The regional cuisines of India are packed with different flavours that no foodie can resist. From simple snacks to hearty meals, Indian food can satisfy all your cravings. Moving towards the southern side, each state has some signature delicacies that are popular across the country. Speaking particularly about Hyderabad, which belongs to the state of Telangana, it is one of the most famous destinations for food enthusiasts.
Known for its rich history and culture, the city offers an array of flavours and textures. The royal cuisine of Hyderabad is also called Deccani cuisine. It is a beautiful and scrumptious amalgamation of Mughlai, Turkish, and Arabic cuisine with a little influence on Telugu and Marathwada food culture. So, if you are planning to visit Hyderabad recently, here are the top ten dishes to try in the city.
This is a classic dish of the city that is loved all over India. You can find this variety of biryani on every non-vegetarian restaurant’s menu across the country. But if you want to try the most authentic Hyderabadi biryani, do visit the city. Made with basmati rice, tender meat, and aromatic spices like red chilli powder, cardamom, and saffron, it is surely going to steal your heart.
This stew dish was introduced in Hyderabad during the rule of Nizams. Haleem is made with meat, lentils, and pounded wheat. It is also topped with dry fruits, saffron, and ghee to give it a rich texture and flavour. This delicious and healthy stew is mainly enjoyed during the month of Ramadan.
Boti Kebab
Kebabs have a special place in the hearts of every non-vegetarian lover. So, if you want to take a bite of succulent and flavourful boti kebab, pack your bags and go to Hyderabad. Made with well-marinated minced mutton, this juicy kebab will leave you drooling. It is also added to biryanis and rolls.
Double Ka Meetha
Also known as shahi tukda, this iconic street food of Hyderabad is very popular during Muslim weddings. Double ka meetha is a tempting and creamy dessert that is made with bread, sugar, ghee, and cream. It is also flavoured with saffron and cardamom. Shahi tudka is served both hot and cold.
Irani Chai
Irani chai is said to be the soul of Hyderabad. This tea was introduced in the city by Persians, and you can find it on the menu of every local café. It is best paired with the classic Osmania biscuits. This flavourful tea is made with tea powder, cardamom, milk, cinnamon, and cream.
Kheema Samosa
Samosas are a go-to evening snack all over the country. Commonly, this fried snack is prepared with a filling of spiced potatoes, but the Hyderabadi version can be heaven for non-vegetarians. Kheema samosa has a crispy exterior with a filling of minced meat. It is also relished with a cup of Iranian chai.
Paaya
Paaya is another special and comforting non-vegetarian dish from Hyderabad that is worth trying. It is made with marinated goat trotters and spices like garam masala, cardamom, and black pepper. This succulent and flavourful delight is best served with steaming hot rice, but you can also relish it with roti.
Nihari
This dish is particularly enjoyed during the festival of Eid. Nihari is a delicious lamb stew that satiates your soul. It is usually cooked overnight and sometimes buried underground to allow the essence of the masala to seep inside the meat. Nihari is best paired with naan or kulcha. This dish is usually cooked along with the marrow.
Mirchi Ka Salan
Paired with Hyderabadi biryani, this is another mouth-watering delicacy of the city that is worth trying. It is made with green chillies, peanuts, coconut, sesame seeds, tamarind, and a blend of flavourful spices like mustard seeds and Kashmiri red chilli. Mirchi ka salan is a spicy gravy dish that can tantalise your taste buds.
Osmania Biscuit
Last but not least, do try the iconic Osmania biscuit in Hyderabad and also bring some home for your family. This is a teatime snack that is named after the last Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan. These biscuits are made from all-purpose flour, sugar, and ghee, and they have a sweet taste and crispy texture.