Kadhi

Kadhi, also known as karhi, is a beloved dish from the Indian subcontinent, celebrated for its rich and flavorful gravy. Made primarily from gram flour (besan) and yogurt, kadhi often includes vegetable fritters known as pakoras. This tangy and hearty dish is typically paired with boiled rice or roti, making it a staple comfort food.

Northern India

In Northern India, kadhi is a staple featuring pakoras in a gram flour gravy enriched with sour yogurt to enhance the flavor. Each region adds its unique twist.

Gujarat and Rajasthan

In Gujarat and Rajasthan, the dish takes on a slightly sweeter profile with the addition of sugar or jaggery. It’s typically enjoyed with khichdi, roti, paratha, or rice.

Punjab

Punjabi kadhi is renowned for its quick preparation and thicker consistency, thanks to the generous use of besan. It pairs perfectly with both rice and roti.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra offers some unique variations. Solkadhi is made with kokum; Aambyachi kadhi uses raw mango; and Takachi kadhi combines curd and buttermilk for a refreshing taste.

Haryana

In Haryana, Haryanvi hara choley kadhi is a popular variant, featuring besan and raw green chickpeas for a delightful twist.

Purvanchal

In the Purvanchal region (eastern Uttar Pradesh and western Bihar), Kadhi-Badi is a distinct version where small chickpea flour dumplings (badi or vadi) are added to the kadhi.

Southern India

Southern states season their kadhi with an array of spices and thicken it using pureed split chickpeas and vegetables like squash, okra, and tomatoes.

Sindhi Kadhi

The Sindhi diaspora in India has a unique take on kadhi, incorporating curry leaves and tamarind pulp for a distinctive sour flavor.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, kadhi is a versatile dish often served with boiled rice and naan. Regional variations abound, including chicken kadhi, pumpkin kadhi, and mustard leaves kadhi. In Karachi and Hyderabad, Sindh, vegetables like okra, aubergine, and drumstick beans are added to the mix. Pakoras are a staple in this version, typically enjoyed with chapatis or plain boiled rice.

No matter where you find it, kadhi is a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a burst of flavor, making it a cherished part of many culinary traditions.