Ujjain is not only a spiritual city but also a place where simple, traditional, and soulful food is deeply connected with daily life, temples, and local culture. If you are visiting Ujjain for the first time, this guide will help you understand what to eat, why it is special, when to eat it, and local tips—so you don’t need to search anywhere else.
1. Poha Jalebi
- This is the most famous and loved breakfast in Ujjain. Soft, lightly spiced poha made from flattened rice is served with hot, crispy jalebi. The sweet and salty combination is unique and filling.
- Best time to eat: Early morning (6 AM – 10 AM)
- Why try: Authentic Malwa-style poha has mild spices, peanuts, and sev, making it light yet satisfying.
- Local tip: Always eat it fresh and hot; it tastes best before 9 AM.
2. Dal Bafla
- Dal Bafla is a traditional Malwa dish similar to dal baati but softer and richer. Wheat baflas are boiled, baked, and soaked in ghee, served with dal and chutney.
- Best time to eat: Lunch
- Why try: It represents the heart of Malwa cuisine and is very filling.
- Local tip: Eat in small quantity if you are not used to heavy ghee-based food.
3. Sabudana Khichdi
- This dish is very popular during fasting days and temple visits. Made with soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and mild spices, it is light and energizing.
- Best time to eat: Morning or afternoon
- Why try: Easy on the stomach and widely available near temples.
- Local tip: Ask for freshly made khichdi to avoid stickiness.
4. Bhutte Ka Kees
- A specialty of Madhya Pradesh, this dish is made from grated corn cooked slowly with milk and mild spices.
- Best time to eat: Evening snack
- Why try: Soft texture, mild sweetness, and unique taste not found easily outside Malwa.
- Local tip: Best eaten warm; avoid reheated versions.
5. Malpua
- Malpua is a traditional sweet made by deep-frying a flour-based batter and soaking it in sugar syrup.
- Best time to eat: Evening or dessert after meals
- Why try: Especially popular during festivals and religious occasions.
- Local tip: Pair it with rabri for a richer taste.
6. Kachori (Dal Kachori & Pyaaz Kachori)
- Crispy kachoris stuffed with spiced lentils or onions are commonly eaten with chutney.
- Best time to eat: Morning or evening
- Why try: Crunchy outside, spicy inside, and very filling.
- Local tip: Eat fresh; packed kachoris lose crispiness quickly.
7. Samosa
- Ujjain-style samosas are medium-sized, crispy, and mildly spiced, often served with green and tamarind chutney.
- Best time to eat: Evening snack
- Why try: Perfect with tea and easily available across the city.
- Local tip: Ask for freshly fried samosas for the best taste.
8. Jalebi
- Though often eaten with poha, jalebi alone is a favorite sweet snack in Ujjain.
- Best time to eat: Morning or evening
- Why try: Fresh jalebis are crispy, juicy, and deeply satisfying.
- Local tip: Always check if they are freshly made; fresh jalebi has a bright color and crisp sound.
9. Lassi
- Thick, creamy lassi made from curd is very popular in Ujjain, especially during hot weather.
- Best time to drink: Afternoon
- Why try: Helps cool the body and aids digestion after spicy food.
- Local tip: Choose plain or lightly sweetened lassi for better digestion.
10. Rabri
- Rabri is thick, slow-cooked milk dessert with layers of cream and sugar.
- Best time to eat: Dessert after dinner
- Why try: Rich texture and traditional taste, often paired with malpua or jalebi.
- Local tip: Best enjoyed chilled during summers.
Important Food Tips for Tourists in Ujjain
- Eat fresh and hot food, especially street food
- Morning breakfasts are the best food experience in the city
- Food is generally mild but ghee-rich, so eat moderately
- During temple visits, simple vegetarian food is easily available
- Drinking lassi or buttermilk helps balance heavy meals
