pav
- Description: A spicy curry made with sprouted moth beans, topped with farsan (crunchy fried chickpea flour snacks), and served with pav (bread rolls). This dish is perfect for those who love spicy and tangy food.
- Best Time to Eat: Breakfast or lunch.
- Where to Try: “Shree Ram Misal” and other local eateries.
4. Kachori
- Description: A deep-fried pastry filled with a spicy mixture of lentils, peas, or potatoes. Often served with tamarind chutney, it is a popular street food snack.
- Best Time to Eat: Snack time or evening tea.
- Where to Try: Street stalls and local markets.
5. Vada Pav
- Description: Known as the “Indian burger,” Vada Pav consists of a deep-fried potato patty (vada) served in a bun (pav) with chutneys. It’s a delicious and filling snack.
- Best Time to Eat: Anytime, especially in the evening.
- Where to Try: Local fast food joints like “Ashok Vada Pav.”
6. Bhakri
- Description: A thick, unleavened flatbread made from millet or rice flour, often served with spicy chutney or vegetable curries. It’s a hearty and filling food.
- Best Time to Eat: Lunch or dinner.
- Where to Try: Local restaurants and home-cooked meals.
7. Thalipeeth
- Description: A savory multi-grain pancake made from wheat, rice, and chickpea flour. It is served with yogurt or chutney for added flavor.
- Best Time to Eat: Breakfast or dinner.
- Where to Try: Available in most local eateries.
8. Chutney & Sweets
- Description: The region is famous for its unique sweet and tangy chutneys. They are made with tamarind, coconut, and various spices, often paired with snacks or main dishes.
- Best Time to Eat: As a side dish with any meal.
- Where to Try: Available in local sweet shops.
9. Kundali
- Description: A traditional sweet of Solapur, Kundali is a flaky pastry filled with coconut, jaggery, and dry fruits. It is often enjoyed with tea or after meals.
- Best Time to Eat: Evening snack or dessert.
- Where to Try: Sweet shops around the city, particularly during festivals.
10. Mango Mastani
- Description: A rich, thick mango milkshake, typically topped with ice cream, dry fruits, and jelly. It’s a refreshing treat in the hot weather, especially during the mango season.
- Best Time to Eat: Summer.
- Where to Try: “Apsara Ice Cream” and other local juice shops.
Tips for Enjoying Food in Solapur:
- Street Food Adventure: Explore local markets and streets to enjoy authentic, affordable street food. Vendors near Siddheshwar Temple, Bhausaheb Nagar, and Sankalp Sweets are known for their quality.
- Spice Levels: Solapur food tends to be on the spicy side, especially Misal Pav and Kandha Bhaji. Be ready for a bit of heat!
- Breakfast Choices: Local breakfast items like Sambar Idli, Misal Pav, and Sabudana Khichdi are typically served at local eateries early in the morning — perfect for an energizing start to the day.
- Sweets for Souvenirs: Don’t miss the chance to buy some Kaju Katli and Puran Poli as gifts or souvenirs from local sweet shops.