"Love From Gujrat"

Dabeli


The word "Dabeli" literally stands for "pressed" in the Gujarati language. Also known as “Kutchi Dabeli”, it is a veg potato mixture placed inside a bread bun sliced almost in half through the middle and served with green chutney and tamarind chutney.

Story behind

    It is said to be invented by one Keshavji Gabha Chudasama alias Kesha Malam, a resident of Mandvi in the Kutch region, and Mohan Bavaji Mandvi Kutch in 1960. When he started the business, he sold a dabeli at one anna or six paise. His shop is still there in Mandvi, and business is now carried by his next generations. Dabeli thus has its origin in Mandvi, and even today, the dabeli masala made there is said to be the most authentic form of it. The dabeli is also, therefore, known as "Kachchhi dabeli" or "Kutchi dabeli" taking its cue from the region of its origin. Bhuj and Nakhatrana towns of Kutch are also known for authentic dabeli apart from Mandvi.

Core Element

    Dabeli masala, which is the main ingredient of the dish, is readily available in most of the cities all over India, sold under various brand names mainly manufactured and packed in Kutch. The dabeli masala made from Mandvi and Bhuj is preferred by people for their taste and authenticity. This dabeli masala is a dry-paste made from dried red-chilies, black pepper powder, dried coconut, salt, clove, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, turmeric, elachi (cardamom), star anise (Javitri), black-salt, tej-patta (bay leaf), and other garam masalas, and is a specially prepared masala. The debeli masala once made or purchased from shops can be stored and used for over a period of six to twelve months.

Fun Facts 
  • Dabeli & vada pav were introduced more or less at the same time at two different places. It might be coincidental or it might be the idea that had been shared. I would suggest don't get into this, close your eyes and enjoy both.
  • There are few different types on dabeli in out there in the market like cheese dabeli but to be honest, you will not get that authentic feel to it but at the end of the day, it's your choice. Want to know bout "Vada Pav"? Check out my last blog.
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