Rajasthani Food: 15 Dishes & Drinks you must try!

Rajasthani food explained: discover 15 iconic dishes and drinks you must try when visiting Rajasthan, India, as well as where to get them from.

Rajasthan is a land of royal forts, sweeping deserts, vibrant culture … and some of India’s most unforgettable food. The cuisine of Rajasthan reflects its arid climate, centuries-old traditions, and bold flavors, with hearty meals built to satisfy travellers and locals alike. Whether you’re exploring Jaipur’s bustling markets or savouring a thali in a heritage hotel in Udaipur, every bite tells a story.

Rajasthani Food Guide

An introduction to Rajasthan

When visiting Rajasthan, you can’t avoid the incredible Rajasthani Food whilst exploring the myriad of attractions and widely visited locations. It would be a mistake not to taste the region’s top dishes which is why we have a foodie’s guide to this North Indian state.

Rajasthan is not just famous for its vibrant cultural side but is also equally famous for its relishing cuisine that is both unique and spicy. Made from local and fresh ingredients, the cooking process of Rajasthan is as unique as its dishes. Most of their food items are made from milk, and the use of pure ghee adds to the fantastic flavors.

Rajasthan has a lot to offer visitors, with some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan being fun, interesting, and unique. But we love this destination for the food.

The vast and varied cuisine shows that Rajasthanis love their food. The frequent use of red chilies and oil and reduced water ensures that food is well preserved.

Rajasthani Food

1. Dal Baati Churma

No Rajasthani thali is complete without Dal Baati Churma, the most famous dish and one of the favourite foods in the country. The Bati is wheat bread that is stuffed with onion & peas and then dipped in ghee and served with Panchkuti dal and Churma.

It is indeed an appetizing combination and is very popular mainly for its long shelf life and a favourite Rajasthani food and Indian food.

2. Ker sangri

Ker is a wild berry that carries a tangy and peppery taste and grows in abundance in the desert areas of Jaisalmer and Barmer and survives even in drought areas. Rajasthani villagers make good use of these berries as they contain 53% protein.

It is made using dried ker berries and sangri beans, both of which grow naturally in the harsh Thar Desert region.These ingredients are sun-dried and stored, allowing them to be used year-round, making them a popular Rajasthani food.

The dish is cooked with mustard oil, dried red chilies, yogurt, and local spices, giving it a tangy, earthy, and slightly spicy flavour profile. Often served as part of a vegetarian thali, Ker Sangri is considered a delicacy and is rarely found outside Rajasthan, making it a must-try for visitors.

3. Laal Maas

Laal Maas is a huge favorite among Rajasthani food and dishes. The spicy red color is because of the fiery red chilies and is prepared in a sauce of curd. Traditionally, the meat of wild boar or deer is used to make Laal Maas, and the spicy dish is cooked on low flame and is a must-try for meat eaters.  It is served with bajra rotis and plain rice.

4. Ghevar

Ghevar is a special sweet dessert that is made from flour, soaked in ghee, and is then garnished with sliced almonds. The famous dessert of Rajasthan carries a crunchy texture and is available in three different variations, plain cream or condensed milk. No Rajasthani ceremony is complete with the presence of Ghevar.

5. Gujia

Another famous sweet that is immensely popular during Holi is Gujia, a delicious Rajasthani food. Enjoy the sweet that is filled with khoya and dry fruit and holds sugar syrup inside that oozes out. It is amazing to taste the sweet which is highly addictive.

6. Mawa Kachori

Mawa Kachori is a version of kachori, only sweet in nature. The kachori is packed with dry fruits and khoya and is deep fried before it is dipped in sugar syrup. Mawa Kachori is typically enjoyed after lunch or dinner.

7. Badam ka Halwa

Another must-have the hot and piping Badam ka Halwa. Prepared with dry fruits, suji, sugar, and ghee, the hot halwa is best enjoyed during winters and the comfort food takes you back to your childhood days.

8. Churma Ladoo

It is a must to have those Rajasthani Churma Ladoos and no Rajasthani feast is complete without them. These desi ghee ladoos are sweet and mouthwatering and often served after dal bati. However, be wary as it is hard to stop after tasting one and you are sure going to ask for more!

9. Gatte ki Sabzi

Gatte ki Sabzi is one of the most beloved vegetarian dishes in Rajasthan, made from gram flour dumplings simmered in a spiced yogurt gravy.

What makes this dish special is how it was created out of necessity in Rajasthan’s arid climate, where fresh vegetables were often scarce. Gram flour (besan) is shelf-stable, making it a practical ingredient for desert living.

The dumplings are seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and coriander before being boiled, sliced, and added to a tangy yogurt-based sauce. The result is a comforting, slightly spicy curry that pairs beautifully with roti or steamed rice and is commonly served in traditional Rajasthani thalis.

10. Safed Maas

Safed Maas is a royal Rajasthani meat dish that offers a striking contrast to the fiery Laal Maas.

Instead of red chilies, this dish relies on a creamy base made from yogurt, milk, cashew paste, and aromatic whole spices such as cardamom and cloves. Traditionally prepared with lamb or mutton, Safed Maas has a mild, rich flavour that reflects the tastes of Rajasthan’s royal kitchens.

It is often served during special occasions and pairs well with naan or fragrant rice.

11. Gatte ki Khichdi

Gatte ki Khichdi is a hearty, comforting dish that blends simplicity with bold flavours.

Unlike traditional khichdi, which is usually made with lentils, this Rajasthani version uses gram flour dumplings combined with rice and mild spices. The dish is lightly spiced, making it easy to digest and ideal for everyday meals.

It is especially popular during colder months and is often served with ghee, yogurt, or pickles for added richness. Gatte ki Khichdi showcases how Rajasthani cuisine transforms basic ingredients into deeply satisfying meals.

12. Kalmi Vada

Kalmi Vada is a crunchy, deep-fried snack made from coarsely ground lentils.

The lentil mixture is spiced with fennel seeds, chili, and asafoetida, shaped into small discs, and fried until golden brown. Unlike softer fritters, Kalmi Vada is known for its crisp texture and long shelf life.

It is commonly enjoyed as a tea-time snack or served alongside meals for added crunch. In many Rajasthani households, Kalmi Vada is prepared in batches and stored, making it a convenient and flavourful accompaniment.

13. Bajre ki Raab / Raabdi

Bajre ki Raab is a traditional warming drink made from pearl millet flour. It is typically prepared during winter months and is believed to have medicinal properties, helping with digestion and immunity.

The drink has a porridge-like consistency and is seasoned with spices such as cumin, ginger, and sometimes garlic.

Raab is often consumed early in the morning and is especially popular in rural Rajasthan, where it is valued for its nourishing and energising qualities. It reflects the strong connection between Rajasthani food and seasonal eating.

14. Dal Badam Chakki

Dal Badam Chakki is a rich, indulgent sweet that originates from Jodhpur. Unlike lighter Indian sweets, this dessert is intentionally heavy and filling.

Dal Badam Chakki is often prepared during festivals, weddings, and special occasions, and is prized for its long shelf life. Its nutty flavour and high energy content made it especially popular among travellers and traders in earlier times.

15. Masala Chai

Masala Chai is an everyday staple in Rajasthan, enjoyed across homes, markets, and roadside stalls; a must on any Indian holiday.

The tea is brewed with a blend of spices such as ginger, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, creating a warming and aromatic drink. It is commonly served alongside savoury snacks like kachoris and vadas.

In Rajasthan, chai is as much about social connection as it is about flavour, often shared during conversations and breaks throughout the day.

Best Places to eat in Rajasthan 

• Suvarna Mahal – Jaipur
  Located inside the Rambagh Palace, Suvarna Mahal is known for royal Rajasthani cuisine, including expertly prepared Laal Maas and traditional meat dishes served in an elegant heritage setting.

• Govindam Retreat – Jaipur
  A popular local restaurant specialising in authentic vegetarian Rajasthani food, including traditional thalis, Dal Baati Churma, and classic sweets.

• Dining Hall – Udaipur
  One of Udaipur’s most famous eateries, best known for its unlimited Rajasthani thali, offering a wide variety of local vegetarian dishes in a no-frills setting.

• Upre by 1559 AD – Udaipur
  A rooftop restaurant overlooking Lake Pichola, celebrated for traditional Rajasthani and North Indian dishes paired with stunning sunset views.

• Kesar Heritage Restaurant – Jodhpur
  Located in the old city with views of Mehrangarh Fort, this restaurant is known for classic Rajasthani dishes such as Ker Sangri, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Dal Baati.

• Janta Sweets – Jodhpur
  A legendary local spot famous for Mirchi Vada, Mawa Kachori, and traditional Rajasthani sweets, ideal for street food lovers.

• The Trio – Jaisalmer
  A well-known restaurant in the Golden City offering traditional Rajasthani meals in an atmospheric open-air setting, popular with travellers exploring the Thar Desert.

Things to Know Before you go to India

Food in Rajasthani FAQ