Uttarakhand, a land nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is known for its stunning natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage. The food of Uttarakhand is a reflection of its unique geography and culture, and is a must-try for any visitor to the state.
Popular dishes
Here are some of the most popular dishes of Uttarakhand:
- Kafuli: This signature dish of Uttarakhand is made with a variety of lentils, including urad dal, gahat dal, and masoor dal. It is slow-cooked with spices and herbs, and is often served with rice or roti.
- Dubuk: This Kumaoni dish is made with wheat flour dough that is rolled into thin sheets and then cut into small pieces. These pieces are then fried and simmered in a tomato-based gravy with spices and herbs. Dubuk is typically served with rice and bhang ki chutney.
- Baadi: Baadi is a traditional Garhwali dish made from urad dal batter that is steamed and then cut into small cubes. These cubes are then deep-fried and served with a hot curry or dal.
- Aloo ke gutke: This simple but delicious dish is made with boiled potatoes that are sautéed with spices like cumin seeds, red chili, and turmeric. It is often served with mandua (finger millet) or rice flour rotis.
- Chainsoo: This Kumaoni dish is made with a variety of leafy greens, including spinach, mustard leaves, and fenugreek. The greens are cooked with spices and herbs, and are often served with rice or roti.
- Jhangora ki kheer: This sweet dish is made with jhangora (millet) and milk. It is often flavored with sugar, cardamom, and nuts.
Other notable dishes
Other notable dishes of Uttarakhand include:
- Thhatwani: This Kumaoni dish is made with rice flour, urad dal batter, and yogurt. It is fermented overnight and then steamed and served with a hot curry or dal.
- Garhwal ka fannah: This Garhwali dish is a type of dal makhani made with black gram lentils, tomatoes, and spices. It is often served with rice or roti.
- Kumaoni raita: This raita is made with yogurt, cucumbers, onions, and spices. It is a refreshing and healthy accompaniment to any meal.
- Gulgula: This sweet dish is made with milk, sugar, and flour. It is often flavored with cardamom and nuts.
- Arsa: This sweet dish is made with rice flour and sugar. It is often deep-fried and served with a sweet chutney.
Where to eat
The best places to try the food of Uttarakhand are in the local restaurants and roadside dhabas. You can also find Uttarakhand cuisine in some of the major cities of India, such as Delhi and Mumbai.
Conclusion
The food of Uttarakhand is a delicious and unique reflection of the state’s geography and culture. If you are ever visiting Uttarakhand, be sure to try some of the local dishes. You won’t be disappointed!
Myma… Ghar jaisa nahi, Ghar ka khana!
