Jammu & Kashmir is a paradise for nature lovers and a haven for food enthusiasts. From aromatic spices to rich flavours, the cuisine of Jammu & Kashmir is a delightful blend of various influences, making it a culinary experience like no other. Let's journey through this beautiful region's popular cuisine and dishes.

Popular Cuisines in Jammu & Kashmir

• Kashmiri Cuisine: Influenced by Mughal and Persian culinary traditions, Kashmiri cuisine is known for its rich flavours and aromatic spices. Using saffron, dry fruits, and yoghurt is typical in dishes.
• Dogra Cuisine: Hailing from the Jammu region, Dogra cuisine is characterised by its hearty and flavorful dishes. Staples include meats like mutton and chicken cooked in spices and rice-based dishes like Rajma Chawal and Ambal.
• Wazwan Cuisine: Unique to Kashmiri Muslim communities, Wazwan cuisine is famous for its elaborate multi-course meals served during weddings and other special occasions. The emphasis on slow cooking methods results in tender meat that melts in your mouth.
• Ladakhi Cuisine: Influenced by Tibetan and Central Asian culinary traditions, Ladakhi cuisine includes dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (dumplings), and Chhurpi (fermented cheese). The cuisine reflects the rugged terrain and nomadic lifestyle of the region.

Popular Dishes in Jammu & Kashmir

• Rogan Josh: A flavourful lamb dish cooked in a rich gravy infused with aromatic spices like Kashmiri red chilli, ginger, and fennel. The slow cooking allows the meat to absorb all the flavours, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Yakhni: A traditional yoghurt-based gravy typically prepared with either chicken or mutton, seasoned with cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon. It is known for its delicate flavours and creamy texture.
• Kashmiri Pulao: A fragrant rice dish cooked with various dried fruits, nuts, and whole spices like cinnamon and cloves, giving it a sweet and savoury flavour profile. It is often served as a special dish during festivals.
• Gushtaba: Soft meatballs made from minced mutton, cooked in a creamy yoghurt-based gravy flavoured with spices like cinnamon and bay leaves. This royal food of Jammu & Kashmir is usually reserved for special occasions.
• Haakh: A popular Kashmiri green leafy vegetable dish, usually prepared with collard greens or spinach, seasoned with mustard oil and flavoured with garlic and red chilli flakes.