Lucknow Cuisine: 6 Types Of Breads To Relish In The "City Of Nawabs" 

Lucknow is a city in Uttar Pradesh that is often referred to as the "city of Nawabs". The place is known for its rich history, culture, and culinary heritage. The traditional dishes of the city have been passed down for generations and have a lot to offer foodies who visit Lucknow. Tunday kebabs, basket chaat, kakori kebab, kulfi falooda, Awadhi biryani, and sheer korma are some popular delicacies of the city.

We all know Lucknow offers an endless variety of kebabs, but did you know they also have an impressive range of breads that are known to have a delectable aroma and taste? Prepared with a blend of traditional ingredients and techniques, they are unique in their own way. Be it kheeree gosht, Nargisi kofta, or shahi paneer, Lucknowi gravies are a delicious and integral part of Awadhi cuisine. They are known for their rich flavours, complex spices, and velvety texture. Lucknowi gravies are typically made with meat, poultry, or vegetables, and they are great pairings for the varieties of bread that they have on offer.

Sheermal

This is a classic delight from Lucknow that can be found across the city, from street stalls to restaurants. Made with maida, ghee, milk, sugar, nuts, and saffron, sheermal has a soft and fluffy texture and is slightly orange in colour. Prepared in a tandoor, it is smeared with ghee and goes well with any rich curry, kebabs, or tea.

Taftan Naan

This is a crispy and thin variant of naan that is locally enjoyed with a hot cup of chai. The outer layer of taftan naan is a little flakier, and the interior is very soft. Made with refined flour, milk, yoghurt, and eggs, it is relatively lighter than the other varieties. Taftan naan is mostly flavoured with cardamom or poppy seeds and can also be served with curd.

Gau Zabaan

This bread is named "gau zabaan," but don’t be scared. It is due to its shape, which is similar to a cow’s tongue. This soft, sweet, and fluffy bread is made with refined flour and yeast. Gau zabaan is best paired with a bowl of spicy curry or any flavourful variety of Lucknowi kebabs.

Khamiri Roti

This is another delicious variety of bread that is very popular in Lucknow. The term khamiri means yeast, which is an essential ingredient for preparing this roti. Khamiri roti is made with wheat flour, yoghurt, and cottage cheese. It has a soft and spongy texture and is perfect to enjoy at dinner with keema masala, kebab, or any Mughlai curry.

Bakarkhani

Bakarkhani is very similar to sheermal but is comparatively bigger in size. Made with maida, sugar, ghee, and milk, this flatbread is flavoured with cardamom and saffron. Bakarkhani is traditionally baked in an oven and is a popular choice during festivals like Eid. This sweet bread can be enjoyed with spicy mutton, chicken gravy, or any flavourful curry. 

Doorbeeni Naan

Doorbeeni naan is a unique type of naan that is prepared in the shape of a miniature-sized telescope. Also referred to as the Desi version of a doughnut, it tastes absolutely delicious. Made with all-purpose flour, baking soda, sugar, and butter, it goes well with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries.