Gujarat and Dairy have an inseparable bond. The state has bejewelled India with the White Revolution, Amul, and the ‘chaas’ culture. However, one dairy product Gujaratis love that does not have its heritage in Gujarat is CHEESE.
As per a 2015 food survey, Gujaratis likely eat 50% of India’s cheese. Moreover, the delicacies around Ahmedabad validate that Gujaratis have immense affection for truckles of cheese. Gujaratis, people who love their authentic Gujju food, have welcomed cheese to their local cuisine with open arms.
The number of Pizzerias in Ahmedabad, which is more than 100, is anecdotal proof that the daily cheese consumption of city residents is more than usual. However, they wish to keep their cheese supply anonymous.
It is noteworthy that all Ahmedabad pizza places, especially the native LaPino’z and La Milano franchises, witness people in huge gatherings, even on weekdays. The seven-cheese pizza is a big hit amongst the Amdavad foodies.
Likewise, all sandwich shops in Ahmedabad have their versions of cheese sandwiches. In the metaverse of sandwiches, we find cheese chutney sandwiches, the famous cheese ghughra sandwich, and the classic vegetable cheese sandwich.
When Gujjus Say Cheese They Mean It!
However, if you visit the streets of Ahmedabad garlanded with food stalls, notice that all dishes have a cheesy version. The renowned dosa centre at the IIM Road also serves tons of cheese with their dosa and uttapam.
Apart from this, popular street-food chains like Jay Bhavani and Bole Toh Vada Pav have a unique style of making cheesy-mayo Vada Pavs. However, Frankie stalls opposite HL College Campus stays a favourite spot for cheese lovers.
Team VOI was able to tap in with Rashmi Tekchandani, an Ahmedabad-based food blogger. She said, “Sometimes, cheese unnecessarily kills the authenticity and flavour of the dish. But, in this bizarre world, some people like eating cheese with everything.”
“South Indian dishes like dosa or Maharashtrian dishes like Vada Pav represent a culture. Adding cheese to them butchers their originality. Cheese in some dishes like panipuri must be declared a crime,” she added.
However, Rashmi believes cheese is a cherry on the top for foods like Maggi, french fries, and puffs. She says, “It’s fine up to some extent with Parathas. Even Cheese khakhras are delicious. It might be a rich source of calcium, fat and protein. But, there is a limit to overusing it.”
Indeed, Cheese has made a mark in every Gujarati’s heart and the state has accepted it despite the geographical boundaries and non-Indian origin.
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A good source of protein for vegetarians.