How to Plan a Maharashtrian Food Menu for Weddings and Celebrations

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Maharashtra is a state rich in culture, and its people pride themselves on the delicacies they have bestowed upon us. Maharashtrian cuisine is packed with wildly flavoured delicacies and offers an endless variety of dishes that you can enjoy. This listicle curates dishes you must add to your wedding menu for guests to devour.

Table of Content: 

1. The Traditional Maharashtrian Wedding Menu

2. Maharashtrian Wedding Snacks and Food Counters

3. Iconic Maharashtrain Desserts

4. New Trends in Maharashtrian Catering

Be it your Marathi Sakharpuda or your wedding ceremony, these additions to your excellent Maharashtrian food menu will make it stand out. Read on to pick your favourites. 

The Traditional Maharashtrian Wedding Menu

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A Traditional Maharashtrian Wedding Menu is a delightful journey through bold flavours, aromatic spices, and heartfelt hospitality. From piping hot Puran Polis to tangy Sol Kadhi and rich Varan Bhaat, every dish tells a story of tradition and joy, leaving guests with a truly unforgettable feast. Add these delicious items to your Maharashtrian food menu and provide your guests with the ultimate culinary experience. 

Welcome Drinks

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Kick off your wedding feast with refreshing welcome drinks that set the tone for the flavourful journey ahead. Maharashtrian weddings are all about blending tradition with a warm, inviting vibe, and the right drinks can make your guests feel right at home from the first sip.

• Sol Kadhi: This drink is popular in Maharashtra and Goa. It is usually eaten with rice or drunk after meals. It is made with coconut milk and kokum (a plant used as a spice). This drink will be popular among your guests and give them a flavour of Maharashtra.
• Kairi Panha (Raw Mango Cooler): This tangy, sweet, and spiced raw mango drink is a summer favourite in Maharashtra. It’s the perfect way to refresh your guests and give them a taste of authentic Maharashtrian flavours with a zing of nostalgia.
• Masala Taak (Spiced Buttermilk): A cooling and savoury drink made with buttermilk, cumin, and coriander. Masala Taak is not only light and refreshing but also aids digestion, making it an ideal choice to prepare your guests for the delicious feast ahead.
• Kokum Sharbat: Made from kokum fruit, this tangy and slightly sweet drink with a hint of cumin is a traditional favourite. Its cooling properties make it a fantastic option for warm-weather weddings, adding flavour and tradition to your menu.

Starters

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No wedding menu is complete without a delectable spread of starters to whet your guests' appetites! Maharashtrian starters are known for their bold, earthy flavours and crispy textures that perfectly complement the main course. Here are the starters to include in your traditional Maharashtrian food menu:

• Aluvadi: Aluvadi is a deep-fried dish made from spinach or fresh taro leaves. It is a perfect snack to nibble on before guests dive into the main course. It has a sweet and tangy taste.
• Kothimbir Vadi: Kothimbir Vadi in Marathi translates to coriander and is one of the most famous dishes of Maharashtra. You can add this dish to your chaat counter and serve it with a dollop of green chutney. All the aunties at your wedding will go gaga over this dish, and the gossip will be endless.
• Batata Wada: These crispy, golden fritters stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes are a beloved snack across Maharashtra. Paired with tangy chutneys, they’re the perfect appetizer to kickstart the culinary journey at your wedding.
• Zunka Bhakri Bites: A modern twist on the traditional Zunka-Bhakri combination, these bite-sized portions pack all the flavours of spicy gram flour Zunka served on mini Bhakris. They’re unique and flavourful, and your guests will leave asking for more.

Main Course Dishes

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• Bharli Vangi (Stuffed Eggplant): This dish is a must-have on a Maharashtrian food menu. You can add it to your primary course selection, and we promise it will leave your guests licking their fingers. It is a well-liked delicacy all over Maharashtra, made with a stuffing of tomatoes, onions, Indian spices, and herbs filled in brinjals. Your list of Maharashtrian food will be incomplete without this dish.
• Pandhara Rassa: Pandhara Rassa, in Marathi, translates to white curry. It is a dish that non-veg lovers savour a lot. This dish isn't too spicy and is made with mutton and gravy, which is slowly cooked with the special ingredient of Kolhapuri masala, along with other Indian spices and herbs. If you plan to have non-veg dishes on your wedding menu, this dish is a great pick from the list of Maharashtrian food.
• Masala Bhaat: Masala Bhaat is the Maharashtrian version of Pulao and is widely eaten all over the state. Add this to the rice section of your wedding food menu, and you won't be disappointed. It is a dish cooked with veggies and spices. The main ingredient that does the magic is the Garam Masala, which gives it a smoky flavour.
• Tambda Rassa: Tambda Rassa is another non-veg dish you must include in your wedding food menu. This dish is mildly spicier than Pandhra Rassa. It is a variant of mutton gravy and can be eaten with rice and flatbread. We're sure a long queue will wait to taste this Maharashtrian delicacy.

Authentic Pickles and Chutneys

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No Maharashtrian meal is complete without zesty pickles and flavorful chutneys. These little additions pack a punch of taste and excite the dining experience. Perfect for weddings, they showcase the richness of traditional recipes and complement every dish beautifully.

• Thecha (Green Chili Chutney): Made with fresh green chillies, garlic, and peanuts, this fiery chutney adds a bold kick to any meal. It is a must-have for spice lovers who enjoy a burst of heat with their food.
• Lemon Pickle (Limbache Lonche): Tangy and slightly sweet, lemon pickle is a traditional favourite that pairs well with everything from puran poli to Varan Bhaat. It’s perfect for adding a refreshing zest to the plate.
• Dry Garlic Chutney (Lasun Chutney): This spicy, coarse chutney made with roasted garlic, coconut, and chilli is a staple in Maharashtrian meals. It’s perfect for enhancing the flavour of Bhakris or as a side for starters, adding a smoky, fiery kick to the menu.
• Coconut Chutney: Creamy, mildly spiced, and aromatic, this chutney is a versatile addition to the menu. Made with freshly grated coconut, green chillies, and a touch of tamarind, it pairs beautifully with starters like Zunka Bhakri bites or batata wada.

Maharashtrian Wedding Snacks and Food Counters

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What better way to keep your guests engaged than with mouthwatering snack counters? These Maharashtrian wedding snacks and food counters are perfect for adding a touch of regional charm while serving a delightful mix of traditional and modern bites. From crispy treats to hearty snacks, these counters create a festive vibe and ensure your guests always munch on something delicious.

• Pav Bhaji: Pav Bhaji is another delicacy from the state of Maharashtra. Any chaat or starter counter needs a Pav Bhaji station. A spicy curry of mixed vegetables cooked with blended Indian spices and herbs accompanied by a piece of bread shallow fried with butter is every Indian street food lover's dream come true. 
• Vada Pav: We saved the best for last. Vada Pav is a national food treasure. It is undoubtedly a staple snack for all Maharashtrians. It is an Indian burger version and is widely enjoyed by all.
• Kanda Bhaji Counter: This live counter serves golden, crispy onion fritters straight from the frying pan. These hot and crunchy bhajis, paired with tangy chutneys, are a classic snack that will have guests queuing for seconds, especially during evening functions.
• Misal Pav Bar: A customisable misal pav counter is a great way to showcase this spicy, tangy, and flavorful Maharashtrian delicacy. Guests can personalise their plates with toppings like Farsan, chopped onions, and fresh coriander for a hearty, crowd-pleasing experience.
• Sabudana Wada Station: Perfect for guests looking for lighter, Vrat-friendly options, these crispy tapioca fritters are a hit with their soft interiors and crunchy exteriors. Served with cooling yoghurt or spicy green chutney, they’re a versatile snack that fits any wedding time.
• Thalipeeth Counter: This traditional multi-grain flatbread, cooked fresh on a griddle, is wholesome and flavorful. Served with white butter, pickle, or chutney dollops, Thalipeeth adds a touch of rustic charm to the menu and brings authentic Maharashtrian flavours to the spotlight.

Iconic Maharashtrain Desserts

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No Maharashtrian wedding is complete without a sweet ending that leaves your guests smiling. Traditional Maharashtrian desserts are a delightful mix of flavours, textures, and memories that perfectly complement the lavish Maharashtrian wedding menu. From creamy indulgences to crispy treats, these iconic desserts will surely steal the spotlight and win hearts.

• Puran Poli: Puran Poli is a traditional Maharashtra dessert at festivals and weddings. It is a flatbread stuffed with a sweet paste made from lentils. It is loved by one and all and can be eaten with ice cream. And you can never have too many desserts, right?
• Modak: It is Lord Ganesha's favourite dish; now we know why. Modak is made with a filling of jaggery and coconut and finally baked. This will make a great dessert option, and you can make it sugar-free for the elders, so they have something sweet to savour.
• Amrakhand: Amrakhand is a must-have dessert. It is a dessert made with curd, sugar, almonds, pistachios, saffron and green cardamom. Another variant that you can choose from is the Mango Amrakhand. Mango Amrakhand is the perfect summer dessert you need to include in your list of Maharashtrian food right now.
• Shrikhand Wadi: Shreekhand, infused with flavours like saffron or cardamom and moulded into cute bite-sized wadi or blocks, is elegant and convenient for guests. This dessert elevates the traditional shrikhand into a modern, wedding-friendly treat.
• Anarse: These crispy, sweet rice flour doughnuts coated with sesame seeds are a festive favourite in Maharashtrian households. With its nutty flavour and crunchy texture, Anarse makes for an authentic and unique dessert addition with a hint of nostalgia.
• Basundi: A rich and creamy milk-based dessert, slow-cooked with sugar, cardamom, and nuts, Basundi is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. A live station serving warm or chilled Basundi allows guests to customise it with toppings like almonds, pistachios, or saffron, creating a luxurious dessert experience.

New Trends in Maharashtrian Catering

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Maharashtrian weddings are evolving, and so is the way food is served. While traditional flavours continue to be the heart and soul of the menu, couples are adding innovative twists to create an unforgettable dining experience. Think fusion dishes, live food stations, personalised plating, and eco-friendly setups; these trends transform how we enjoy Maharashtrian cuisine. It’s all about combining heritage with a modern flair to wow your guests. Here are some of the latest trends in Maharashtrian catering that are redefining wedding menus:

• Fusion Maharashtrian Cuisine: Dishes like Kolhapuri Tacos, Misal Pav Shots, or Tandoori Modak add a creative spin to traditional flavours. These fusion delights let you keep the authenticity alive while offering something exciting and fresh to your guests.
• Interactive Food Stations: Live counters for Dahi Handi-inspired desserts, Sol Kadhi shooters, or customised Zunka-Bhakri bites create an engaging experience for guests. Watching their favourite dishes prepared on the spot adds entertainment and freshness to the meal.
• Seasonal & Organic Ingredients: Couples can opt for menus highlighting seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients, like a summer menu featuring mango delights or a winter feast with rich sesame and jaggery dishes. This trend celebrates sustainability and authentic flavours.
• Artisanal Desserts & Mocktails: Adding handcrafted desserts like Saffron Puran Cheesecake or mocktails like Kokum Mojito ensures your menu feels contemporary and classy. These additions bring a gourmet touch to your wedding spread.
• Eco-Friendly Catering: From biodegradable plates made of banana leaves to eliminating food waste with thoughtfully curated portion sizes, eco-friendly catering has become a standout trend for couples looking to host a sustainable wedding.

Doesn't this list of Maharashtrian food make your mouth water and make you want to grab a snack? We know it does. What are you waiting for? Contact your caterer and add these mouthwatering dishes to your wedding menu.

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