Azad Kashmir, a beautiful region in the northern part of Pakistan, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. The traditional cuisine of Azad Kashmir is heavily influenced by its geographical location, history, and cultural traditions. In this blog, we will discuss the top 10 traditional foods of Azad Kashmir that you must try if you are a food lover.
1) Kashmiri Pulao
Kashmiri Pulao is a popular rice dish of Azad Kashmir, which is a mix of sweet and savory flavors. The rice is cooked with saffron, ghee, and a variety of nuts and dry fruits, including almonds, raisins, and cashews. This dish is usually served with a side of raita or yogurt.
2) Roghan Josh
Roghan Josh is a rich and flavorful lamb dish that originated in Kashmir. The lamb is cooked in a tomato-based gravy with a blend of aromatic spices, including cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and cumin. This dish is best served with naan or rice.
3) Harissa
Harissa is a traditional Kashmiri dish made from meat and wheat. The meat is slow-cooked with the wheat until it becomes a paste-like consistency. It is then flavored with aromatic spices and served with a generous amount of ghee and naan.
4) Gushtaba
Gushtaba is a luxurious dish that is typically served on special occasions in Azad Kashmir. It is made from finely ground lamb meatballs that are cooked in creamy yogurt gravy with a variety of spices. This dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice or naan.
5) Dum Aloo
Dum Aloo is a vegetarian dish made from boiled potatoes that are cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy with a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is usually served with naan or rice.
6) Seekh Kebab
Seekh Kebab is a popular appetizer in Azad Kashmir, made from spiced ground lamb that is skewered and grilled over charcoal. This dish is usually served with a side of mint chutney and onions.
7) Chouck Waangan
Chouck Waangan is a traditional dish of Azad Kashmir made from fried eggplants that are cooked in spicy tomato-based gravy. This dish is usually served with steamed rice or naan.
8) Khatta Meat
Khatta Meat is a unique and flavorful dish made from lamb meat that is cooked in a tangy and sour gravy made from tamarind and spices. This dish is usually served with steamed rice or naan.
9) Nadur Yakhni
Nadur Yakhni is a vegetarian dish made from lotus stems that are cooked in a creamy yogurt gravy with a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is usually served with steamed rice or naan.
10) Shab Deg
Shab Deg is a slow-cooked lamb and vegetable stew that is usually served during the winter months in Azad Kashmir. The lamb is cooked with a variety of vegetables, including turnips, carrots, and potatoes, with a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice or naan.
In conclusion, the traditional cuisine of Azad Kashmir is rich, flavorful, and diverse. From meat dishes to vegetarian options, Azad Kashmir has something to offer everyone. So, if you are a food lover, don't miss out on these mouth-watering dishes on your next visit to this beautiful region of Pakistan.
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