Famous Food of Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh known for its breathtaking landscapes, serene environment, adventures also offers a delicious journey where you'll get to taste the savory famous food of the region. The savory flavor of rich and diverse cuisines reflects the vibrant culture and traditions of the region as evident in the age old recipe passed down from generations after generations. From flavorful  and comforting delicacies like Siddu (steamed buns) to mouth watering sweet dishes like Mittha Bhat (dessert), there are many dishes to try. Through this blog post let's go on a savory journey and explore the famous food of Himachal Pradesh.

Dham-The flavorful delicacy of Himachal

1. Dham- The Traditonal Festive Feast

• Dham in Himachal Pradesh is a traditional feast that people enjoy during vibrant festivals and  various celebrations in the region. Popular varieties of Dham include Kangri Dham and Mandi Dham.
• This famous delicacy is prepared by Botis (known as traditional chefs) and is served on Pattals (plates made with leaves). Having this dish served this way showcases the rich cultural and traditional values that many tourists will find unique and appealing.
• Dham includes rice, dal, Rajma, curd, Kadi cooked in such a way that its aroma can make any one mouth water in an instant, you can call it a chef's kiss. This delicacy is so full of flavors and aroma like no other that for foodies like me just writing about it does the trick! lol. 

2. Siddu- A Popular Himachali Bread

• Siddu is one of the most famous food of Himachal Pradesh also known as steamed wheat bread that contain spicy fillings of walnuts or pulses which is served with warm ghee and various chutneys as suits the taste buds.
• This delicious food is especially famous in Shimla, Kullu and Mandi. So if you are planning to visit these famous places do not forget to try Siddu! Consider it one of the most popular dish that reflects the culture of Himachali folks.
• Siddu is usually eaten during winters as it is considered as one of the best warm and comforting food in Himachal. Imagine enjoying this savory dish and admiring the snow capped peaks in midst of cold dipping temperature. A complete bliss, if you ask me.

Warm and comforting Siddu dish

3. Babru- A Himachali style Kachori

• Babru is deep fried snack made with urad dal filling which is enjoyed with tamarind chutney. People who enjoy spicy and crispy food will surely love this delicacy. 
• Babru is extremely popular in Mandi and Kangra especially during festive occasions and cultural celebrations or family gathering.

4. Tudkiya Bhath- The Himachali Pulao

• Tudkiya Bhath is a wholesome and delicious traditional Himachali rice dish prepared with rice, lentils, potatoes aromatic spices and yogurt that is perfect for any occasion. 
• The dish is cooked with lentils, tomatoes, whole spices like clove, yogurt, cardamom and bay leaves which gives it unique aroma as compared to regular Pulao.
• If you want to try a traditional Himachali rice dish, you must try Tudkiya Bhath as the spices will leave your taste buds tingling. Also if you want to take this dish a few notches up, squeeze some lemon for a zesty flavor and serve it with curd and radish salad.

5. Madra- A Himachali Delicacy

• Madra , one of the famous food of Himachal Pradesh is a signature traditional dish of Chamba and Kangra regions.
• The ingredients used in this delicacy include chickpeas (Kabuli Chana), yogurt, spices like clove, cinnamon and cardamom.
• Madra is one of the essential dishes served in Himachali Dham known for its thick spicy gravy filled with delicious spices served with hot steamy fluffy rice.

Spicy and flavorful Madra.

6. Bhey- A Spicy Lotus Stem Curry

• Considered as one of the most unique Himachali cuisine, Bhey is prepared by slicing Lotus stems and cooked with onion, garlic, gram flour and local spices, also famous for its nutritional values.
• For people who love vegetarian Himachali food, you must try this dish when visiting Himachal Pradesh.
• Bhey is quite popular in rural areas of the region, those travelers who love to visit offbeat destinations must try this!

7. Mittha- A sweet Himachali dish

• Mittha is a traditional Himachali cuisine that is enjoyed throughout the region during special and festive occasions also considered as an one of the must have dessert.
• This sweet dish is made with boondi, dry fruits like cashews, raisins and almonds, sugar, saffron, fennel seeds and basmati rice that gives it flavorful aroma.
• Mittha is one of my favorite sweet dish that I recommend everyone to try because Himachali food is incomplete without this extremely delicious dessert!  

Mouth watering Mittha sweet Dish 

Conclusion

 Himachal Pradesh is the most diverse state, be it in terms of biodiversity, lush landscapes or in terms of delicious food. Both nature lovers and foodies alike will love to travel this serene state known as Himachal. While enjoying the mighty mountains laden with snow and greenery you can enjoy your favorite Himachali food, there is no shortage of local dhabas, restaurants. Himachal also hosts various events like International Summer Festival held in Shimla where you can enjoy these delicacies which is quite famous among tourists. Lot of vibrant festivals and also held in Himachal where you'll not only get to experience traditional and cultural enrichment but also get to try various mouth watering dishes served that matches the festive spirit of the region. Don't forget to leave comments if you liked reading my blog.