Food History of Khammam, Telangana, India
The culinary history of Khammam, like much of Telangana, is deeply influenced by a mix of South Indian and Deccan cuisines. The region's food is known for its unique spice combinations and the extensive use of tamarind, sesame seeds, and red chilies. The staple foods of the area include rice, millets, and seasonal vegetables. Being close to the Godavari and Krishna rivers, Khammam enjoys a variety of fresh produce that is integral to its cuisine.
Throughout its history, Khammam has seen the influence of various cultures due to its strategic location, which is reflected in the food. The Nizams, who ruled the area for a long time, have left behind a rich legacy of culinary traditions that include slow-cooked dishes and a variety of breads. While the area is predominantly a rice-eating region, millets such as jowar and bajra are used extensively in the traditional rural kitchen.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Khammam
- Sakinalu: A traditional Telangana snack made of rice flour and sesame seeds. It is usually enjoyed during the festival of Sankranti. (Veg)
- Pesarattu: A type of moong dal dosa popular in Andhra and Telangana cuisine, often stuffed with upma and served with ginger chutney. (Veg)
- Sarva Pindi: A savory rice flour pancake mixed with chana dal, peanuts, and spices, which makes for a filling breakfast or evening snack. (Veg)
- Pulihora: Also known as tamarind rice, this tangy and spicy rice dish is considered a staple for festivals and special occasions. (Veg)
- Gutti Vankaya Curry: A spicy and flavorful curry made with stuffed eggplants, usually enjoyed with rice or roti. (Veg)
- Ulavacharu: A traditional horse gram soup that is both nutritious and rich in flavor, sometimes served with cream or butter on top. (Veg)
- Chintakaya Pachadi: A spicy tamarind chutney that serves as an accompaniment to various dishes. (Veg)
- Bellam Pongal: A sweet dish made of rice, jaggery, ghee, and cashews, often prepared during religious festivals. (Veg)
- Biryani: Although traditionally associated with meat, a vegetarian version of this fragrant and spiced rice dish is also popular in the city. (Veg)
- Bobbatlu: Also known as Puran Poli in other parts of India, this is a sweet flatbread filled with a mixture of jaggery and lentils. (Veg)
Top Famous Restaurants in Khammam
- Minerva Grand Restaurant
- Address: Wyra Road, Near NSP Camp Office, Khammam
- Famous Food: Vegetarian Thali, Pesarattu (Veg)
- Hotel Kaveri
- Address: 11-3-181/182, Balaji Nagar, Khammam
- Famous Food: Gutti Vankaya Curry, Ulavacharu (Veg)
- Venky’s Biryani Point
- Address: 11-4-16/A, Nehru Nagar, Khammam
- Famous Food: Vegetable Dum Biryani (Veg)
- Sanman Hotel Restaurant
- Address: Yellandu Cross Road, Mayuri Center, Khammam
- Famous Food: Sakinalu, Pulihora (Veg)
- 7 Spice Restaurant
- Address: Mamillagudem, Khammam
- Famous Food: Paneer Tikka, Veg Manchuria (Veg)
Note that the information is based on general knowledge and may require verification for specific details like addresses and current menu offerings.