Also known as “Paradise on Earth,” Kashmir is laden with snow-capped mountains, majestic landscapes, and historical monuments. Apart from these elements, its food is another tenet that makes this beautiful destination an ideal place to vacation for all foodies. The cuisine of the Kashmiri Pandits and the Mughal Era mainly inspires its vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. That’s why each dish is flooded with rich aromas and vibrant flavors brought by the spices used in their preparation. If you want to get on board with this magical culinary journey, here are some of the most loved Jammu Kashmir dishes for an unforgettable culinary experience.
7 Jammu Kashmir Dishes For An Unforgettable Culinary Experience
- Paneer Chaman
- Kashmiri Saag
- Kashmiri Dum Aloo
- Goshtaba
- Lyodur Tschaman
- Aab Gosht
- Tabak Maaz
1. Paneer Chaman
Colloquially known as Ruangan Chaman, this flavorful vegetarian dish is as mouth-watering as Kashmir’s other elegant, meaty delicacies. Plus, if you’re an avid paneer lover, then the dish’s creamy flavors will surely make you crave another plate.
A plate of Paneer Chaman looks like a luscious slice of heaven. The brown and green cardamom complement the rich cottage cheese splendidly. This perfect blend of spices is what gives this dish its exquisite flavor. The paneer is cooked with milk to enhance its richness, and the pieces are then shallow-fried to give you that warm, golden texture.
You can pair this dish with some tandoori rotis, pickled onions, and steamed rice. For the complete Kashmir experience, relish this recipe on a balcony facing the dramatic landscape of the snowy peaks.
2. Kashmiri Saag
Kashmiri Saag is another most loved dish in Jammu Kashmir that you should try for an unforgettable culinary experience. Prepared with spinach, dry chilies, and garlic, the spicy flavors of this dish make you want to curl up in a blanket while enjoying the saag. Also, it’s safe to say that this spinach preparation is Popeye-approved, giving you another reason to try it!
To enjoy the poignant flavors of Kashmiri Saag, scoop up the mixture with some soft rotis. Or, you can balance the spiciness with some yogurt and rice, if your palate needs something less intense. Kashmiri saag, though known to be a poor man’s dish, is loved by the rich and poor alike in the valley, and is a must-try if you’re visiting Kashmir.
3. Kashmiri Dum Aloo
Who doesn’t love a bowlful of flavorful potatoes? And to satisfy your potato cravings, this is the one dish in Kashmir that you have to try. Dum Aloo is prepared by lightly frying baby potatoes in a yoghurt-based gravy. The spiciness of the dish is brought out by the Kashmiri red chilies, but it’s done in such a way that it’s not overpowering in any manner. The fennel and ginger powder provides the dish with a well-rounded flavor and an irresistible aroma. Just a morsel of Dum Aloo can make you want to eat this Kashmiri preparation for the rest of your life!
You can relish it with some Basmati rice or butter naan as well. The spiciness of the Dum Aloo is especially enjoyed with some hot, steamy Basmati rice. They are a match made in heaven!
4. Goshtaba
Kashmiris have a special place in their hearts for red meat and this is a known fact. And one of the most delightful dishes you can savor in Kashmir is Goshtaba. Also known as “The Dish of Kings,” this traditional delicacy has a taste of shahi pakwaan (royal foods), and it’s prepared for every special occasion in Kashmir.
The mutton dumplings infused with a variety of herbs and spices will offer a burst of flavor in your mouth. The silky and smooth texture provided by the yoghurt makes it even more appealing to the eye. After all, you consume food with your eyes as well! The best part of this delightful mixture is that it goes well with rice or naan. So, what’s stopping you from trying this rich meatball curry?
5. Lyodur Tschaman
Kashmir has a plethora of vegetarian delicacies added to its cuisine, and Lyodur Tschaman is one of them. This is another paneer dish, so you’re in luck if you’re a paneer fanatic. Appropriately named Lyodur Tschaman meaning ‘yellow cottage cheese’, the dish stars turmeric and paneer in the forefront. Kashmiri households cook this dish with generous amounts of cream, and curd, along with other light spices. The rich and creamy flavor is bound to get you full after having a plate of this delicious delicacy.
To complement the richness of the dish, pair it with some butter naan or rice with ghee. It’ll ensure that you have the optimum tasting experience. So, grab your friends and share a portion of Lyodur Tschaman for a savory time and sweet memories!
6. Aab Gosht
Another non-vegetarian dish you can add to your list of dishes to savor in Jammu & Kashmir is Aab Gosht. It’s rich and not heavy on spice but entertains you with a burst of flavors, morsel after morsel. Usually made with lamb or mutton, the meat is slow-cooked in a milk-based gravy. A pinch of black pepper is added to give you that extra zing. The meat just melts in your mouth and its delicate nature will leave you craving for more.
People will serve Aab Gosht with a piping bowl of rice, but you can have it with plain rotis too. It all boils down to your palate after all. With its simple spices and easy preparation, this dish is a great example of less is more.
7. Tabak Maaz
This Kashmiri version of fried lamb ribs is one of Kashmir’s most famous snacks. You will get the fragrant flavor of cardamom since both brown and green pods are extensively used in the making of this dish. The lamb chops are first cooked in cardamom-flavored milk and then simmered with yogurt, spices, saffron, and Kashmiri garam masala.
You’ll get the strong pungent pangs once you take a generous bite of this irresistible dish. The rib pieces have a brownish tinge since it’s pan-fried. The dish aims to please you with its rich and spicy taste. Enjoy this snack on its own or with some freshly made chapatis.
Summing Up
These are some of the most loved Jammu Kashmir dishes for an unforgettable culinary experience. The cuisine of Jammu & Kashmir reflects its history and culture with its rich creamy, and aromatic flavors. There will always be a party in your mouth tasting these Kashmiri dishes, and we hope you have a splendid time doing so.
FAQs
What Is The Famous Food Of Jammu Kashmir?
Some of Jammu & Kashmir’s most famous dishes are Paneer Chaman, Goshtaba, Aab Gosht, and Kashmiri Saag.
Which Fruit Is Famous In Jammu?
The beautiful state has many fruits growing in its subtropical areas such as apples, pears, cherries, mangoes, papayas, etc.
Do We Get Veg Food In Kashmir?
Kashmir does have a plethora of vegetarian dishes that’ll tantalize your taste buds such as Kashmiri Dum Aloo, Paneer Chaman, and Lyodur Tschaman.
What Is Special In Jammu And Kashmir?
Many know Jammu & Kashmir for its natural attractions such as Kashmir Valley, Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, and Gulmarg.
What Is The Footwear Of Kashmir?
Pulhoer is the traditional footwear of Kashmir. Made of straw, this ancient footwear bears a similar resemblance to slippers.
How Far Is Kashmir From Katra?
Kashmir is about 110 km from Katra by road.
