Winter delicacy “Umbadiya” takes Ankleshwar-Bharuch by storm

The tantalizing aroma of Umbadiya, a traditional winter delicacy from South Gujarat, has captivated the taste buds of Ankleshwar and Bharuch residents.

Every day, more than 100 kilograms of this unique dish, prepared by the Solanki family from Valsad, is sold along the Ankleshwar-Bharuch road, drawing food lovers from across the region.

For the past five years, the Solanki family has made their way to this busy highway during the winter season, setting up a temporary eatery that has now become a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

What began with selling 8-10 portions daily has grown into a culinary phenomenon, with customers traveling from cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Anand to savor this healthy yet flavorful dish.

A Unique Culinary Tradition

Umbadiya, also known as Ubadiyu, is a traditional dish from Navsari that combines seasonal vegetables like papdi, potatoes, brinjals, sweet potatoes, and yams. These are seasoned with garlic and green chili chutney and then steamed to perfection. What makes the preparation of Umbadiya particularly unique is its cooking method—vegetables are placed under an inverted clay pot and steamed using a fire lit around the pot. This oil-free and spice-light preparation locks in the natural flavors of the vegetables while offering a healthy treat.

A Winter Favorite

This seasonal dish is available only during winter, making it a much-anticipated treat. Bhavnaben Solanki, who runs the makeshift eatery, notes that the dish’s natural, steam-cooked flavors have become immensely popular. “There are no heavy spices or oil, just the freshness of vegetables and the subtle heat of garlic and chili. It’s both tasty and beneficial for health,” she shared.

A Growing Fanbase

The simplicity and health benefits of Umbadiya have made it a sought-after dish. The Solanki family’s shop sees a steady stream of customers daily, with many buying in bulk to share with friends and family. “This dish brings people together. It’s a taste of tradition that reminds us of our roots,” said one customer.

With the winter season in full swing, Umbadiya has become a culinary highlight of Ankleshwar and Bharuch, offering a taste of Gujarat’s rich food heritage to all who pass through.