This beautiful valley of Kashmir is not just a heaven in terms of stunning landscapes but also a paradise for foodies.
The local cuisine is rich and full of unique flavors that the region’s history, climate, and traditions can provide. When you are visiting this beautiful valley, you should definitely try the following must-eat foods in Kashmir.
Here are the 10 best local dishes you must eat in Kashmir:
Rogan Josh
This is probably the most celebrated local dish from Kashmir. This dish is nothing but a lip-smacking curry made of aromatic spices like fennel, ginger, and Kashmiri red chilies from lamb.
Although the dish turns red in color, it does not have the scorching taste. Enjoy it with rice or naan. The mouth-watering experience comes when you let the spicy gravy melt down the tender meat.
If you love trying different meat dishes, Rogan Josh should be at the top of your list.
Yakhni
Yakhni is a creamy yogurt-based mutton curry prepared with fennel seeds, dry mint, and cardamom. While curries can be hot and aromatic, Yakhni is cool and comforting to the taste buds, even for those who find their winter a little too cold.
Its light gravy straddles tender pieces of mutton apt for very mild food lovers. It is served with steamed basmati rice which enhances these delicate flavors.
Dum Aloo
Dum Aloo is a favorite among the vegetarians, and it is made from baby potatoes that are slow-cooked in a rich, spicy yogurt-based gravy.
Potatoes are deep-fried and then slow-cooked with Kashmiri spices that burst out flavor in every mouthful. It is very delicious when served with rice or roti.
The soft, flavorful potatoes soak in the spices and become mouthwatering. It is often made on special occasions during festivals and family gatherings in Kashmir.
Modur Pulao
Modur Pulao is a sweet Kashmiri rice dish cooked with milk, ghee, saffron, and dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and raisins.
And yes, the saffron mixed with sweetness of dry fruits makes it an utterly different dish you must try. The soft, fragrant rice along with crunchy nuts and juicy raisins will create a great mix of textures and flavors.
The dish is often prepared during special occasions and is a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Goshtaba
Goshtaba is a dish that is mostly served on special occasions. It is made from minced mutton, which is shaped into soft meatballs and cooked in a creamy yogurt gravy.
The dish is rich and flavorful, showing the royal heritage of Kashmiri cuisine. The meatballs are so tender and juicy that they absorb the creamy, tangy flavors of the gravy.
This dish is usually reserved for celebrations, making it a special treat whenever you get to taste it.
Kashmiri Saag (Haak Saag)
Haak Saag is a simple yet delicious dish made with collard greens or Kashmiri spinach. Cooked with minimal spices, it highlights the natural taste of the greens. This healthy dish is usually eaten with rice.
The soft, slightly bitter greens are comforting, especially when paired with warm rice and a bit of ghee. It’s a simple, everyday dish that showcases the freshness of Kashmiri vegetables.
Nadru Yakhni
Nadru yakhni is a Kashmiri traditional curry prepared with lotus stem (nadru) in a light yogurt-based gravy, seasoned with mild spices.
The crunchy texture of the lotus stem gives the dish a unique twist, making it a must to try. The slightly earthy taste of the lotus stem blends quite well with the creamy, tangy gravy.
It’s that kind of dish which hits all the right notes in terms of flavor and texture that people from both regions are seen falling for it.
Aab Gosht
Aab Gosht is a mutton dish cooked in a rich, creamy milk-based gravy with cardamom and black pepper. This dish is less spicy but packed with flavors, offering a different taste compared to the usual curries.
The soft mutton pieces soaked in the creamy, fragrant gravy make each bite a delight. It’s a comforting dish that warms you up, especially during the cold weather in Kashmir.
Shufta
Shufta is a Kashmiri sweet, prepared using dry fruits, paneer, and a blend of spices. Sugar is used for sweetening it, and it is flavored with saffron. It is one of the richest sweets offered on wedding ceremonies and special events.
Crunchy nuts and soft paneer mixed with warm flavor of saffron give this a unique and delectable taste. It’s an excellent way to round off a sumptuous Kashmiri meal.
Kehwa
A visit to Kashmir is incomplete if you haven’t tasted Kehwa, that is, Kashmiri green tea, which has saffron, cardamom, and almonds in it.
It makes for a soothing warm drink and is often sipped after the meal. A light refreshing drink, Kehwa helps one digest and feel warm.
Given in beautiful copper cups, Kehwa becomes not just a drink but also an experience through which the richness of Kashmir hospitality is experienced.
Final Thoughts
Local cuisine in Kashmir mirrors the rich culture and traditions in the valley. Whether you love spicy curries, comforting stews, or sweet treats, there’s something for everyone.
So, on your visit to Kashmir, ensure you try the local dishes and experience the real taste of the valley.