Pakistani cuisine is deeply influenced by the rich flavours of North Indian Mughlai cuisine, known for its aromatic curries and bold spices. Dishes like biriyani, mutton, and chicken are often the first to come to mind while talking about famous Pakistani food. However, that's just the tip of the iceberg. This South Asian country has many must-try gobsmacking dishes, making it a food lover's paradise.
Here are some of the most popular food in Pakistan for first-time travellers.
Why you must try the food in Pakistan?
Pakistan's popular food is rooted in the centuries-long Mughal empires of the North Indian subcontinent. Turkish, Iranian, and Uzbekistani dishes have also contributed to the country's food culture. The food is full of spices, roast meats, and dried fruits, which create an irresistible aroma wherever you go.
10 famous dishes of Pakistan
If you're short on time but want to try the best of what Pakistan offers, here are 10 iconic dishes you must not miss:
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Nihari
Nihari is one of the most famous foods in Pakistan, and rightly so. This slow-cooked lamb/mutton or beef shank with bone marrow is well-known for its rich flavours. Freshly ground whole spices underscore the region's expertise in meat cuisine. A nihari dish is often paired with khameeri roti (yeast bread), making it an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.
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Chapli Kebab
While you may have tried various kebabs around the world, nothing comes close to the crispy, juicy, and succulent chapli kebab of Peshawari vendors. This juicy kebab infuses the pallet with flavours of tenderly cooked minced beef blended with onions, tomatoes, green chillies, pomegranate seeds, lemon juice, and fresh spices.
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Biryani
Biryani is a beloved dish and is considered one of the most famous dishes of Pakistan. Often served during celebrations like Eid-l-Fitr and weddings, this spiced rice dish is made with chicken, mutton, or beef, depending on regional preferences, and features a blend of aromatic spices and a flavourful kick. Karachi biryani, for instance, is known for being particularly spicy.
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Sajji
Whole chicken or lamb, marinated with salt, skewered, and roasted for the perfect infusion of flavours, describes Sajji, a traditional dish from Balochistan. The meat is roasted on an open charcoal flame and has a smoky, enticing aroma, often served with naan or rice.
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Haleem
Although it looks simple, haleem is a slow-cooked meat dish that bombards you with fresh lentils, wheat, barley, and beef flavours. It is a delightful experience for food lovers and is considered one of the most popular food in Pakistan, often enjoyed during Ramadan.
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Peshwari naan
Although naan is common worldwide, Peshwari naan is a proud Pakistani speciality. This sweet nan, garnished with desiccated coconut, raisins and almonds, is a traditional breakfast choice in several Pakistani households.
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Sheer khurma
A popular dessert in Pakistan, Sheer Khurma is a creamy and rich traditional sweet that has a rose-infused milk base decorated with flowery saffron and sweet dates.
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Chana chaat
There are stories that Shahjahan devised Chana Chaat, one of Pakistan'sPakistan's most popular foods today. It is a tangy, flavourful snack made of chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and spices, topped with yoghurt, spicy chutneys, and chaat masala.
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Halwa puri
Another traditional breakfast in Pakistan comprises fried puris served with a sweet ghee-infused halwa, along withchickpea curry (chole) and mango pickle on the side.
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Falooda
Falooda, an Indo-Persian dessert, is a popular summer drink in Pakistan and comprises layers of vermicelli cooked in milk, basil seeds, and nuts. It is traditionally served cold in a tall glass topped with vanilla ice cream and rose syrup.
Importance of travel insurance
While trying different cuisines is one of the joys of travelling, you cannot ignore unforeseen circumstances like lost luggage, theft, and sudden medical emergencies that can cause a major hiccup in your journey. Travel insurance is a great way to ensure protection in such cases as it provides financial coverage so that you solely focus on the fun part of travelling. While looking for insurance options, opt for single trip travel insurance that covers personal belongings and international health care for a limited period.
FAQs
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Which is the most popular food in Pakistan?
The most famous food in Pakistan includes Nihari, shami kebabs, and biryani.
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Which is the national food of Pakistan?
Nihari is widely regarded as the national dish of Pakistan.
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Which cuisine defines the Pakistani food culture?
North Indian, Mugulai, and Persian cuisines define Pakistani food culture.
Conclusion
Tasting Pakistani cuisine is one way to understand the region's rich cultural heritage better. From flavourful biryanis to mouthwatering kebabs and decadent desserts, it is a treat for your taste buds. Have a good time exploring the food, and do not forget the importance of insurance for a smooth and stress-free vacation.
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