Picture yourself amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Garhwal region in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lush green hills, snow-capped mountains, and gushing rivers, you embark on a culinary journey that is as rich and diverse as the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Welcome to the world of Garhwali cuisine – a delightful fusion of flavors, traditions, and culture!!!!
Garhwali cuisine is known for its simplicity and use of locally sourced ingredients from the Garhwal region in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
Here’s a list of Garhwali dishes that you should try
Arsa : A sweet delicacy made from rice flour, jaggery, and ghee. It is deep-fried to create a crispy texture.
Gahat Ki Daal : Horse gram lentils are used to make this nutritious and protein-rich dish, often served with rice.
Lauki Kofta : These are fritters made from bottle gourd and gram flour and then cooked in flavourful curry.
Chainsoo : A popular Garhwali dal preparation made from black gram lentils, chainsoo is known for its robust flavors. The lentils are roasted and ground into a fine powder, which is then cooked with spices to create a thick, flavorful gravy. Served with rice or chapatis, it’s a Garhwali delight.
Aloo Ke Gutke : A simple yet flavorsome dish, aloo ke gutke features boiled potatoes tossed with a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. The dish is usually pan-fried until the potatoes turn crisp, offering a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Kafuli Saag : A nutritious green stew, kafuli is prepared using leafy greens such as spinach or fenugreek, seasoned with garlic, ginger, and a medley of spices. This wholesome dish is not only rich in taste but also packs a punch with its health benefits.
Phaanu : A nutritious and hearty dish made from a mixture of lentils like gahat (horse gram) or urad (black gram), soaked overnight and then ground into a coarse paste. It is usually served with steamed rice.
Jhangora ki Kheer : Jhangora, also known as barnyard millet, is the star ingredient of this delectable dessert. Cooked with milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, this creamy kheer is a delightful way to end a Garhwali meal.
Baadi : A staple food of the region, baadi is a round, flatbread made from fermented black soybean paste mixed with wheat flour. It is typically served with gahat (horse gram) soup and makes for a nutritious and filling meal.
Kandalee Ka Saag : A flavorful dish made with yam leaves, kandalee ka saag is cooked with mustard oil and an assortment of spices. This nutritious green preparation is a traditional favorite among Garhwali households.
Jholi : Jholi is a light curry made with mixed lentils and vegetables. It is seasoned with spices and often garnished with fresh coriander leaves, adding a burst of flavor to this comforting dish.
Swala : Swala or the Sewala is a stuffed deep-fried bread. The most common stuffing seems to be Toor dal, while other lentils can also be used.
Khajur / Rotana: It is a kind of bite-size fried cookie made with whole wheat flour, milk, desi ghee, fennel seeds, semolina(suji), and jaggery
Thechwani : A spicy and tangy preparation, thechwani is made with pounded potatoes or radish cooked with a mix of Himalayan spices. It’s a flavorsome dish that pairs well with steamed rice or bread.
Bhang ki Chutney : Prepared with roasted Bhang seeds (Hemp Seeds), cumin seeds (Sauf) & garlic leaves mixed with Lemon juice. The fresh aroma and the tangy tamarind taste can stay on your tongue for quite a long time
Kachmauli : Kachmauli is a traditional Garhwali dish made with chunks of lamb or goat meat cooked in a spicy gravy. The flavorsome curry is a favorite among meat lovers in the region.
Gaderi Ki Sabzi : This unique Garhwali dish features a local wild vegetable called gaderi, cooked with spices and lentils. The result is a nutritious and flavorful curry with a distinct taste.
Bedu Pakoras : Bedu pakoras are fritters made from the flowers of the Bichhu Ghas plant. The flowers are dipped in gram flour batter, deep-fried, and served as a crispy snack with chutney.
Singori : Singori is a popular sweet treat made with khoya (milk solids) and wrapped in malu (edible tree leaves). This delightful dessert is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Dubuk : Dubuk is a rustic dish featuring roasted buckwheat flour cooked with ghee and jaggery. This warming sweet treat is often enjoyed during the winter months, providing energy and warmth to combat the chilly Garhwali weather.
Garhwali food is a delightful culinary experience that encapsulates the essence of the region. Rich in flavors and tradition, Garhwali cuisine reflects the bountiful natural resources of the Himalayan foothills. The use of locally sourced ingredients, herbs, and spices not only tantalizes taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits where each bite takes you on a cultural journey. Savoring Garhwali food is an invitation to relish the heritage and hospitality of this enchanting region.
