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.
Kashmiri Pulao
Lal Lobia Rice
Roghan Josh
Mutton Biryani
Chouck Waangan
Yakhin Soap
Shab Dag
Khatta Meat
Kashmiri Saag
Seekh Kabab
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) Lal Lobia Rice
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious, non-meaty way to get some iron and protein in your system, then look no further than this Rajma Masala also known as Lal Lobia or Red Kidney Bean Curry.
3) 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.
4) Mutton Biryani
A hearty mutton biryani that will impress your guests instantly. Biryani is a dish that nobody can ever resist. Be it a dinner party or any celebratory occasion, biryani seems to be an ideal main dish to serve along with a spicy salan or refreshing raita.
5) 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.
6) Yakhin Soap
Yakhni Soup is a simple broth or stock with succulent pieces of mutton with bones added to it just like this mutton soup. Kashmiri cuisine is known for it’s unique method of making meat preparations.
7) Shab Dag
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.
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) Kashmiri Saag
Also famous as Karam Saag, Kashmiri Haak or Nadru Yakhni, the taste of Kashmiri Saag is as unique as its popular names. One of the most unique inventions of Kashmiri culinary culture, this popular side dish of Kashmir is simple to cook and healthy to eat.
10) Seekh Kabab
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.
Refreshment
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.