Kashmiri street food reflects the region's diverse cultural heritage, shaped by centuries of influences from Central Asia, Persia, and North India. The cuisine of Kashmir is known for its robust flavours, generous use of spices, and harmonious balance of sweet and savoury elements. It is a treasure trove of culinary delights that will transport you to a world of sensory pleasures.
From savoury kebabs to fried snacks and indulgent desserts, the streets of Kashmir offer a myriad of flavours that cater to every palate. The street food scene is a vibrant tapestry of delicacies, where traditional recipes passed down through generations coexist with modern twists, ensuring a delightful fusion of old and new.
As you venture through the bustling streets, be prepared to encounter enticing aromas wafting from sizzling grills and an array of snacks and sweets. Experience the joy of savouring Rogan josh rolls, succulent kebabs, kahwah, and the signature Noon Chai, a pink-coloured salt tea that will awaken your senses.
Here are 10 Kashmiri street foods you might not want to miss on your travels to this beautiful valley:
· Kashmiri Seekh Kebab
Kashmiri seekh kebab is a type of kebab made from minced meat, typically lamb or chicken, mixed with a unique blend of aromatic spices and herbs.
The key element that sets Kashmiri seekh kebab apart is the use of special ingredients like saffron, fennel seeds, and Kashmiri red chili powder, which lend a distinct flavour and vibrant red colour to the kebabs. The minced meat is combined with these spices, along with ginger, garlic, and onions, to create a flavourful mixture.
Traditionally, Kashmiri seekh kebab is prepared by skewering the meat mixture onto long metal skewers and grilling them over hot charcoal, giving them a smoky and charred flavour. The kebabs are often served with mint chutney, sliced onions, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, enhancing the taste and presentation.
These succulent kebabs are loved for their tender texture, rich flavours, and aromatic spices. They are enjoyed as appetisers, snacks, or as a main-course in meals.
· Halwa Puri
Kashmiri halwa puri is a delectable traditional dish that originates from the beautiful region of Kashmir in India. This mouth-watering delicacy consists of two main components: the rich and aromatic Kashmiri halwa, a sweet semolina-based dessert, and the fluffy and crispy puri, a deep-fried bread.
The halwa, made with ghee, sugar, and a blend of cardamom, saffron, and dry fruits, exudes a heavenly fragrance and has a velvety texture that melts in your mouth. The puri, prepared with wheat flour, is fried to perfection, resulting in a golden brown, puffed bread that complements the halwa perfectly. Kashmiri halwa puri is a beloved breakfast or brunch option, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, as it provides a delightful fusion of flavours and a satisfying start to the day.
· Gaade Monje
Gaade monje is one of the most popular street foods in Kashmir. This dish is made using freshwater fish, chilli paste, and other spices. The fish is marinated in these spices, dipped into a thick gram flour batter, and then fried to perfection. This dish is typically served with chutneys and salads. Its aromatic smell and delicious taste attract both tourists and visitors alike, making it one of the most sought-after dishes on the streets of Kashmir.
· Kruhun Masalle
Kruhun masalle is a Kashmiri streetside snack made from steamed or boiled Kashmiri black beans. It is seasoned with spices and lemon juice and given a mix before being served in a newspaper cone. A handful of this snack can keep you walking from one market to another all day, as it is packed with energy, fibre, and lots of protein.
· Noon Chai And Lavasa
Noon chai, also known as Kashmiri pink tea, is a unique and aromatic beverage that holds a special place in Kashmiri cuisine. Its vibrant pink hue and distinct flavours make it an iconic part of the region's culinary tradition. Noon chai, or sheer chai, is a creamy milk tea that gets its pink hue from a pinch of baking soda that is added while making the tea.
This is infused with cardamom, cinnamon, and a garnish of minced pistachios and almonds. When paired with lavasa, a thin unleavened bread, the combination becomes a delightful treat for the taste buds. The earthy, and slightly salty flavour of lavasa slathered with butter beautifully complements the rich and creamy notes of noon chai.
· Girda
Girda is a mouth-watering Kashmiri special bread. It is a traditionally baked bread made using all-purpose flour, also called maida, wheat flour, also called atta, and clarified butter, also known as ghee. All these ingredients are mixed together in a bowl to make a dough. Once the dough is fermented, it is baked in a tandoor or clay oven to make this bread. Girda has a crispy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. It is most commonly served as breakfast along with chai and bhurji. Girda can also be enjoyed with an array of vegetarian and meat gravies.
· Kahwah
Kahwah, the traditional green tea of Kashmir, is a beverage that embodies the essence of warmth, hospitality, and rich flavours. Served in delicate, intricately designed glass cups, kahwah holds a special place in Kashmiri culture and is considered a symbol of welcome and camaraderie.
Prepared by boiling green tea leaves with a medley of aromatic spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron, Kawa exudes a mesmerising fragrance that awakens the senses. The tea is then sweetened with honey or sugar, creating a delightful blend of flavours that is both refreshing and comforting.
What sets kahwah apart is its unique combination of taste and health benefits. It is known for its soothing properties, aiding digestion, and providing a sense of relaxation. Sipping on a cup of kahwah is not just about indulging in a delicious beverage; it is also about embracing a moment of tranquility and reflection.
· Khand Gaziri
Khand gaziri is one of Kashmir’s favourite street snacks. This snack is sweet and crispy, and it is dipped in sugar syrup, giving it all the more flavour. Khand gaziri is made using flour dough and clarified butter, also known as ghee. Once cooked, these snacks are then dipped in sugar syrup, giving them a candy-like texture. This snack is a favourite among children as it is the perfect balance of sweet and crispy, making it a fun and tasty snack to enjoy.
· Tille Karre
Tille karre is a popular Kashmiri streetside snack. These are crispy fritters that are typically made using ingredients such as chickpeas or dried green peas, which are dipped into rice flour batter and then deep fried in oil until golden brown in colour. Tille karre can also be made using gram flour, all-purpose flour, or even a mix of both. These are the perfect snacks to curb your hunger and satisfy those teatime cravings.
· Lal Shangram
This sweet treat is made by combining flour, sooji (semolina), and sugar, which are then deep-fried in ghee (clarified butter) to achieve a crispy and golden exterior. As you take a bite, you'll experience the delightful contrast between the crunchy outer layer and the soft, spongy texture of the flour mixture inside.This indulgent snack is often enjoyed during teatime with a cup of kahwah or noon chai.
Kashmiri street food offers a captivating culinary journey filled with vibrant flavours, aromatic spices, and rich traditions. From the succulent kebabs to the fragrant Modur Pulao and indulgent Phirni, each dish tells a story and reflects the cultural heritage of Kashmir. Whether it's sipping on a cup of Kawa or relishing the crispiness of Aloo Tikki, Kashmiri street food entices the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression. So, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kashmiri street food and savour the diverse and delightful flavours that this region has to offer.