Food In Hunza

Food History of Hunza, Pakistan

The Hunza Valley, nestled within the mountainous regions of Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and the longevity of its inhabitants, which many attribute to their diet. The traditional Hunza diet consists of a variety of organic foods that are locally grown and harvested. It includes a range of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy products—food items that are natural and contain high nutritional value. The consumption of fresh glacial water and the minimal intake of meat also contribute to their healthy lifestyle. Additionally, the traditional storage and preservation methods, such as drying fruits and fermenting grains to make "Hunza water" or Shubat (fermented dairy drink), are significant components of their cuisine.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Hunza, Pakistan for Tourists

1. Chapshuro (Non-Veg) - A kind of local pizza, Chapshuro is filled with a mixture of chopped meat (typically yak or chicken), vegetables, and fresh herbs, then cooked over an open flame.
2. Harissa (Non-Veg) - A wheat and meat-based dish, often enjoyed during the cold winter months for its warming properties.
3. Mulgogi (Veg) - This is a whole wheat pan bread commonly consumed with various types of soups and stews.
4. Diram Fitti (Veg) - A buckwheat bread, that is a staple in traditional Hunza cuisine, is often enjoyed with tea.
5. Gialing (Veg) - A pancake made from buckwheat flour, accompanied by a side of apricot oil, is a staple breakfast item.
6. Dawdoo (Veg) - This is a spinach soup that incorporates local herbs and is hailed for its health benefits.
7. Shishki (Veg) - A type of pasta or dumpling soup prepared with vegetables and various spices that bring out a unique flavor.
8. Berikutz (Veg) - A traditional finger food snack, it's made from apricot seed flour and wheat flour mixed to make dough, which is then fried.
9. Hoi Lo Garma (Veg) - A special soup that contains a flavorful combination of beans, grains, and leafy greens.
10. Yak Butter Tea (Veg) - Not a food dish, but a traditional beverage that has a unique, salty flavor and is often consumed to keep warm.

Top Famous Restaurants in Hunza, Pakistan

1. Cafe de Hunza
   Address: Karimabad, Hunza
   Famous Food: Walnut Cake (Veg), Hunza tea
   
2. Eagle's Nest Hotel & Restaurant
   Address: Duikar, Altit, Hunza
   Famous Food: Traditional Hunzai Dishes (Veg options available)
   
3. Gilgit Baltistan Food Pavilion
   Address: Attabad Lake, Hunza
   Famous Food: Local Hunza Cuisine, Fresh Trout Fish (Non-Veg)
   
4. Hidden Paradise Hunza
   Address: Main Karimabad, Hunza
   Famous Food: Organic Hunza Foods (Veg options available), Apricot Walnut Cake (Veg)
   
5. Borith Lake Hotel & Resort
   Address: Gulmit, Hunza
   Famous Food: Local Gilgit Baltistan Dishes (Veg options available), Yak Meat (Non-Veg)
   

Note: While most traditional meals in Hunza can consist of meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options to cater to all dietary preferences.