Kolhapur & the famous Bhadang
A historic and ancient city of Maharashtra India, Kolhapur is situated on the banks of Panchganga River. Kolhapur is the largest city in southern Maharashtra and is famously known for its Kolhapuri Chappal craftmanship and the authentic Kolhapuri spices. Establishment of Kolhapur state was done by Tarabai in the year 1707, where one of the prominent kings of the state was Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj.
The second most famous thing after Kolhapuri Chappal is Kolhapur’s cuisine and flavours. The city is especially known for its mutton dishes, Kolhapuri Misal, Ethnic meat, & Kolhapuri Bhadang or Bhel. All these dishes have one of the few things in common, those are Kolhapuri Lavangi, Kholhapuri Jaggery, Kolhapuri Masala, & Kolhapuri Chutney. Other thing that Kolhapur is known for is its tasty soup-like curries called “Pandhara Rassa” and “Tambda Rassa”, which are served as a part of the thali.
From the streets of Kolhapur, Bhadang is the most loved and talked about snack. The spicy namkeen made with Murmura, Kurmura or Puffed Rice, contains peanuts, dried coconut or kopra chips, curry leaves and is spiced with Kolhapuri’s famous red chilli, garlic and a Maharashtrian spice powder called Metkut. Each bite of Bhadang takes you on a spicy crunchy savoury chewy & nutty trip. It is quite a rollercoaster when you put Bhadang in the mouth. In the streets, the Bhadang is sprayed with fresh lemon/lime juice to compliment the spices. A little sugar in Bhadang only serves to heighten the teekha taste and make it more addictive. Enjoyed best during teatime or with drinks, Bhadang bhel is a go to healthy spicy snack that fulfills all your cravings.