Trying Varhadi Thali While on an Excursion to Tadoba
Tadoba National Park is a priceless jewel of the Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra. Located in the Chandrapur district, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is simultaneously a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and the abode of the Bengal tigers. The exciting tiger safaris in Tadoba across the several zones in the national park have earned worldwide popularity. During the peak seasons in Tadoba, the jeep safaris are mostly out of availability due to rigorous advance bookings. Tiger sighting is quite assured both in the core and buffer safari zones. Even during the monsoon season, the buffer zone of Tadoba National Park remains operational for safaris. However, wildlife sightings are a bit challenging as the forest turns denser.
Apart from the majestic tigers, the central attraction of Tadoba, and the other exotic wildlife species, there are several other fascinating attractions in and around this ancient national park. There are so many Things to do in Tadoba, right from wildlife safaris, to boating at Erai Lake, and birdwatching to visiting the various temples and forts near Tadoba, and many more. A trip to Tadoba National Park for 3-4 days is full of rejuvenation. The national park is also surrounded by numerous resorts, hotels and homestays that stand as the very epitome of comfort and luxury. When talking about enjoyment, safari, rejuvenation and so on, you cannot miss out on the exquisite Vidarbha cuisines, especially if you are a foodie, and spice lover in specific. Read below to learn about the unique flavours of this cuisine.
Varadhi Thali of Vidarbha Region
Maharashtrian meals are thoughtfully planned and cooked with the guiding principle that the cooking medium should not be visible. Vegetables are typically steamed and lightly seasoned to preserve their nutritional value, with minimal deep frying or roasting. Coconut is a common ingredient, both in cooking and as a garnish. Vegetables and lentils often feature the addition of jaggery and tamarind, creating a sweet and sour taste, while the unique blend of spices known as 'Kala Masala' contributes a flavorful kick. In contrast to the coastal cuisine where fresh coconut is prevalent, the Vidarbha region (Amravati and Nagpur) uses powdered coconut. Vidarbha cuisine is divided into two types: Varadhi and Saoji, with the primary distinction being the level of spiciness.
Varhadi cuisine is characterized by its unique dishes such as Patodi Rassa Bhaji (gram flour cooked in a spicy curry), Zunka (gram or chickpea flour cooked with onions, mustard, ginger, and garlic), Pithala, Bhakari, and Bharli Vaangi (stuffed eggplants). Other notable dishes include Puran Poli with generous amounts of ghee, Gola Bhaat, and Vada Bhaat. Chickpea flour (besan) is a staple ingredient in Varhadi cuisine, complemented by spices like black pepper, mustard, red chilli powder, and dried mango powder. Non-vegetarian dishes, particularly chicken and mutton, are also popular in this region due to the scarcity of seafood. Meals are typically served in the form of thalis, offering a diverse and flavorful experience.
You can relish the delicacy of the Varadhi Thali in some of the celebrated resorts in Tadoba National, where the highly dextered chefs of the in-house restaurant prepare all the items with utmost care brimmed with mouth-watering flavours.