10 must-try Awadhi dishes at this Dawat-e-Lucknow food festival in Mumbai

Image for representational purposes only. Photo Courtesy: iStock

Awadhi cuisine, an indigenous part of the city of Nawabs, Lucknow, with its rich history and royal heritage, offers a tantalising array of flavours and aromas that captivate food enthusiasts worldwide.

Presently, Barbeque Nation is hosting a food festival ‘Dawat-e-Lucknow' in Mumbai, featuring a rich variety of mouth-watering Awadhi dishes.

From aromatic biryanis to succulent kebabs, here are 10 must-try dishes that exemplify the culinary excellence of Awadh:

Lucknowi Biryani
A fragrant rice dish cooked with tender meat (usually mutton or chicken), saffron-infused milk, and a blend of spices. Lucknowi biryani is known for its delicate flavours and exquisite presentation, making it a timeless favourite among food connoisseurs.

Galouti Kebab
Originating from the kitchens of Nawabs, Galouti Kebab is a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy made from finely minced meat (traditionally beef or lamb), infused with aromatic spices and tenderisers. Served with ulte tawa ke parathe, it's a true culinary masterpiece.

Also Read: Asian Mango to Casareccia Salad: Give yourself a refreshing boost, try these summer salads at home

Sheermal
A traditional Awadhi bread, Sheermal is enriched with saffron, milk, and ghee, giving it a distinct flavour and soft texture. Often enjoyed with kebabs or curries, this sweet-scented bread is a delightful accompaniment to any meal.

Tunday Kebab
Legend has it that Tunday kebab originated in the 17th century, created by Haji Murad Ali, a one-armed chef known for his culinary prowess. Made from finely minced meat and a secret blend of over 100 spices, these soft and flavorful kebabs are a true testament to Awadhi culinary artistry.

Nihari
A slow-cooked stew made with tender meat, spices, and marrow bones, Nihari is a hearty and flavorful dish that originated in the royal kitchens of Awadh. Served with naan or khameeri roti, it's a beloved comfort food that warms the soul.

Also Read: Love mangoes? Devour them with fresh cream with these special recipes

Kakori Kebab
Named after the town of Kakori near Lucknow, these succulent kebabs are made from finely ground meat (usually lamb or goat) marinated in a blend of spices, raw papaya, and yoghurt. Grilled to perfection, Kakori kebabs are renowned for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and exquisite flavour.

Shahi Tukda
A decadent dessert fit for royalty, Shahi Tukda consists of deep-fried bread slices soaked in sugar syrup, layered with thickened milk (rabri), and garnished with nuts and saffron. Indulgent and irresistible, it's a delightful finale to any Awadhi meal.

Dum Pukht
Literally translating to "slow-cooked," Dum Pukht is a cooking technique that involves sealing meat and spices in a clay pot and slow-cooking it over a low flame. This method of cooking results in tender, flavorful dishes like Dum Pukht Biryani and Dum Pukht Chicken, known for their rich and aromatic flavours.

Also Read: Can't resist a sinful grilled cheese sandwich? Try these innovative recipes to elevate your taste buds

Pasanda
A classic Mughlai dish adopted and perfected by the chefs of Awadh, Pasanda features thinly sliced meat (usually beef or lamb) marinated in a yoghurt-based mixture and cooked in a rich, creamy sauce flavoured with nuts and aromatic spices. Elegant and indulgent, it's a dish fit for royalty.

Malai Gilori
A delicate sweet treat originating from Lucknow, Malai Gilori is made from khoya (reduced milk), sugar, and flavored with saffron and cardamom. Wrapped in a thin layer of edible silver foil (varak) and shaped like a paan (betel leaf), it's a delightful confection that showcases the artistry and attention to detail characteristic of Awadhi sweets.

From aromatic biryanis to indulgent desserts, each dish offers a unique blend of flavours and textures that will leave you craving more.