Kashmir, whether in summer or winter, offers breathtaking scenery. The snow-clad mountains and frozen lakes create a mesmerizing sight. What adds to the experience is the opportunity to savor delicious street food dishes. From Harissa to masale tsot, nader monje, and Tujje, there’s a diverse range of snacks to relish. Each delicacy boasts its own distinct flavor and texture, suitable for any time of the day. When visiting Kashmir during the winter, it’s a must to indulge in these delectable dishes to not only warm up your body but also soothe your soul. So, whether you’re admiring the snowy landscapes or exploring the bustling streets, be sure to treat yourself to the culinary delights of Kashmir’s street food scene.
Masale Tsote
Kashmir, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and culinary delights, presents a diverse array of street foods that tantalize the taste buds and offer a glimpse into the region’s vibrant food culture. Among these gastronomic treasures, Masale Tsot stands out as a quintessential example of Kashmiri street food. This traditional delicacy features lavaas bread rolls brimming with piping hot mashed chickpeas and adorned with a zesty chutney crafted from radish, onion, and an array of spices. The amalgamation of flavors and textures in Masale Tsot makes it an irresistible choice for those seeking a hearty andflavorsome snack on the go.
Nader Monje
Another culinary gem that graces the streets of Kashmir is Nader Monje, also known as Kammal Kakkdi. This delicacy showcases lotus stems sliced into thin, fry-like shapes, dipped in a gram flour batter, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. Enhanced with a sprinkling of paprika and salt, Nader Monje entices with its addictive crunch, leaving diners craving for more with every bite
Halwe Paraath
For those with a sweet tooth, Halwe Paraath emerges as a timeless favorite among Kashmir’s street food offerings. This beloved treat, often found outside shrines, comprises semolina flour-based Halwa paired with wheat flour-based Paraath. The Paraath, notable for its substantial size of 2-3 feet in diameter, is fried to golden perfection before being served alongside the decadent Halwa. The combination of textures and flavors in Halwe Paraath creates a delectable harmony that has delighted generations of Kashmiri food enthusiasts.
Harissa
As winter blankets the landscape with its icy embrace, Harissa emerges as a cherished culinary tradition in Kashmir. This hearty dish features mutton slow-cooked with an assortment of spices and oil until it transforms into a thick, aromatic paste. Best enjoyed with Kashmiri bread, such as the renowned “girda,” Harissa offers a comforting respite from the cold and serves as a testament to Kashmir’s culinary ingenuity.
Tujje
Meanwhile, a stroll along the picturesque Dal Lake presents an opportunity to savor Tujje, a local specialty that captivates the senses with its robust flavors. Also known as seek-tujje or Tikka, this delicacy comprises small pieces of beef or mutton marinated in an array of fresh spices, left to marinate for hours to allow the flavors to meld. Cooked over hot red embers using skewers, Tujje is served alongside lavassa, a traditional Kashmiri bread, and an assortment of chutneys, offering a symphony of tastes that encapsulate the essence of Kashmiri cuisine.
Tille Karre
Searching for a delightful and satisfying snack to appease your cravings? Look no further than Tille Karre! This Kashmiri specialty is crafted from dried green peas coated in gram flour and deep-fried to a glorious golden brown. Offering a perfect blend of crunchiness and flavor, Tille Karre is an ideal choice for those seeking a quick and delicious treat. Adorned with a sprinkle of paprika and salt, each bite promises a burst of savory goodness that will leave you wanting more.
Laayi and Khand Gazzir
For those with a sweet tooth, Laayi and Khand Gazzir emerge as beloved indulgences in Kashmir’s culinary landscape. Laayi, a ubiquitous sight on the streets of Kashmir, entices with its simplicity and sweetness. Crafted from puffed rice, sugar, and a hint of color for visual appeal, Laayi melts in your mouth, leaving behind a delightful sweetness that lingers on the palate.
Laale Shangram
Meanwhile, Laale Shangram beckons with its enticing blend of textures and flavors. This delectable treat, comprising semolina, flour, and sugar, is deep-fried in ghee to achieve a golden hue. Best enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or Kashmiri kehwa, Laale Shangram delights with its creamy interior and crisp exterior, offering a symphony of sugary goodness with every bite.
Beasrakh
Venturing further into the realm of Kashmiri sweets, one encounters the tantalizing Beasrakh. A veritable explosion of flavor, Beasrakh combines flour, ghee, and sugar syrup with an array of dry fruits such as almonds, cashews, and raisins. This unique confectionary masterpiece promises to titillate the taste buds and leave a lasting impression with its harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Kenke Masal
On the savory front, Kenke Masal reigns supreme as a popular street food choice in Kashmir, renowned for its energy-boosting properties and nutritional benefits. This wholesome snack is crafted by simmering black gram beans until tender, then seasoning them with salt and spices before serving them piping hot in paper cones. Bursting with flavor and brimming with nutrients, Kenke Masal satisfies hunger pangs while providing a much-needed energy boost, making it a preferred option for street food enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.
This snack is not only a high energy booster, but also packed with nutrients that make it a popular choice for street food snackers and dieters alike.
