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Sindhi cuisine is a tapestry of flavours deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Sindhi people, who hail from the Sindh region of Pakistan and some parts of India. The culinary landscape of Sindhi cuisine is characterised by its bold and robust flavours, often attributed to the generous use of aromatic spices and herbs.
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From fiery curries to fragrant biryanis, each dish tells a story of tradition, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Sindhi people. From hearty stews to aromatic biryanis, Sindhi cuisine offers a diverse array of dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Here are seven dishes that you must try at least once.
Dal Pakwan
Dal pakwan, a prevalent street in the streets of north India is actually a Sindhi dish. It features a savoury lentil soup or dal, made from lentils like chana or Bengal gram, cumin, turmeric, chilli, hing and other ingredients. On the other hand, it is served with crispy flatbread, also known as pakwan. The earthy dal and crispy bread balance each other and give a new direction to the traditional dal and roti combo.
Koki
Koki, a beloved traditional Sindhi dish, embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region. Made primarily from whole wheat flour, onions, green chillies, cilantro, and spices like cumin and coriander, Koki boasts a hearty texture and aromatic flavour profile. The dough is kneaded with these ingredients, flattened into a thick bread, and then cooked on a griddle until golden brown. With its earthy undertones, a hint of spice, and satisfying chewiness, Koki is a quintessential Sindhi delicacy cherished for its simplicity and depth of flavour.
Sindhi Curry
Sindhi curry or kadhi is a very comforting dish in Sindhi households, and every house has a different flavour for this dish. This authentic and comfortable dish includes a gravy made with tomato, besan and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric and chilli powder. The gravy is important, but the assortment of vegetables, like potatoes, carrots, peas, etc. is more important. Moreover, it includes ingredients like tamarind, jaggery, and even kokum. These ingredients give a slight balance of sweet and sour, which is loved by all.
Bhuga Chawal
Bhuga Chawal, a cherished traditional Sindhi dish, boasts a rich tapestry of flavours and aromas. This fragrant rice dish is a culinary masterpiece, featuring long-grain basmati rice cooked with caramelised onions, fragrant spices like cumin, cloves, and cinnamon, and, sometimes, tender morsels of meat or vegetables. The caramelised onions infuse the rice with a sweet-savoury taste, while the spices add depth and complexity.
Bhein Aloo
Bhein aloo is also a vegetarian Sindhi dish that is quite common in Sindhi households. The star ingredients of this dish are bhein, also known as lotus stem and everyone’s favourite potatoes or aloo. The lotus steam and potatoes are cooked in a gravy made with onions, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, etc. This delicious and nutritious dish is often served with steamed rice or rotis.
Sindhi Biryani
Sindhi Biryani stands as a hallmark of Sindhi cuisine, boasting a fusion of aromatic flavours and vibrant colours. This traditional dish combines fragrant Basmati rice, succulent pieces of marinated meat, often chicken or mutton, and a medley of spices, including cumin, coriander, and saffron. Its distinctive taste is further enhanced by the inclusion of potatoes, tomatoes, and fried onions, imparting a rich and savoury profile. Typically served with raita or yoghurt dip and fresh salad.
Tayri
Tayri is a Sindhi dessert that is loved by many and is often a part of celebrations and festivals. It is made from aromatic basmati rice, ghee, and dried coconut, also known as copra and jaggery. The dish is almost like payasam of kheer, but it is the Sindhi version of it. To add flavour and aromas, you can add cardamom and saunf or fennel powder. To serve it, make sure to garnish with nuts for that crunchy texture.
