Food In Uttarkashi

Food History of Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India

The cuisine of Uttarkashi, like much of Uttarakhand, is steeped in tradition and revolves around the staples of the mountain region. The food here is highly influenced by the agrarian lifestyle, where the use of locally grown lentils, cereals, and vegetables plays a vital role. Due to the harsh winters and rugged terrain, the food is designed to be nourishing and provides energy for the cold climate. Ayurvedic principles also influence the local cuisine, with an emphasis on food that aligns with the health and wellness of the body. Over time, these traditional practices have blended with external influences to create a unique culinary tradition in Uttarkashi.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Uttarkashi

1. Chainsoo (Veg) - A traditional protein-rich dal (lentil) dish made by grinding roasted kali dal into a fine paste and then cooking it with mountain spices.
2. Kafuli (Veg) - A nutritious spinach and fenugreek leaf-based curry that embodies the freshness of the local greens of Uttarakhand.
3. Gahat Ki Dal (Veg) - A local variety of kidney beans (also known as Kulath) cooked with local herbs and spices, often consumed during the cold months.
4. Aloo Ke Gutke (Veg) - A simple, yet flavourful preparation of boiled potatoes tossed with spices like cumin, coriander, and green chillies.
5. Jhangora Ki Kheer (Veg) - A dessert made from Jhangora (barnyard millet), milk, and sugar, often flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts.
6. Bhang Ki Chutney (Veg) - A tangy condiment made with hemp seeds, cumin, and tamarind water, served with most meals.
7. Mandua Ki Roti (Veg) - A type of flatbread made from mandua (finger millet) flour, a staple in the traditional Garhwali diet.
8. Bhatt Ki Churdkani (Veg) - A dish prepared with black soybeans, thick gravy and enjoyed with rice or roti.
9. Phaanu (Veg) - A rich dal dish made from different lentils like gahat, arhar, or green mung, cooked into a thick soup with local spices.
10. Thhatwani (Veg) - This is a soup-like dish prepared from different pulses and seasoned with a hearty amount of local herbs and spices.

Top Famous Restaurants in Uttarkashi with Their Specialties

• Shangrila Restaurant - Gangotri Highway, Uttarkashi
  Famous for: Chainsoo (Veg) and Aloo Ke Gutke (Veg)
• Himalayan Restaurant - Near Bus Stand, Uttarkashi
  Famous for: Local thali (Veg) featuring a variety of traditional dishes
• Kundan Residency Terrace Cafe - Bhatwari, Uttarkashi
  Famous for: Gahat Ki Dal (Veg) and Mandua Ki Roti (Veg)
• Annapurna Restaurant - Joshiyara, Uttarkashi
  Famous for: Kafuli (Veg) and Bhatt Ki Churdkani (Veg)
• Aditya Family Restaurant - Maneri, Uttarkashi
  Famous for: Jhangora Ki Kheer (Veg) and Bhang Ki Chutney (Veg)