In the heart of the Sahayadri Mountain ranges, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Western Ghats in India, my family and I embarked on a journey promising relaxation, adventure, and cherished moments together. As we trekked up ancient forts, marveled at the intricate carvings of age-old temples, and breathed in the fresh, green air around us, one aspect of our trip caught us by surprise – the noticeably low-key presence of traditional local cuisine.
In a landscape adorned with natural wonders, it was unexpected to find a scarcity of eateries offering the authentic flavors of Maharashtra's Sahayadri region. We could easily find dishes from around the globe like Mediterranean, Italian, and Indo-Chinese, but the local flavour was missing.
Our quest for local flavors prompted us to reflect on the importance of preserving and promoting traditional foods, not just for their taste but for their deeper significance. Traditional dishes are more than just sustenance; they are a reflection of a community's history, culture, and agricultural traditions. Passed down through generations, each recipe carries with it stories of resilience and ingenuity.
Moreover, beyond their cultural value, local foods offer unparalleled nutritional benefits. Fresh, minimally processed ingredients packed with essential nutrients are staples of traditional diets. Research indicates that consuming locally grown and traditional foods can significantly impact gut health and strengthen the microbiome, leading to improved overall well-being and immunity. Our contribution was the few kilos of 'Raan Fal'(Wild or forest fruit) we devoured that was locally grown and picked from the dense forests or the beautiful fields. Strawberries, which Mahabaleshwar is famous for, with Indian gooseberries, tomatillos, wild black raspberries, mulberries, and chini-mini ber (a very Indian berry fruit), were ours to enjoy.
Supporting local food systems has profound economic implications. By investing in local farmers, artisans, and food producers, we contribute to the sustainability of rural economies and help preserve traditional agricultural practices. This, in turn, fosters a sense of community and cultural continuity.
As travelers, we have a responsibility to engage with and support the communities we visit. This includes embracing their culinary traditions and seeking out authentic food experiences. While it may be tempting to stick to familiar dishes, there is immense value in stepping out of our comfort zones and immersing ourselves in the flavors of a place.
During our time in the Sahayadri Mountains, we made a conscious effort to seek out establishments offering traditional local flavoured Maharashtrian fare. We reveled in hearty meals of bhakri accompanied by spicy thecha, relished the tangy flavors of vangya cha rassa, and indulged in the rich aroma of gaavraan chicken cooked to perfection with local spices. Each bite was a celebration of the region's rich culinary heritage.
So, the next time you set out on an adventure, dare to explore the flavors of the land – you might just uncover a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be savored. Oh, and if you're ever in doubt as to what to eat, make it a point to ask an authorized guide for help, they are wonderful!
A word of reflection to those who take on the huge task of feeding travelers - we are grateful, more than you know, but feed us the food you know, the food you grew up with, maybe it will remind us of better times in our lives.