Traditional Garhwali & Kumaoni Food You Should Definitely Try – A Taste of Uttarakhand

 

Uttarakhand is not just about snow-capped peaks, spiritual temples, and scenic treks — it’s also a land of rich traditional cuisine! Divided into Garhwal and Kumaon, this Himalayan state boasts two distinct food cultures that are simple, wholesome, and full of earthy flavors.


Let’s take a flavorful journey into the traditional Garhwali and Kumaoni dishes that every food lover must try when in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand! 🌿


 🥘 What Makes Uttarakhandi Cuisine Special?


* Made from locally grown grains, lentils, and vegetables

* Uses minimal oil & spices – focuses on natural taste

* Rich in nutrition, ideal for the cold mountain climate

* Cooked over wood fires and often served with love in brass or copper plates



 🌄 **Garhwali Dishes You Shouldn't Miss


1. Phaanu

A thick and rich lentil curry made from mixed Gahat (horse gram) or Arhar dal, soaked overnight and slow-cooked. Best eaten with rice.

🔸 Specialty: High protein, warming, and perfect for winter.




2. Kafuli

A green leafy curry made with palak (spinach), fenugreek, or local greens like lai. Cooked with rice paste and curd, served with steamed rice.

🌿 Health Tip: This is a superfood for digestion and immunity!




3. Chainsoo

A black gram (urad dal) curry roasted and ground before cooking. It has a deep, earthy flavor and is often paired with rice or mandua (ragi) roti.

🔥 Flavor: Smoky, rich, and packed with protein.



4. Aloo Ke Gutke

Spicy dry-fried potatoes with mustard seeds, red chilies, and coriander. A staple at every Garhwali home and local dhaba.

🥔 Perfect With: Bhang ki chutney and puri or roti.



 5. Til Ki Chutney (Sesame Chutney)

A tangy and nutty paste made of roasted sesame seeds, garlic, and lemon juice. Adds punch to any Garhwali meal.



 🌄 Kumaoni Dishes You Must Try


1. Bhatt Ki Churkani

Made from black soybeans (*Bhatt dal*), this dish is tempered with local spices and ghee. Served hot with steamed rice.

🌱 Powerful Protein Source for mountain people.



 2. Dubuk

A warm, thick dal-based stew usually made from Gahat or Bhatt, slowly cooked and eaten with rice during winters.

🍲 Texture: Soft, comforting, and earthy.



 3. Aloo Thechwani

Boiled potatoes are crushed and cooked with local spices and radish. This simple yet spicy curry is a Kumaoni household favorite.

🥄 Meaning: "Thechna" means to crush in Kumaoni.




 4. Ras

A nutritious mix of several lentils cooked together with rice water and spices. Slow-cooked and served hot.


🥘 Benefits : Rich in iron, fiber, and warmth.



5. Singori


A traditional sweet wrapped in maalu leaves, made from khoya (reduced milk) and flavored with cardamom.


🍬 Must-try dessert from Almora region!



🧂 Bonus: Bhang Ki Chutney – The Famous Hemp Seed Chutney


A tangy, spicy chutney made from roasted bhang (hemp) seeds, green chilies, and garlic. It’s served with every meal and adds a zesty Himalayan kick!



 🌿 Final Words


Uttarakhandi cuisine may be simple in preparation, but it is rich in culture, nutrition, and taste. Whether you are trekking in Garhwal or enjoying a village stay in Kumaon, don’t 

miss out on these traditional dishes that truly represent the soul of the hills.

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