Food In Srinagar

Food History of Srinagar, Kashmir, India

The cuisine of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is rich and influenced by the culinary practices of Central Asian, Persian, and Middle Eastern cultures due to historical trade links. Kashmiri cuisine, which is known for its unique flavors and aromatic spices, has a long-standing tradition of slow-cooking processes, resulting in dishes with deep layers of flavor. Srinagar, in particular, is famous for its Wazwan – a multi-course meal that epitomizes the culinary tradition of the region, predominantly featuring lamb and chicken but also incorporating a variety of vegetarian dishes.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Srinagar, Kashmir for Tourists

1. Rogan Josh (Non-Veg): Aromatic lamb curry with a rich red gravy colored with Kashmiri chillies and flavored with a unique blend of spices.
2. Kashmiri Yakhni (Non-Veg): A creamy yogurt-based mutton curry infused with fennel seeds, dry ginger, and other warm spices.
3. Gushtaba (Non-Veg): Large mutton meatballs cooked in a flavorful yogurt gravy and a blend of spices, a classic dish usually reserved for special occasions.
4. Tabak Maaz (Non-Veg): Fried ribs of lamb marinated in milk and cooked with saffron and various spices, with a crispy exterior and tender meat.
5. Dum Aloo (Veg): Potatoes cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy of fennel, ginger, and other spices, a vegetarian favorite.
6. Haak (Veg): A simple, hearty dish of greens, typically collard greens, cooked with mild spices; it mirrors the love for fresh vegetables in Kashmiri cuisine.
7. Chaman (Veg): Fried paneer (cottage cheese) in a thick tomato-based gravy, accentuated with spices like fennel and cardamom.
8. Nadru Yakhni (Veg): Lotus stem cooked in a yogurt-based gravy, brimming with the aroma of dry mint and other spices, providing a unique texture and flavor to the palate.
9. Shufta (Veg): A dessert made from a mix of dry fruits, paneer, and spices, soaked in sugar syrup, highlighting the sweet aspect of Kashmiri cuisine.
10. Phirni (Veg): A creamy rice pudding flavored with cardamom and saffron, often garnished with nuts and served in earthenware bowls.

Top Famous Restaurants in Srinagar, Kashmir, India

• Ahdoos Restaurant
  Residency Road, Srinagar
  - Famous for its traditional Wazwan, particularly the Gushtaba (Non-Veg)
• Mughal Darbar
  Residency Road, Srinagar
  - Known for offering authentic Kashmiri Wazwan with delicacies like Rogan Josh (Non-Veg) and Dum Aloo (Veg)
• Shamyana Restaurant
  Boulevard Road, Dal Gate, Srinagar
  - Popular for its lakeside views and mouthwatering Shufta (Veg)
• Stream Restaurant
  Raj Bagh, Srinagar
  - Offers a blend of Kashmiri and continental dishes; notable for flavorful Haak (Veg) preparations
• Krystal Restaurant
  Lal Chowk, Srinagar
  - Has a diverse menu, but its Chaman (Veg) is a vegetarian's delight

These restaurants provide an insight into both the extravagant feasts for which Kashmir is famous, as well as the simpler, everyday fare that defines the local palate. Tourists are advised to check the status of these establishments prior to visiting, as situations can change with time.