Food In Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand, India: Food History

The food in Jim Corbett is heavily influenced by the cuisines of the Kumaon and Garhwal regions of Uttarakhand. The traditional food here is simple, nutritious, and largely vegetarian, in line with the dietary habits influenced by the local Hindu communities. Staple ingredients include grains like rice and wheat, pulses, leafy vegetables, and a variety of herbs and spices that add a unique flavor to the cuisine.

The food in this region also reflects the simplicity and frugality of the hill folk. Dairy products like milk, ghee (clarified butter), and paneer (a type of cottage cheese) are extensively used in cooking. The use of locally grown produce and the absence of overly spicy dishes is a hallmark of the Kumaoni cuisine, which stands out in Uttarakhand, and by extension in the heartland of Corbett.

Top 10 Must-Try Dishes in Jim Corbett

1. Aloo ke Gutke - A simple yet flavorsome snack made of boiled potatoes spiced with coriander leaves, green chillies, and various Kumaoni spices. (Vegetarian)
2. Bhatt ki Churkani - A rich and hearty black bean dish often served with steamed rice. (Vegetarian)
3. Gahat (Kulath) Soup - A traditional soup made from horse gram, believed to have medicinal properties. (Vegetarian)
4. Kafuli - A spinach and fenugreek based thick gravy dish, which is part of the local staple diet. (Vegetarian)
5. Jhangora ki Kheer - A dessert made from a local variety of millet, milk, and sugar, flavored with cardamom. (Vegetarian)
6. Baadi - Made from Kwada ka Aata (Choon or Mandua flour), this is usually paired with Gahat ki Dal. (Vegetarian)
7. Phaanu - A lentil-based dish, it is made from mixed dals and is usually enjoyed with rice. (Vegetarian)
8. Chainsoo - A dish prepared from Urad Dal (black gram) and is known for its unique taste and nutritional value. (Vegetarian)
9. Bal Mithai - A famous sweet of the region, it is made with khoya (reduced milk) and coated with white sugar balls. (Vegetarian)
10. Chutkani - A tangy and spicy dish made with potatoes, typically enjoyed with rice or chapatti. (Vegetarian)

Top Famous Restaurants in Jim Corbett with Famous Dishes

1. Corbett's Call of the Wild Safari Lodge
   Address: Sawal Deh West, Ramnagar, Corbett
   Famous Dish: Bhatt Ki Churkani (Vegetarian)
2. Jim's Grill
   Address: Jim Corbett National Park, The Corbett View Resort, Dhela
   Famous Dish: Vegetable Kebabs and Tandoori Roti (Vegetarian)
3. The Grill Kabab Treat Restaurant
   Address: Jim Corbett National Park, Marchula
   Famous Dish: Paneer Tikka (Vegetarian)
4. Village Vatika Restaurant
   Address: Ramnagar, Corbett
   Famous Dish: Aloo Ke Gutke (Vegetarian)
5. Foodies Restaurant
   Address: Dhikuli, Corbett
   Famous Dish: Gahat (Kulath) Soup (Vegetarian)

Although non-vegetarian food is also popular with some tourists and is offered in a number of eateries, a notable emphasis is placed on vegetarian cuisine in Jim Corbett due to the predominantly vegetarian local communities and reverence for wildlife and nature in the region.