In Gujarat, farsan means savoury snacks: the crisp, spiced bites served with tea, at weddings, and on every festival table. Gujarati food is famous for balancing sweet, sour and spicy, and farsan is where that balance shines.

Khaman dhokla

Dhokla is a soft, spongy steamed cake made from gram flour. It is finished with a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves and green chilli, then served with green chutney. It is light, a little tangy and very easy to love.

Methi gota

Methi gota ($8.99) are fluffy fritters made with fresh fenugreek (methi) leaves and gram flour. They are a winter and monsoon favourite in Gujarat, especially with a hot cup of chai.

Lilva kachori

Lilva kachori ($6.99) is a crisp pastry stuffed with spiced pigeon peas (lilva). It is a seasonal Gujarati classic with a fresh, slightly sweet filling.

Dabeli

Dabeli ($10.99 for 2) comes from Kutch in Gujarat. A toasted bun is filled with a sweet and spicy potato mix, masala peanuts and pomegranate seeds. Think of it as Gujarat’s answer to vada pav.

How to enjoy farsan

Farsan is best with masala chai or a glass of buttermilk (chaas) spiced with cumin and coriander. For a party, farsan trays are part of our Indian catering.

Read more on our Gujarati food page, or visit Namaste Cafe at 436 Broadway, Unit B1, Methuen, MA 01844. Open every day, 9 AM to 9 PM.