From the time I have shifted to the USA, the one thing that I miss the most (other than my parents, of course) is seafood! A typical Maharashtrian platter of seafood is what I really crave for, at times. I think that's the reason why I keep thinking about the trip to Malvan we took in the summer of 2016.
It was around this time, during the May heat, that we were headed to Malvan for an exciting family adventure. It wasn't just the scenic beauty that had me enthralled, but the delish food took my breath away too. I clearly remember our first meal there. We were in an opposite hotel to a dark sand beach and ordered a fish thali each at their restaurant. Never before had I seen a darne of surmai (kingfish) so huge. I was shocked but devoured it, enjoying every bite and slurping on the solkadhi. Unfortunately, I wasn't an avid Instagrammer back then and don't have a top shot of the plate. When I was looking for pictures to put in the blog, I was quite upset to not find any food pictures to post. You see, I am not a foodie, and I guess, back then, I didn't think that the life-changing moment needs a picture for safe-keeping. I was so wrong!
Only one day of our trip, I had a vegetarian meal, and even that was so delicious. The freshness of the grated coconut chutney with thalipeet is unforgettable. I think it's the freshness of each ingredient, be it fish or coconut, that got to me and makes me want to remember this food journey, again and again.
The serene beaches, especially the Tarkarli beach and Ganapatipule beach, had my heart. The sunsets were pure joy to watch with the soft sand tickling the feet. Even our tour of the historical island fort, Sindhudurg, was so mesmerizing. Our tour guide kept us intrigued by the stories of the great Shivaji Maharaj, who built the fort in the 17th century. Our last stop of the trip was the town of Sawantwadi, known for its famous, indigenous artwork on wood.
When we were back home, I remember telling Deepak about this trip, and this was his epic reply, "You never speak about food so passionately, this is the first time." Doesn't that say how memorable this trip was in my life? I am glad I got to write about it too.
Love,
Rashmi B.
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