Uttarakhand Pahari Cuisine
Uttarakhand’s Pahari cuisine is a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and wholesome nutrition, deeply rooted in the region’s mountainous terrain. It showcases a rich variety of lentil-based dishes, hearty grains like mandua and jhangora, and unique vegetables like stinging nettle and fern. Prepared with simple yet aromatic spices, this cuisine is a testament to the pahadi way of life, emphasizing organically grown ingredients. A true gastronomic experience, it’s a must-try for anyone visiting this serene region.
Pahari Cuisine
Aloo ke Gutke
A traditional breakfast dish in Uttarakhand, Aloo ke Gutke is prepared with diced potatoes cooked in a mix of dry roasted spices. Often enjoyed with puri and cucumber raita, it’s a festive favorite.
Bal Mithai
A signature sweet from Uttarakhand, Bal Mithai is made of khoya coated in white sugar balls. Known for its chocolate-like appearance, it’s especially famous in Almora, where its popularity among children earned it its name.
Bhang ki Chutney
A tangy chutney from Uttarakhand, Bhang ki Chutney is made by grinding roasted hemp seeds with cumin, garlic leaves, and tamarind or lemon juice. This side dish is refreshing and aids digestion, especially in summer.
Chachinda
Chachinda is a unique dish where barnyard millet is simmered in sour buttermilk and served with a spicy chutney. The millet’s slight tanginess, combined with the chutney’s heat, creates a delightful balance of flavors.
Chainsoo
Chainsoo is a rich Garhwali dish made with roasted black lentils (Urad dal) ground into a paste and slow-cooked in an iron pot. Its earthy flavor and aromatic spices make it a wholesome and hearty meal.
Gahat Badi
Gahat Badi is a delicious snack made from local Gahat (Kulath) lentil paste, deep-fried into small balls. These crispy badis are often used in other gravies, adding texture and flavor to the dish.
Jhangore ki Kheer
A traditional dessert from Uttarakhand, Jhangore ki Kheer is made with barnyard millet cooked in milk and sugar. This creamy, sweet dish is garnished with cashews and raisins, making it a festive treat.
Kandali ka Saag
Kandali ka Saag, also known as bicchu ghas, is made from stinging nettle leaves. High in nutrition, this wild grass dish is an acquired taste and requires careful preparation due to its itchy nature.
Kumaoni Raita
Kumaoni Raita is a refreshing side dish made with grated cucumber, mustard seeds, turmeric, green chilies, and coriander mixed into beaten curd. This raita adds a cooling touch to any Uttarakhandi meal.
Lesu
Lesu is a traditional roti made by stuffing finger millet (Madua) dough into wheat flour balls, then rolling and baking them. Common in both Kumaon and Garhwal, it’s served with ghee and chutney.
Lindge ki Sabzi
Lindge ki Sabzi is made from the nutritious fern lindga, found on riverbanks. Rich in vitamins and minerals, this vegetable is used in curries and pickles, and it’s known for its health benefits.
Mandua Ki Roti
Mandua Ki Roti is a staple in Uttarakhand, especially during winter. Made from finger millet flour, these chapattis are nutritious and slightly coarse, perfect for pairing with local dishes.
Rotna
Rotna is a traditional dessert from Uttarakhand, made with wheat flour and jaggery. This sweet dish, often prepared during festivals and weddings, is rich in flavor and steeped in cultural significance.
Saunle
Saunle are small, deep-fried snacks filled with spicy mashed potatoes. Traditionally made for special occasions, these crispy delights are a must-try for their perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Singodi
Singodi is a sweet delicacy from Uttarakhand, made with khoya, sugar, and grated coconut, and wrapped in molu leaves. This dessert, especially famous in Almora, is aromatic, flavorful, and unique.
Sisunak Saag
Sisunak Saag, or stinging nettle curry, is a traditional Kumaoni dish. The leaves are boiled, ground, and cooked with ghee and tomatoes. It’s a flavorful, nutritious dish that requires careful handling.
Thichwani
Thichwani is a rustic dish from Uttarakhand, made with crushed radish and potatoes cooked with onions and tomatoes. This hearty, comforting meal is full of earthy flavors and traditional charm.
Til ki Chutney
Til ki Chutney is a flavorful side dish made from roasted sesame seeds ground into a paste with green chilies, sugar, and salt. This sweet-spicy chutney is a versatile accompaniment to many Uttarakhandi meals.
Urad Dal ke Pakore
Urad Dal ke Pakore are crispy, golden fritters made from spiced urad dal paste, deep-fried to perfection. These popular snacks are enjoyed with tea or as a breakfast item across Uttarakhand.