Azad Jammu and Kashmir, often simply referred to as Azad Kashmir, is a region of unparalleled natural beauty, nestled between the majestic Himalayas and lush green valleys. While its breathtaking landscapes attract countless tourists each year, one of the region’s most underrated treasures is its rich and diverse culinary heritage. The traditional food of Azad Kashmir is a delicious blend of hearty flavors, age-old techniques, and cultural influences passed down through generations.
If you ever find yourself in this scenic region, here are some traditional Kashmiri dishes you must try.
1. Gushtaba – The Royal Dish
Gushtaba is often considered the crown jewel of Kashmiri cuisine. This dish features finely minced mutton meatballs cooked in a rich and creamy yogurt-based gravy. Traditionally, it is served at the end of a lavish Kashmiri feast, symbolizing a grand finale.
The meat for Gushtaba is pounded with wooden hammers until it becomes a paste-like consistency, then mixed with spices and cooked in a yogurt sauce that has been slowly simmered to develop a tangy and velvety texture. This dish is reserved for special occasions and is a must-try if you want to experience the royalty of Kashmiri cooking.
2. Rogan Josh – A Spiced Delight
Although commonly associated with Indian Kashmiri cuisine, Rogan Josh is just as beloved in Azad Kashmir. This aromatic lamb curry is made with tender chunks of meat, cooked in a gravy enriched with yogurt, garlic, and a blend of local spices such as fennel, ginger, and Kashmiri red chilies.
Rogan Josh is known for its deep red color, which comes not from chilies but from a special kind of red pepper and the use of Kashmiri saffron. It’s typically enjoyed with naan or plain rice and makes for a hearty and flavorful meal.
3. Dum Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with a Kashmiri Twist
Dum Aloo is a beloved vegetarian dish across the region. Baby potatoes are deep-fried and then simmered in a rich tomato and yogurt-based gravy, flavored with a mix of Kashmiri spices like fennel, dry ginger, and cardamom.
What makes Dum Aloo unique in Azad Kashmir is the cooking technique. The dish is prepared over low heat in a sealed pot (known as “dum” cooking), which allows the flavors to fully infuse into the potatoes, creating a wonderfully aromatic and spicy dish.
4. Hareesa – The Winter Comfort Food
A traditional winter dish, Hareesa is made from wheat, rice, and finely minced meat, typically chicken or mutton. The mixture is slowly cooked and stirred over low heat until it forms a thick, porridge-like consistency.
Often enjoyed with hot naan or buttered bread, Hareesa is highly nutritious and warming, making it an ideal food for the chilly winters of Azad Kashmir. Locals often top it with fried onions and ghee for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Saag – Leafy Greens Done Right
Saag is a staple dish in many parts of Kashmir. It’s made from a mix of leafy greens such as spinach, mustard greens, and bathua, slowly cooked down and seasoned with green chilies, garlic, and mustard oil.
Though simple in ingredients, saag captures the earthy essence of the Kashmiri countryside. It’s best served with maize bread (makki ki roti) and a dollop of white butter, making it a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option.
6. Tabaq Maas – Fried Lamb Ribs
This unique Kashmiri delicacy involves lamb ribs that are first boiled with spices and then shallow-fried until crisp and golden. Tabaq Maas is often part of festive occasions and is enjoyed for its flavorful crust and tender interior.
Traditionally served as an appetizer in Kashmiri feasts (called Wazwan), this dish showcases the skillful balance between spices and textures that defines Kashmiri cooking.
7. Kashmiri Pulao – A Sweet and Savory Rice Dish
Unlike the spicy biryanis of other South Asian cuisines, Kashmiri Pulao is mildly spiced and often includes a variety of nuts and dried fruits like raisins, almonds, and cashews. Saffron and cinnamon add a subtle warmth and aroma to the dish.
Kashmiri Pulao is usually served with raita or curry and is a popular choice for both festive meals and everyday dinners in Azad Kashmir. It beautifully captures the Kashmiri love for integrating sweet and savory elements.
8. Noon Chai – The Iconic Pink Tea
No trip to Azad Kashmir is complete without sipping on a hot cup of Noon Chai, also known as “Sheer Chai.” This salty pink tea is made with green tea leaves, milk, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. The distinct pink color comes from a chemical reaction between the baking soda and tea leaves.
Noon Chai is often served with traditional bread such as kulcha or baqarkhani and is typically enjoyed during breakfast or evening gatherings. Its unique taste may surprise you at first, but it’s an acquired flavor that many come to love.
9. Chapli Kebab – A Spiced Minced Meat Patty
Originally from the neighboring Pashtun regions, Chapli Kebabs have found a beloved place in Azad Kashmiri cuisine. These flat, round patties are made from spiced minced meat (usually beef or mutton) and are fried to a crispy golden finish.
Often served with naan, yogurt chutney, and fresh onions, Chapli Kebabs are a favorite street food and a must-try for meat lovers.
10. Kahwa – The Aromatic Green Tea
Kahwa is a traditional green tea made with saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon, often topped with crushed almonds. It’s not just a beverage, but a part of Kashmiri hospitality. A cup of steaming Kahwa is typically offered to guests and is a symbol of warmth and welcome.
Served in a traditional samovar (a metal teapot), Kahwa is perfect after a meal or during cold evenings, offering both comfort and a boost in digestion.
Conclusion
The traditional food of Azad Kashmir is more than just sustenance — it’s a rich expression of the region’s history, geography, and culture. From aromatic curries and hearty meats to unique teas and comforting vegetarian dishes, Azad Kashmir’s cuisine has something to satisfy every palate.
Exploring the food of this beautiful region not only introduces you to new and exciting flavors but also offers a glimpse into the lives and traditions of its people. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of Gushtaba at a family gathering or sipping Noon Chai in a hillside village, the culinary delights of Azad Kashmir are sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, the next time you travel through Azad Kashmir or visit a Kashmiri restaurant, make sure to savor these traditional dishes — they are as unforgettable as the mountains they come from.
