How Bakarwadi Became Pune’s Iconic Snack

In a city where every street corner tempts you with flavorsome delights, Pune has earned a place in India’s culinary landscape for its mouthwatering snacks. Among the vast array of offerings, one name stands out- Bakarwadi.
A perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy, this bite-sized snack has not only captured the hearts of Punekars but has also garnered a loyal fan base across the globe. But how did Bakarwadi, a humble snack, become synonymous with Pune’s rich food culture?
Let’s take a journey through its history, preparation, and the love it evokes among people.
The Origins of Bakarwadi
Bakarwadi finds its roots in the culinary traditions of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Originally, it was a Gujarati specialty, but it underwent a significant transformation when it was introduced to Pune.
Throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s, many skillful innovators decided to give this traditional snack a twist by enhancing its flavors and perfecting its texture, making it crunchier and spicier than the original version.
Their innovation paid off. Soon, Bakarwadi became a household name in Pune, gracing the shelves of homes and becoming a go-to treat for festive occasions, tea-time breaks, and long journeys.
Today, Bakarwadi is hard to miss in Pune, with almost everyone from local shops to big names in the snack industry offering all kinds of variations of the delicious treat.
Today, Babu’s Laxminarayan offers the freshest, crispiest and most delectable bakarwadi, and remains a staple for Punekars, making for the most flavourful snacking experience!
The Art of Making Bakarwadi
What makes Bakarwadi special is its intricate preparation. The process begins with making the perfect dough by combining fine gram flour and wheat flour with spices.
This dough is rolled out thinly and filled with a tantalizing mixture of coconut, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, coriander, cumin, and a dash of jaggery or sugar for that hint of sweetness. The filling is then spread evenly before the dough is tightly rolled and sliced into bite-sized spirals.
The sliced rolls are deep-fried to a golden brown, resulting in a crisp exterior that bursts with flavors as soon as you take a bite. The balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes is what makes Bakarwadi an irresistible snack.
Achieving this balance requires precision, making it not just a snack but a craft perfected over generations.
A Snack Loved by All
Bakarwadi isn’t just a snack; it’s an emotion for many Punekars. It’s common to see travelers stock up on packets of Bakarwadi before heading back home, making it a favorite edible souvenir.
For the Marathi community, Bakarwadi is synonymous with comfort and nostalgia, whether it’s munching on it leisurely, late at night, or sharing it with friends and family during festive gatherings.
“Bakarwadi has always been my go-to snack. The crunch, the spice, everything about it is just perfect with chai. Truly a classic that never gets old.” , says Ravi Deshmukh from Pune.
After all, who hasn’t looked forward to opening a packet of bakarwadi at tea time, sharing the snack with friends in your college days, or squabbling over the last delicious piece? No matter the season, Punekars are sure to have a packet (or few) of this favourite snack ready in their kitchens.
Its popularity isn’t limited to Pune or even just Maharashtra. With the rise of e-commerce and online food delivery services, Bakarwadi is now available in various parts of India and even abroad.
Why Bakarwadi is Here to Stay
Pune’s love affair with Bakarwadi shows no signs of fading. Its universal appeal lies in its versatility- it’s perfect for tea-time, ideal for gifting, and great for satisfying sudden snack cravings.
More than just a snack, Bakarwadi represents the city’s spirit as a blend of tradition and innovation, simplicity, and sophistication.
As Pune continues to grow and evolve, its iconic snack will undoubtedly remain a symbol of its rich culinary heritage. So, the next time you visit Pune, don’t forget to grab a packet of Bakarwadi, a delicious piece of the city’s history and culture.
Final Thoughts
Bakarwadi’s journey from a regional specialty to a globally loved snack is a testament to Pune’s culinary ingenuity. Whether you’re a long-time fan or someone eager to try it for the first time, one thing is certain—the charm of Bakarwadi is timeless. And with each bite, you’re not just savoring a snack but experiencing a part of Pune’s vibrant food culture.