Maharashtrian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and traditions that beautifully blend the coastal bounty with the rustic heartlands of Maharashtra. While the vegetarian dishes of this region often steal the spotlight, the non-vegetarian recipes hold a special place for those who crave rich, aromatic spices combined with fresh seafood and meats.
From the fiery Kolhapuri chicken to the delicate Malvani fish curry, these dishes offer a sensual journey into Maharashtra’s culinary heritage.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the best Maharashtrian non-veg recipes that are perfect for impressing family and friends or simply indulging in authentic regional flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, these recipes bring together traditional techniques and bold spices that celebrate Maharashtra’s coastal and interior delights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Maharashtrian non-veg recipes are beloved for their intense flavor profiles and the perfect balance of spices, tanginess, and heat. They often combine fresh ingredients like coconut, kokum, and local spices to create dishes that are both hearty and refreshing.
These recipes are versatile and can be adapted for different meats or seafood, making them ideal for diverse palates. Plus, the use of traditional cooking methods ensures that each bite tells a story of Maharashtra’s rich food culture.
Whether you’re enjoying a spicy chicken curry or a fragrant fish fry, these recipes bring warmth and excitement to your dining table.
Ingredients
- Chicken Kolhapuri: 1 kg chicken pieces (with bone), 3 tbsp oil, 2 large onions (finely chopped), 3 tomatoes (pureed), 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 2 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp turmeric powder, 2 tsp Kolhapuri masala, 1 tbsp coriander powder, 1 tsp cumin seeds, 10-12 curry leaves, salt to taste, fresh coriander for garnish.
- Malvani Fish Curry: 500g firm white fish fillets (pomfret or kingfish), 2 tbsp Malvani masala, 1 cup fresh grated coconut, 4-5 dried red chilies, 1 tsp mustard seeds, 1 tsp fenugreek seeds, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 lemon (juiced), 2 tbsp oil, salt to taste, fresh coriander for garnish.
- Bombil Fry (Bombay Duck): 500g bombil fish cleaned and sliced, 1 cup rice flour, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp garam masala, salt to taste, oil for deep frying, lemon wedges.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed deep pan or kadai
- Blender or spice grinder for masalas
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife and chopping board
- Frying pan for shallow frying
- Serving bowls and plates
Instructions
Chicken Kolhapuri
- Heat oil in a deep pan and add cumin seeds and curry leaves until they crackle.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Mix in turmeric, red chili, coriander, and Kolhapuri masala powders. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add chicken pieces, salt, and mix well to coat with the masala.
- Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is tender.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with bhakri or steamed rice.
Malvani Fish Curry
- Soak dried red chilies in warm water for 10 minutes.
- Grind soaked red chilies with grated coconut, fenugreek seeds, and turmeric powder to make a smooth paste.
- Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds and wait till they splutter.
- Add the ground paste and sauté for 5-7 minutes until aromatic and oil separates.
- Add water (about 1.5 cups) to make a curry base and bring to a boil.
- Add fish pieces gently, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until fish cooks through.
- Finish with lemon juice and garnish with fresh coriander.
Bombil Fry (Bombay Duck)
- Clean and slice fish into manageable pieces.
- Mix rice flour, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt in a bowl.
- Coat each piece of fish evenly with the rice flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry fish pieces until golden and crisp on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with lemon wedges.
Tips & Variations
“For extra depth in your Chicken Kolhapuri, dry roast the Kolhapuri masala spices before grinding to enhance the aroma.”
Feel free to substitute the fish in Malvani curry with prawns or crab for a seafood variation. The key is to adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.
For Bombil fry, you can replace rice flour with semolina for a crunchier texture. Adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the spice mix can also elevate the flavor.
For a healthier twist, try grilling the chicken or fish after marinating with the masala instead of frying. This method reduces oil and adds a smoky flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Recipe | Calories (per serving) | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chicken Kolhapuri | 350 kcal | 30g | 20g | 8g |
Malvani Fish Curry | 280 kcal | 25g | 15g | 6g |
Bombil Fry | 400 kcal | 28g | 25g | 10g |
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Kolhapuri pairs exceptionally well with bhakri (a rustic millet flatbread) or steamed basmati rice. Adding a side of fresh cucumber and onion salad can help balance the heat.
Malvani Fish Curry is traditionally served with steamed red rice or sol kadhi (a refreshing kokum and coconut milk drink). This combo helps to soothe the palate after the spicy curry.
Bombil Fry is best enjoyed as a snack or appetizer alongside a tangy green chutney or simple lemon wedges. It’s also fantastic when served with hot chapatis or pav bread.
Conclusion
Maharashtrian non-veg recipes offer a delicious gateway to the rich culinary traditions of western India. Each dish showcases the use of fresh, local ingredients combined with unique spice blends that create unforgettable flavors.
Whether you are making the fiery Chicken Kolhapuri, the tangy Malvani Fish Curry, or the crispy Bombil Fry, these recipes bring warmth and authenticity to your dining experience.
Exploring these recipes can also inspire you to try other regional delights and cooking techniques. For more flavorful recipes, check out our Kidney Friendly Chicken Breast Recipes, or dive into creative baking with Magic Dough Recipe.
If you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting, the Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe is a must-try.
Enjoy cooking and savor every bite of these authentic Maharashtrian non-vegetarian delights!
📖 Recipe Card: Kolhapuri Chicken
Description: A spicy and flavorful Maharashtrian chicken curry with authentic Kolhapuri masalas. Perfect for those who love bold and rich non-vegetarian dishes.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT1H
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 3 tbsp oil
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 3-4 dried red chilies
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Dry roast dried red chilies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and black peppercorns until fragrant.
- Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder and set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add pureed tomatoes and cook until oil separates.
- Add turmeric, red chili powder, and the ground spice powder; mix well.
- Add chicken pieces and salt, cook on high heat for 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 8 g
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