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Located right at the centre of the nation, Bhopal is not only the capital of Madhya Pradesh but is also known as one of the greenest cities of India. But that is not all that this city is famous for. Bhopal, which its rich, Nawabi heritage as well as industrial sector spanning centuries is a melting pot of culinary cultures and traditions. From the most regal and resplendent of dishes to the simple yet delicious street foods, the culinary tapestry of Bhopal is loaded with iconic foods you won’t find anywhere else.
Known as the City of Lakes, Bhopal used to be the favourite place to holiday for Mughal queens and princesses during medieval times. During colonial times, the city also saw people from many regions migrating and settling there, and each of these influences is writ large on the most famous and iconic foods of Bhopal. So, on the one hand you will find plenty of Mughlai-origin dishes in Bhopal, while others are quite regular and consumed by thousands every day.
So, if you are visiting the capital of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal, any time soon, make sure you try a wide variety of the city’s most iconic dishes. Wondering where to start? Here are some of the most iconic and famous foods of Bhopal.
Video Credit: YouTube/Sanjeev Kapoor Khazana
Gosht Korma
The clearest presence of Mughlai influences can be found in the Bhopali dish called Gosht Korma. Made with mutton that has been slow-cooked for hours, the gravy of this rich and royal dish boasts of onions, cashews and even poppy seeds. Made completely without the use of turmeric powder and tomatoes, Bhopal’s Gosht Korma is a must-have dish.
Sulaimani Chai
If you love a good cup of chai then this Bhopal-special should not be missed. Begum Sikander Jahan, one of the Nawabs of Bhopal, introduced the city to this Turkish-origin drink and the people embraced it. Prepared with salt and sugar, this salted tea is served out of samovars even at famous tea places in Bhopal like Jamal Bhai Tea Shop at Itawar Chowk.
Poha Jalebi
You might already know that the people of Madhya Pradesh love their Poha and Indore has one of the most famous versions of the dish. But did you know that Bhopal’s Poha Jalebi can compete with Indori Poha any day? The savoury flavours of poha are topped with hot and sweet jalebis, making for an incredible breakfast combination that nobody should miss.
Barfi Rasmalai
If you are in the Jama Masjid area of Bhopal, then you simply cannot miss out on Barfi Rasmalai—though be warned, it is overloaded with sweetness. This unique Bhopali concoction is made with Rasmalai topped with a creamy Rabdi, which is in turn topped with rose syrup, rose water and lots of dry fruits and nuts. The Barfi Rasmalai at Surendra Jain’s stall in Chatori Galli is the best in town according to many.
Paya Soup
Perfect for winters and served as both a street food and restaurant fare in the city, the Paya Soup or Shorba in Bhopal is a must-have. Made with goat legs (as in the hoofs), onions, ginger, garlic and mild spices, this soup is packed with collagen and warmth—which is just what you need during Bhopali evenings. The Paya at Chatori Gali should not be missed while you are in the city.
Video Credit: YouTube/Chef Ranveer Brar
Bhopali Paan
The ultimate signifier of Bhopal’s Nawabi past is the Bhopali Paan. While you may have tasted paan with chuna, supari and kattha all over India, what makes Bhopal’s signature paan special is the compulsory addition of Gulkand, which gives it a unique floral and sweet flavour. Making the perfect Bhopali Paan is considered to be an art in this city so you must savour it while you are there.
Shahi Tukda
Another Mughlai-origin dish that is now so popular that even street food vendors and stall owners in Bhopal sell it, Shahi Tukda is a scrumptious dessert. Simple white bread slices are deep-fried, dunked in sugar syrup and then topped with creamy Rabri, dry fruits, nuts and sometimes even silver leaf or varq. Always pocket-friendly and easily available in Bhopal, Shahi Tukda is an affordable bit of royalty for all.
