The charm of Kashmir can be found in a variety of subtle details, such as the balmy sweetness of kahwa, the endless stretch of saffron fields, the first bite of flaky, fluffy barkhani bread, the sound of oars cutting through Dal Lake’s waters, the silence that follows the mosque’s sunset azaan, and the softly narrated Shayari of the kebab. Beyond every poem, photograph, and tribute that attempts to portray the area’s grandeur, Kashmir fascinates you at every turn.
Kashmir, a place that feels like heaven on Earth, is known for its beauty and mouthwatering delicacies that leave an unforgettable experience in the visitor’s memory. Kashmiri food, which draws mainly from Mughal and Kashmiri Pandit traditions, offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
If you’re dreaming of a food adventure in Kashmir, you are in the right place. Brace yourself for a flavourful ride while we take you through some of the five most unique & delicious dishes from Kashmiri cuisine.
Wazwan
Wazwan is not only a multi-course meal in Kashmiri cuisine. It’s a ceremony! Mainly served in a Trammi or traem during weddings, a true Wazwan consists of 36 courses. Wazwan preparation is regarded as an art form and a source of pride in Kashmiri culture. Under the supervision of a vaste waza (master chef), fifteen to thirty meat dishes are cooked overnight for almost 16 hours in special nickel-plated copper containers over simmering fires of wood, ideally from old fruit trees.
Kashmir Biriyani
Indians and their love for rich and flavourful cuisines need no introduction. Biryani is one such well-liked food that is enjoyed all around the nation. Every state imparts its unique flavor to this fragrant dish, including Awadhi Biryani, Hyderabadi Biryani, Sindhi Biryani, and more. Here we have got you a special recipe from Paradise on Earth that will elevate your biryani experience in no time.
Kashmiri Biryani has a sweet and mild flavor, in contrast to most biryanis, which are typically spicy. It is made with tender mutton pieces, dry fruits, milk, ghee, and saffron infused with the essence of kewra. The richness of Kashmiri Biryani makes it a divine dish to serve your guests for a royal feast!
Kashmiri Rogan Josh
Mutton rogan josh is an authentic, flavourful Lamb curry of Persian origin. It is the signature dish of Kashmir, where the name is derived from Persian words in which Rogan means oil and Josh means intense heat. This meal comes in two separate varieties. While the Pandits make it with yogurt, Kashmiri Muslims cook it with onion and garlic. The powdered Kashmiri chili peppers, which are more colorful than hot, give this dish its flaming red color. Additionally, Kashmiri pandits employ ratan jot or alkanet root to achieve a distinctive red color.
Naat Yakhni
Another iconic dish of Kashmir, Naat Yakhni, is cooked with mutton in a yogurt gravy and is a real treat for mutton fans. Yakhni is a yogurt-based gravy and does not have turmeric or red chili powder. Naat Yakhni is rich in exotic flavors of unique ingredients like mawal flowers, traditional Kashmiri spices, mint leaves, and onion gravy. This Kashmiri specialty is best served with rice and has a juicy gravy that is incredibly light on the stomach.
Kashmiri Haak
Kashmiri Haak or Nadru Yakhni is a typical Kashmiri Pandit dish of greens (saag in Hindi) and is as unique as its popular name. This side dish from Kashmir is one of the distinctive creations of Kashmiri culinary culture and is widely adored throughout the state and prepared in practically every Kashmiri home. Typically a Kashmiri Pandit dish, Kashmiri Saag is made with spinach, cooked in mustard oil, and spiked with cloves and a few spices to add a flare. A must-try!
Now you know why Kashmir is heaven, not only in terms of landscapes but for food too. Everyone should visit Kashmir once in their lifetime to enjoy the rich delicacies the state offers. Don’t forget to check out exclusively curated trips of the Kashmir Valley at Yatra.com. They have the best listings that will allow you to explore the valley in all its majesty, including the falvours of Kashmir. For more details, visit YATRA website.
Don’t worry if you can’t go to Kashmir to try these delicacies; we bring the Food of the Valley to you! Add some oomph to your special occasion or weekend by trying these delicious dishes from Kashmiri Cuisine curated by our own culinary masters. Order these delicious Kashmiri dishes at home, and let us know your favorite one. Visit Chef Rahul Wali.