27 Best Delicious Food in Kashmir to Eat

2. Best Kashmiri Modur Pulao

What makes Kashmiri Modur Pulao so special

Modur Pulao is a special & famous Kashmir food name because it is sweet and savory at the same time. This Kashmir speciality food is made with rice, milk, and saffron. The saffron gives it a lovely golden color. It also has dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and raisins, which make it very rich and tasty. It is a dish that you will remember because of its unique flavor.

Ingredients and preparation

To make Kashmiri Modur Pulao, you need rice, milk, saffron, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and lots of dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and raisins. First, soak the rice in water. Then, cook it in milk with saffron to get that golden color. Add sugar and dry fruits to make it sweet and rich. The ghee gives it a lovely aroma and taste.

Best places to enjoy it in Kashmir

You can enjoy Modur Pulao at many places in Kashmir. Some of the best places to try this famous dish of Kashmir are Ahdoos Hotel and Pahalgham Hotel. They make it very delicious and you will love every bite.

3. Kashmiri Dum Olav (Dum Aloo)

Authentic taste and preparation

Dum Olav, also known as Dum Aloo, is a very tasty food in Kashmir. It is made with baby potatoes cooked in a thick, spicy gravy. The authentic taste comes from the special spices and the slow cooking method. This makes the potatoes very soft and full of flavor.

Traditional ingredients used

The traditional ingredients used in Dum Olav are baby potatoes, yogurt, fennel, ginger powder, and lots of hot spices. The potatoes are first fried and then cooked slowly in the spicy gravy. This makes them very tasty and flavorful.

Popular restaurants serving Dum Olav in Kashmir

If you want to try Dum Olav, you can go to Shamyana Restaurant and Krishna Vaishno Dhaba. These places are known for serving the best Dum Olav in Kashmir. They use traditional recipes and ingredients to make it just right.

4. Kashmiri Yakhni Lamb Curry

Unique aspects of Kashmiri Yakhni Lamb Curry

Yakhni Lamb Curry is a unique food in Kashmir because it is very creamy and rich. It is made with yogurt and mild spices, which gives it a very different taste from other lamb curries. The use of yogurt makes the gravy very smooth and delicious.

Ingredients and recipe

To make Yakhni Lamb Curry, you need lamb, yogurt, fennel seeds, dry mint leaves, and spices like cardamom and cloves. First, marinate the lamb in yogurt and spices. Then, cook it slowly in a gravy made with more yogurt and spices. The slow cooking makes the lamb very tender and tasty.

Recommended places to eat it in Kashmir

You can enjoy Yakhni Lamb Curry at Shamyana Restaurant and Lhasa Restaurant in Kashmir. These places are famous for their delicious Yakhni Lamb Curry. They use traditional recipes to make sure it tastes just like the original.

5. Kashmiri Goshtaba

Historical significance of Kashmiri Goshtaba

Goshtaba is a very special Kashmir famous food name. It is known as the dish of kings because it was made for royalty. This famous Food of Kashmir is usually served on special occasions like weddings and festivals. It is a must-try if you want to experience the royal taste of Kashmir.

Ingredients and preparation process

To make Kashmiri Goshtaba, you need minced mutton, yogurt, and spices. The mutton is made into meatballs and cooked in a creamy yogurt gravy. The process is slow and requires a lot of patience. The meatballs become very soft and the gravy is rich and flavorful.

Where to find the best Goshtaba in Kashmir

For the best Goshtaba, you should visit Kashmiri Kitchen and Matamaal. These restaurants are known for serving this royal dish with the authentic taste and flavors.

6. Kashmiri Kahva

Importance of Kahva in Kashmiri culture

Kahva is a traditional food in Kashmir that is very important in Kashmiri culture. It is a special green tea made with spices, saffron, and nuts. Kahva is served on special occasions like weddings and festivals. It is a warm and comforting drink that is loved by everyone in Kashmir.

Different variations of Kahva

There are many variations of Kahva. Some people add almonds and saffron, while others add walnuts and spices. Each household in Kashmir has its own way of making Kahva, making it a unique and special drink.

Best cafes to try Kahva in Kashmir

To try the best Kahva, visit Chaai Jaai and Stream Restaurant. These cafes serve delicious Kahva that will warm your heart and make you feel the true essence of Kashmir.

By trying these foods in Jammu and Kashmir, you will experience the rich and unique flavors that make Kashmiri cuisine so special. Enjoy your culinary journey through the best food in Kashmir!

Popular Snacks and Street Food in Kashmir to Try

Kashmir is not only famous for its beautiful landscapes but also for its delicious street food. Here are some of the best foods in Kashmir that you should try when you visit.

11. Momos

Momos are a popular snack in Kashmir. People love these tasty dumplings. Momos come with different fillings. Some are filled with meat like chicken or mutton. Others have vegetables like cabbage and carrots. Momos are steamed or fried and served with spicy red sauce. You can find momos at many street food stalls in Kashmir. Some of the best places to try momos are:

• Alchi Kitchen
• Kashmiri Kitchen

12. Kashmiri Thukpa

Thukpa is the best food in Kashmir to eat. It is a noodle soup that comes from Tibet. It is very popular in Kashmir. Thukpa is made with thick noodles and vegetables. Sometimes, it also has meat like chicken or mutton. The soup is full of flavors and is very tasty. Thukpa is perfect for cold days. You can enjoy Thukpa at:

• Lhasa Restaurant in Srinagar
• Wazwan Restaurant JKTDC in Srinagar

13. Butter Tea

Butter tea is a special drink in Kashmir. It comes from Tibet and is very unique. Butter tea is made with tea leaves, butter, and salt. Some people also add yak meat to it. This tea is creamy and has a salty taste. It is different from regular tea but very delicious. You can try butter tea at:

• Stream Restaurant in Srinagar

14. Khambir

Khambir is a local bread in Kashmir. It is round and brown with a thick crust. Khambir is made from whole wheat. People usually eat it with butter tea for breakfast. This bread is soft and tasty. You can find khambir at:

• Stream Restaurant in Srinagar

15. Nadir Monji

Nadir Monji is a popular food in Kashmir. It is made from lotus stem. The lotus stem is coated with a paste of gram flour and spices, then deep-fried. Nadir Monji is crispy and spicy. It is usually served with mint dip. You can enjoy Nadir Monji at:

• Stalls around Dal Lake

These snacks and street foods are some of the best foods in Kashmir. They are tasty and show the rich food culture of Kashmir. When you visit, make sure to try these Kashmir famous food names and enjoy the unique flavors of foods in Jammu and Kashmir.

Traditional Kashmiri Wazwan

16. Kashmiri Wazwan

Wazwan is a famous dish of Kashmir that is not just about food but also a big part of Kashmiri culture. It is a grand meal that includes many different dishes, mostly made of meat. Wazwan is important in Kashmiri culture because it is served during special events like weddings and big celebrations. This meal shows the love for cooking and eating in Kashmir. It is prepared with great care and is a source of pride for Kashmiri people.

Key Dishes in Wazwan

Wazwan includes many tasty dishes. Here are some of the key dishes you will find:

• Rista (Meatballs): Rista is one of the main dishes in Wazwan. It is made from minced meat, usually mutton, which is shaped into balls and cooked in a spicy red gravy.
• Tabak Maaz (Fried Lamb Ribs): Another important dish is Tabak Maaz. These are lamb ribs that are cooked until they are soft and then fried. They are crispy on the outside and very tasty.
• Seekh Kebabs: These are skewers of minced meat mixed with spices. They are grilled to perfection and are very juicy and flavorful.
• Other Significant Dishes: Wazwan also includes other dishes like Rogan Josh (a spicy lamb curry), Aab Gosh (mutton cooked in milk), and Marchwangan Korma (a hot and spicy mutton curry). All these dishes are part of the rich Kashmir speciality food tradition.

Experience Wazwan

To truly enjoy Wazwan, you should experience it the traditional way. Here are some tips:

How to Experience a Traditional Wazwan Feast: Wazwan is best enjoyed in a group. The dishes are served one after another on a big platter called a trami. It is a communal meal, so everyone shares the food. The feast starts with a hand wash ritual, and then the food is served by a Waza (Kashmiri chef).

Recommended Events and Places in Kashmir: You can experience a traditional Wazwan at weddings or during festivals in Kashmir. Some hotels and restaurants in Srinagar, the capital city, also serve Wazwan. Look for places like Mughal Darbar, Ahdoos, or Shamyana Restaurant. These places are known for their authentic Kashmiri Wazwan.

By enjoying Wazwan, you will get a taste of the best food in Kashmir. This meal is a great way to understand the rich food in Kashmir and the foods in Jammu and Kashmir. Whether you are trying the Kashmir famous food name like Rista or enjoying the dishes of Jammu and Kashmir at a local event, Wazwan is a must-try.

17. Sheermal

Sheermal is a sweet and delicious bread from Kashmir. It is soft, golden, and slightly sweet. This bread is a special treat and a Kashmir speciality food.

Ingredients and Preparation: 

To make Sheermal, you need flour, milk, saffron, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter). First, mix the flour and ghee. Then, add milk, sugar, and saffron to make a dough. Let the dough rest, then roll it into flat rounds and bake until golden. The saffron gives Sheermal a lovely color and unique taste.

Best Places to Enjoy Sheermal 

In Kashmir, you can enjoy Sheermal at many places. Some of the best spots are Mughal Darbar in Srinagar and Ahdoos in Pahalgam. You will love this famous dish of Kashmir!

18. Phirni

Phirni is a creamy and sweet pudding and best food in Kashmir. It is made with ground rice and milk. Phirni is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. This is another Kashmir famous food name you should know.

Ingredients and Cooking Method 

To make Phirni, you need ground rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom. First, boil the milk. Then, add the ground rice and cook until thick. Add sugar and cardamom for flavor. Sometimes, people add saffron or nuts on top for extra taste.

Where to Try Phirni in Kashmir 

You can try Phirni at many restaurants in Kashmir. Some of the best places are Shamyana Restaurant and Stream Restaurant in Srinagar. Don’t miss this famous dish of Kashmir!

19. Nadru Yakhni

Nadru Yakhni is a special dish in Kashmir made with lotus stems. It is a light and tasty yogurt-based curry that has a unique flavor. The lotus stems, called “Nadru,” are cooked with yogurt and mild spices, making this dish very soothing and delicious.

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To make Nadru Yakhni, you need lotus stems, yogurt, fennel powder, dry ginger powder, and some mild spices like cloves and cardamom. The lotus stems are sliced and cooked slowly with yogurt and spices. This slow cooking helps the flavors to mix well, creating a creamy and flavorful curry.

Where to Try Nadru Yakhni in Kashmir?

You can enjoy the best Nadru Yakhni at Ahdoos Restaurant in Srinagar. This restaurant is famous for its authentic Kashmiri dishes, and their Nadru Yakhni is a must-try.

20. Kashmiri Aab Gosht

Aab Gosht is another traditional food in Kashmir. This mutton dish is cooked in milk, which gives it a rich and creamy texture. The spices used are mild, making it very delicate and delicious.

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To prepare Aab Gosht, you need mutton, milk, green cardamoms, fennel seeds, and some mild spices. The mutton is slowly cooked in milk with these spices until it becomes tender and flavorful.

Where to Try Aab Gosht in Kashmir?

The Mughal Darbar in Srinagar is a great place to taste Aab Gosht. They are known for serving the best food in Kashmir, and their Aab Gosht is highly recommended.

21. Kashmiri Shufta

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To make Shufta, you need dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and raisins, along with paneer, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cardamom. All these ingredients are cooked together, creating a rich and sweet dish.

Where to Try Shufta in Kashmir?

Try Shufta at the Krishna Vaishno Dhaba in Srinagar. This place offers a variety of traditional sweets, and their Shufta is one of the best.

22. Kashmiri Saag

Kashmiri Saag is a healthy and tasty leafy green vegetable dish. It is made with spinach and other local greens, cooked with garlic and mild spices.

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To prepare Kashmiri Saag, you need fresh spinach, garlic, and spices like cumin and fennel seeds. The greens are cooked until they are soft and flavorful.

Where to Try Kashmiri Saag in Kashmir?
You can try the best Kashmiri Saag at Ahdoos Restaurant in Srinagar. This dish is perfect for those who love green vegetables and want to try the best food in Kashmir.

24. Kashmiri Haak

Kashmiri Haak is another famous leafy green vegetable dish. It is usually made with collard greens, cooked simply with mustard oil and spices.

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To make Kashmiri Haak, you need collard greens, mustard oil, green chilies, and some basic spices. The greens are cooked quickly, retaining their bright color and fresh taste.

Where to Try Kashmiri Haak in Kashmir?

Visit the Shamyana Restaurant in Srinagar to taste Kashmiri Haak. This dish is a favorite among locals and is known for its simplicity and flavor.

25. Kashmiri Kebabs

Kashmiri Kebabs are delicious meat skewers that are popular in Kashmir. They are made with minced meat and a blend of spices, grilled to perfection.

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To prepare Kashmiri Kebabs, you need minced meat (usually lamb), garlic, ginger, and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder. The meat is shaped onto skewers and grilled until juicy and flavorful.

Where to Try Kashmiri Kebabs in Kashmir?

The best place to try Kashmiri Kebabs is Mughal Darbar in Srinagar. They serve some of the finest kebabs, making it a top spot for the best food in Kashmir.

26. Kashmiri Chaman

Kashmiri Chaman is a popular vegetarian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese). It is cooked in a creamy sauce with spices, making it rich and delicious.

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To make Kashmiri Chaman, you need paneer, milk, fennel powder, turmeric, and other spices. The paneer is cooked in a spiced milk sauce until it is soft and flavorful.

Where to Try Kashmiri Chaman in Kashmir?
Krishna Vaishno Dhaba in Srinagar is a great place to try Kashmiri Chaman. Their vegetarian dishes are highly praised and offer an authentic taste of Kashmir.

27. Kashmiri Kofta

Kashmiri Kofta is a meatball dish that is very popular in Kashmir. The meatballs are made with minced meat and spices, cooked in a rich gravy.

Ingredients and Cooking Method: To prepare Kashmiri Kofta, you need minced meat, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The meatballs are cooked in a flavorful gravy made with tomatoes and spices.

Where to Try Kashmiri Kofta in Kashmir?

You can enjoy Kashmiri Kofta at Ahdoos Restaurant in Srinagar. They are known for their delicious meat dishes, making it a great place to experience the best food in Kashmir.

Enjoying the best food in Kashmir is not only about the taste but also about experiencing the rich culture and traditions of the region. So, when you visit Kashmir, don’t miss out on these amazing dishes!

Food Festivals in Kashmir

1. Tulip Festival

The Tulip Festival in Kashmir is a beautiful event. It happens in the spring when tulips are in full bloom. The festival is held in the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar. You can see thousands of colorful tulips here.

Food Stalls and Specialties 

During the Tulip Festival, there are many food stalls. You can try dishes of Jammu and Kashmir like Rogan Josh, Dum Olav, and Modur Pulao. There are also sweet treats like Sheermal and Phirni.

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit the Tulip Festival is from late March to early April. The weather is nice, and the tulips are blooming. This is a great time to enjoy the best food in Kashmir.

2. Saffron Festival

The Saffron Festival celebrates the saffron harvest. It happens in October in the Pampore region of Kashmir. Saffron is a very important spice in foods in Jammu and Kashmir.

Saffron-Based Dishes 

At the Saffron Festival, you can try many saffron dishes. Some favorites are Kahva, a saffron tea, and Modur Pulao, a sweet saffron rice. Saffron adds a special flavor to these Kashmir speciality food items.

Cultural Significance 

Saffron has been used in Kashmir for centuries. It is a big part of the culture and food in Kashmir. The Saffron Festival is a great way to learn about this spice and enjoy famous dish of Kashmir.

Conclusion

Kashmir has many delicious foods. From savory dishes like Rogan Josh and Dum Olav to sweet treats like Sheermal and Phirni, there is something for everyone. The best food in Kashmir is full of flavors and traditions.

If you visit Kashmir, you must try the local food. Enjoying foods in Jammu and Kashmir is a wonderful experience. You will love the rich tastes and unique dishes.

Final Thoughts on Experiencing the Food Culture in Kashmir 

Kashmiri cuisine is a big part of the culture. Festivals like the Tulip Festival and Saffron Festival are great times to visit. You can taste the famous dish of Kashmir and learn about the traditions. Kashmir is not just beautiful; it is a paradise for food lovers too!

FAQS for Best Food in Kashmir