Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes, is not just famous for its stunning palaces and serene waters but also for its rich culinary heritage. When exploring this royal city, sampling authentic Rajasthani food in Udaipur is essential to truly experience its culture. The food here reflects the vibrant, rustic flavors of Rajasthan, combining unique spices, traditional cooking methods, and local ingredients.
If you’re on a gastronomic adventure looking for the famous food in Udaipur, here are the top five iconic Rajasthani dishes you must try — along with some of the best places to savor them.
1. Dal Baati Churma – Rajasthan’s Legendary Thali Staple
No discussion about Rajasthani cuisine is complete without Dal Baati Churma, arguably the crown jewel of Rajasthan’s food heritage. This wholesome dish consists of:
- Dal: A spicy lentil curry made from a mix of lentils like toor, moong, and chana, slow-cooked with aromatic spices.
- Baati: Hard, baked wheat balls that are crunchy on the outside and soft inside, traditionally baked over fire or in a charcoal pit.
- Churma: A sweet side made from crushed baati mixed with ghee and jaggery or sugar.
Together, this trio offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors—savory, crunchy, and sweet.
Where to Try:
- Natraj Dining Hall: Known for its authentic flavors and generous portions. Located on City Station Road, this spot is a local favorite.
- Krishna Dal Bati Restro: Near Chetak Circle, this restaurant is renowned for its perfect baati and rich dal, served in a homely setting.
2. Gatte Ki Sabzi – Gram Flour Dumplings in a Tangy Yogurt Gravy
Another classic of Rajasthani food in Udaipur, Gatte Ki Sabzi features soft, cylindrical dumplings made from besan (gram flour). These dumplings are steamed and then simmered in a tangy, spicy yogurt-based curry flavored with mustard seeds, asafoetida, and red chili powder.
The creamy, slightly tart gravy complements the dense gatte, making it a delightful vegetarian option that pairs well with steamed rice or roti.
Where to Try:
- Santosh Bhojanalaya: Located near Surajpole, this no-frills eatery is perfect for enjoying authentic Rajasthani vegetarian fare.
- Traditional Khana: Close to the City Palace, this small restaurant offers home-style cooking with rich flavors and generous servings.
3. Ker Sangri – A Desert Delicacy Unique to Rajasthan
Ker Sangri is one of the most distinctive dishes representing the arid landscape of Rajasthan. Made from two wild desert plants — ker (a sour berry) and sangri (a type of bean) — this dry vegetable preparation is cooked with mustard oil, red chili powder, and dried spices.
This dish offers a tangy, slightly salty flavor that’s unlike anything else and is often served alongside bajre ki roti or dal baati.
Where to Try:
- Chokhi Dhani: This ethnic village-themed resort on Pratap Nagar serves excellent Ker Sangri in a traditional setting, giving you a taste of Rajasthan’s countryside cuisine.
- Ambrai Restaurant: Set by Lake Pichola, Ambrai offers both ambiance and authentic flavors, including their excellent rendition of Ker Sangri.
4. Bajre Ki Roti with Lehsun Chutney – Rustic and Flavorful
Bajra (pearl millet) is a staple grain in Rajasthan, and Bajre Ki Roti is a thick, rustic flatbread made from its flour. Traditionally cooked on a tava (flat pan), these rotis have a slightly nutty flavor and chewy texture.
They are best enjoyed with lehsun chutney (a spicy garlic chutney) and dollops of fresh ghee. This simple yet satisfying combination embodies the hearty, earthy flavors of Rajasthani rural food.
Where to Try:
- Krishna Dal Bati Restro: Famous not only for dal bati but also for their perfect bajre ki roti served with authentic chutneys.
- Gordhan Thal: Located in Ashok Nagar, Gordhan Thal is a fine dining restaurant serving traditional thali meals that feature bajre ki roti.
5. Papad Ki Sabzi – A Unique Rajasthani Curry
Papad Ki Sabzi is a lesser-known but delicious dish unique to Rajasthan. This curry uses thin, crispy papads (lentil wafers) cooked in a yogurt-based gravy with spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and asafoetida.
The papads soften in the curry, creating a distinctive texture contrast between the creamy sauce and the slightly chewy papads. It’s often enjoyed with plain rice or rotis.
Where to Try:
- Natraj Dining Hall: Along with their famous dal bati churma, this dish is a highlight on their traditional menu.
- Santosh Bhojanalaya: Their homestyle cooking makes papad ki sabzi a comforting choice.
Final Thoughts: Discover the True Taste of Rajasthan in Udaipur
The Rajasthani food in Udaipur reflects centuries of royal culinary tradition blended with rustic, desert flavors. These five dishes offer a glimpse into the city’s rich food culture—each with its own unique story and taste.
Next time you’re in Udaipur, don’t miss out on these famous foods in Udaipur. They aren’t just meals but a journey through the heritage and soul of Rajasthan.
