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Zunka Bhakri – Traditional Maharashtrian Village Food

Zunka Bhakri is a rustic and wholesome Maharashtrian dish made with gram flour (besan) cooked with onions, garlic, and spices, served alongside jowar or bajra bhakri (millet flatbread). This simple yet nutritious meal is a staple in rural Maharashtra and is now enjoyed across urban kitchens for its earthy flavors and health benefits.

🥗 Health Benefits

  • ✅ High in protein from besan (gram flour).
  • ✅ Rich in fiber and minerals from millet-based bhakri.
  • ✅ Gluten-free and diabetic-friendly meal option.

Zunka Bhakri – Traditional Maharashtrian Village Food

Zunka Bhakri is a rustic and wholesome Maharashtrian dish made with gram flour (besan) cooked with onions, garlic, and spices, served alongside jowar or bajra bhakri (millet flatbread). This simple yet nutritious meal is a staple in rural Maharashtra and is now enjoyed across urban kitchens for its earthy flavors and health benefits.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian, Maharashtrian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients (Serves 3–4 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins)
For Zunka:
  • 1 cup besan gram flour
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 6 –8 curry leaves
  • 2 green chilies chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic paste
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander
For Bhakri:
  • 2 cups jowar or bajra flour
  • Warm water to knead
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Prepare Zunka: Heat oil, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, chilies, garlic, and onions. Sauté until onions turn golden.
  2. Add turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Slowly sprinkle besan while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  3. Cook for 7–8 mins until the mixture is dry and crumbly. Garnish with coriander.
  4. Prepare Bhakri: Knead flour with warm water and salt into a soft dough. Roll flat and roast on hot tawa until cooked and slightly charred.

Notes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions
  • Serve hot Zunka with Bhakri and a side of raw onion and green chili.
  • Can also be paired with buttermilk for a complete meal.
 
❓ FAQs
Q: Can Zunka be made without onion-garlic?
A: Yes, you can skip them for a sattvic version.
Q: Which flour is best for Bhakri?
A: Jowar (sorghum) or Bajra (pearl millet) are most authentic.
Q: Why does my Bhakri crack?
A: Knead the dough with warm water and handle it gently while rolling.