Food In Sasan Gir

Food History of Sasan Gir, Gujarat, India

Sasan Gir, home to the majestic Asiatic lions, is located in the western state of Gujarat, which has a predominantly vegetarian cuisine due to the majority of the population following Jainism and Hinduism. The historical palate of this region has been shaped by the seasonal produce of the land, the traditional agricultural practices, and the cultural influences that have intermingled over centuries, including influences from the Mughal era, Persian traditions, and the British colonial period.

The region's cuisine is characterized by its use of a plethora of spices and a preference for sweetness, even in savory dishes. The Gir Forest and surrounding areas have witnessed the evolution of various vegetarian delicacies that are synonymous with Gujarati cuisine today. Although the region does have non-vegetarian offerings, particularly seafood and chicken due to its proximity to the coastline, these dishes would generally not include the usage of cow meat out of respect for Hindu practices.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Sasan Gir, Gujarat for Tourists

1. Khaman Dhokla (Vegetarian) – A steamed and spongy cake made from fermented chickpea batter, served with green chutney.
2. Gujarati Kadhi (Vegetarian) – A sweet and spicy yogurt-based soup that is thickened with gram flour and laced with spices.
3. Thepla (Vegetarian) – A soft flatbread made from wheat flour, gram flour, and spices served with chutney or yogurt.
4. Handvo (Vegetarian) – A vegetable cake made with a mixture of lentils and rice, and spiced with sesame, mustard, and curry leaves.
5. Gujarati Samosa (Vegetarian) – Triangular pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas, a popular snack throughout India.
6. Undhiyu (Vegetarian) – A mixed vegetable casserole cooked in an earthen pot, packed with the flavors of green beans, eggplant, and bananas among others.
7. Khandvi (Vegetarian) – Rolls made from gram flour and yoghurt, topped with tempered mustard seeds and coconut.
8. Sev Tamatar nu Shak (Vegetarian) – A tomato-based curry topped with crispy chickpea flour noodles called 'sev'.
9. Basaar Paneer (Vegetarian) – Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a spicy gravy thickened with peanuts and sesame seeds, unique to this region.
10. Chana Dal Dhokli (Vegetarian) – A tangy stew made with split chickpeas and wheat flour dumplings, flavored with spices.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sasan Gir, Gujarat with Address and Famous Food

• Gir Birding Lodge
  Address: Village Bhalchhel, Sasan Gir, Gujarat
  Famous for: Vegetarian Thali
  Food Type: Vegetarian
• Lion's Paw (by Fern Gir Forest Resort)
  Address: Sasan Junagadh Road, Sasan Gir, Gujarat
  Famous for: Gujarati Kadhi and Thepla
  Food Type: Vegetarian
• Flavours of Forest (by Gir Jungle Lodge)
  Address: Sasan-Talala Road, Sasan Gir, Gujarat
  Famous for: Handvo and Khaman Dhokla
  Food Type: Vegetarian
• River View Restaurant
  Address: Sasan Gir, Gujarat
  Famous for: Sev Tamatar nu Shak and Khandvi
  Food Type: Vegetarian
• Food Fun Restaurant
  Address: Sasan Gir, Gujarat
  Famous for: Chana Dal Dhokli
  Food Type: Vegetarian

When visiting Sasan Gir, these dishes offer a quintessential taste of Gujarati cuisine, reflecting a blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Visitors can relish these vegetarian delicacies which are not just an integral part of the local culture but also a testament to the region's love for its unique and traditional food.