If you have ever explored the food culture of Uttarakhand, you must have come across Thichwani – a traditional dish from the Garhwal region that celebrates simplicity and earthy flavours. Unlike most curries, Thichwani is unique because the main ingredient – potatoes (sometimes radish too) – is not cut with a knife but crushed coarsely with a stone or pestle, giving the dish its authentic texture and taste.

What is Thichwani?

The name Thichwani comes from the Garhwali word “thinchna” meaning to crush or mash. It is a wholesome, semi-thick curry made with coarsely pounded potatoes, flavored with local spices and tempered with mustard seeds, garlic, and green chilies. The rustic preparation style keeps the rawness of the ingredients intact, making every bite comforting and hearty.

Ingredients Used in Thichwani

• Crushed potatoes (sometimes radish is added)
• Onion, garlic, and ginger
• Green chilies for spice
• Mustard seeds & cumin seeds for tempering
• Coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder
• A drizzle of mustard oil for that authentic Pahadi punch

How It’s Cooked

1. Potatoes are crushed roughly with a stone or wooden pestle.

2. In hot mustard oil, mustard seeds and cumin seeds are tempered with garlic and chilies.

3. Crushed potatoes are added along with spices.

4. Water is poured in to make a semi-thick curry.

5. It’s slow-cooked until potatoes soak up all the earthy flavors.

Why Thichwani is Special

• Rustic & authentic – prepared without using fancy tools.
• Comfort food – warming and filling, especially in cold mountain weather.
• Nutritious & simple – made from everyday kitchen ingredients.
• Tradition on a plate – connects people to their roots in the hills.

Perfect Pairing

Thichwani is best enjoyed with Mandua ki Roti (finger millet flatbread), Bhaat (hot steamed rice), or simple wheat chapati. A side of Pahadi chutney made with bhang (hemp seeds) or sesame elevates the taste even more.

Thichwani is not just a dish, it’s an experience of Garhwali culture and warmth. If you ever visit Uttarakhand, don’t miss the chance to taste this comforting Pahadi curry prepared in its authentic style.

ALSO WATCH THIS VIDEO ON PAHADI – THICHWANI

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