When you think of Rajasthan, the first images that come to mind are probably forts, palaces and endless sand dunes. But if you ask a foodie, they’ll tell you, the real richness of Rajasthan lies on its thali.
Rajasthani cuisine is bold, earthy and packed with flavour. Influenced by the state’s arid climate and warrior history, the food here is made to last, travel well, and satisfy completely. From fiery curries to ghee-laden sweets, Rajasthani food is a whole new experience. Well, it is one that’s meant to be shared, savoured and remembered.
Let’s take a tour of some of the top Rajasthani dishes you can try.
Dal Baati Churma
No list can begin without the pride of Rajasthan—Dal Baati Churma. This iconic trio is both rustic and royal. The baati is a hard, baked wheat ball, dipped in desi ghee and served with a spicy panchmel dal. The meal is finished with churma—sweetened, crumbled baati mixed with ghee and jaggery. It’s heavy, hearty, and pure comfort food.
Gatte Ki Sabzi
Gatte ki Sabzi is a perfect example of how Rajasthani food can create magic without fresh vegetables. It has gram flour dumplings cooked in a spicy gravy made with curd. The dish is rich and tangy and it goes well with roti or steamed rice. Most Rajasthani homes have it as a staple.
Ker Sangri
This one’s truly unique to the desert regions. Ker and sangri are wild berries and beans that grow in the Thar desert. Cooked with spices, oil and sometimes dried mango, Ker Sangri is tangy, spicy and delicious with bajre ki roti or plain paratha.
Laal Maas
If you love non-veg, Laal Maas is a must-try. This fiery red mutton curry gets its deep colour and spice from Mathania red chillies. Traditionally slow-cooked, the meat becomes tender and juicy, soaking up the intense flavours. Best served with bajra roti or steamed rice—and a glass of chaach to cool down!
Papad Ki Sabzi
Yes, you read that right! In Rajasthan, even papad can turn into a sabzi. In this dish, roasted or fried papads are added to a curd-based gravy spiced with red chilli and jeera. It’s a quick fix for days when fresh veggies aren’t available—and honestly, it’s surprisingly tasty.
Bajre Ki Roti with Lashun Ki Chutney
Bajra (pearl millet) is a staple in Rajasthan, and its rustic roti is often served with a fiery lashun (garlic) chutney that’s not for the faint-hearted. Add some raw onion and a bit of jaggery on the side and you’ve got a simple but soulful meal.
Rajasthani Kadhi
Unlike its Punjabi cousin, Rajasthani kadhi is spicier, thinner, and made without pakoras. It’s sour, bold, and best enjoyed with steamed rice, khichdi, or even bajra roti. Comforting and flavourful—this is the kind of food that makes you feel at home.
Mawa Kachori
Time for something sweet? Mawa Kachori from Jodhpur is a deep-fried pastry stuffed with sweetened khoya and dry fruits, dipped in sugar syrup. Rich and indulgent, it’s often gifted during festivals but is best eaten hot, fresh, and with sticky fingers.
Ghewar
This dessert, which looks like a honeycomb, is a popular Rajasthani treat during Teej and Rakhi. Ghewar is crunchy, syrupy, and hard to resist. It’s made from flour, soaked in syrup, and often topped with rabri or mawa. You’ll see why it’s so special after just one bite.
Want to Try It All? Order Rajasthani Food Online
Craving Dal Baati or Laal Maas but not in the mood to cook? You don’t need a trip to Jaipur or Jodhpur to enjoy authentic Rajasthani flavours. With Zomato, you can find traditional Rajasthani meals from local restaurants and cloud kitchens—delivered straight to your doorstep.