10 superb foods to eat while in Kashmir

Kashmir, known as the “paradise on earth,” is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its delicious and unique cuisine. The cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Here are some must-try foods in the place:

1. Rogan Josh:

A signature Kashmiri dish, Rogan Josh is a flavorful lamb curry cooked in a rich gravy made with yogurt, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices. It is typically served with steamed rice or Kashmiri naan. This is a dish made with tender chunks of meat (typically lamb or goat) cooked in a rich and aromatic gravy. It is flavored with traditional spices like ginger, garlic, fennel, and Kashmiri red chili powder.

2. Kashmiri Pulao:

This fragrant rice dish is cooked with a variety of dried fruits and nuts like raisins, walnuts, and almonds, along with aromatic spices such as cardamom, saffron, and cloves. It is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

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Made with basmati rice, dried fruits like almonds and raisins, and a variety of spices, the pulao is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish. It often includes saffron, which gives it a vibrant yellow color.

3. Dum Aloo:

Dum Aloo is a popular vegetarian dish made with baby potatoes cooked in a gravy of yogurt, ginger, fennel, and a special blend of Kashmiri spices. It is usually enjoyed with warm rotis or rice.

4. Yakhni:

Yakhni is a yogurt-based curry typically made with chicken or mutton. It is flavored with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, and is cooked to perfection. Yakhni is best enjoyed with steamed rice or Kashmiri pulao.

Yakhni is a mild and aromatic yogurt-based curry, usually made with chicken or mutton. It is flavored with spices like fennel, cardamom, and cinnamon and is best enjoyed with steamed rice.

5. Gushtaba:

Considered a delicacy in the place, Gushtaba is a meatball curry made with minced lamb that is hand pounded. The meatballs are cooked in a rich yogurt-based gravy and seasoned with spices. It is usually served with steamed rice.

Gushtaba is a rich and creamy meatball curry. The meatballs are made from minced mutton, soaked in a yogurt-based gravy. It is typically served with naan or rice.

6. Kashmiri Kebabs:

These succulent kebabs are made from minced lamb or chicken, marinated in a combination of spices like coriander, cumin, ginger, and garlic. Grilled to perfection, they are a must-try for meat lovers.

The cuisine is famous for its variety of kebabs, including Seekh Kebabs and Tabak Maaz (fried ribs). These succulent and flavorful grilled meat dishes are usually made with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

7. Noon Chai (Kashmiri Pink Tea):

A traditional tea, Noon Chai is known for its unique pink color, which comes from a combination of green tea leaves, milk, salt, and baking soda. It is often served with crispy breads or biscuits.

A traditional beverage, Kahwa is a fragrant green tea infused with spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and almonds. It is often served with dried fruits and nuts, making it a refreshing and comforting drink.

8. Sheer Chai (Kashmiri Noon Chai):

Sheer Chai is a variation of tea, lightly flavored with green cardamom and cooked with milk, sugar, and tea leaves. It has a creamy and delicious taste and is often enjoyed with traditional Kashmiri breads.

Also known as Noon Chai or Pink Tea, is a unique salted tea that is a popular drink. It is made with green tea leaves, milk, salt, and sometimes, a dash of baking soda, which gives it a pink color.

9. Kashmiri Bakery:

Don’t miss sampling the delectable baked goods, such as Shirmal (sweet bread), Kulcha (stuffed bread), and Baqerkhani (crispy layered bread). These traditional bakery items are a delight to the taste buds.

10. Phirni:

End your meal on a sweet note with Phirni, a creamy rice-based dessert flavored with saffron, cardamom, and nuts. It is rich, indulgent, and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

While exploring the culinary delights, keep in mind that the local cuisine tends to be savory and may not be as spicy as some other Indian cuisines. Embrace the unique flavors and enjoy the mouth-watering dishes that the place has to offer.

These are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can experience in Kashmir. The region offers a wide range of flavors and culinary delights that will truly tantalize your taste buds.