Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is famous for its scenery, history, and local culture. Personified by Ruskin Bond in most of his stories, this popular tourist destination has gained immense impetus quite lately due to rapid urbanization. Due to ongoing modernization, the city is witnessing an increased inflow of tourists from all around.
As a tourist, you will be indeed mesmerized by the surrounding beauty and landscape of the region. This is the reason why top officials of the British Era made Dehradun their hotspot for unwinding. Given its British and local influence, the culinary scene of Dehradun is equally tantalizing and popular. Let us help you unravel the famous food in Dehradun that you must not miss out on your next trip.
What are the Dehradun Famous Food Items?
From quintessential North Indian delicacies to authentic Tibetan cuisine, the food in Dehradun is as inviting as its local terrains. The local cuisine of Uttarakhand offers a highly tempting combination of piquant spices with aromatic flavors of the divine dishes here.
As you have a joyful trip to this famous hill station in Uttarakhand, you will be astounded by the aromatic flavors of the famous food items here. Some of the must-have dishes in Dehradun are:
1. Kafuli
Get a taste of the popular and delicious blend of healthy, green leafy veggies in the form of a local dish named Kafuli. It is one of the most sought-after dishes within the realm of the traditional Pahadi cuisine. In Dehradun, it is usually offered to guests and is adored by the Pahadi inhabitants of the region.
The dish features a blend of different types of green leafy veggies to serve as immensely delicious and nutritious at the same time. Some of the core ingredients used in the preparation of this nutrition-filled recipe are spinach and fenugreek leaves. These ingredients are mixed together and cooked in a traditional pot gradually. Eventually, an array of spices and salt follow the preparation of the dish. The dish is typically served with a gravy prepared out of a mix of water and rice.
2. Katlambe
It is a famous local dish in Dehradun. The traditional dish hails its origins from Pakistan. In Pakistan, the dish is served with piping hot halwa. On the other hand, in Dehradun, Katlambe is served with delicious, spicy Chole.
You can come across this famous local delicacy only at some of the traditional outlets or eateries in the city. Typically, it is a fried bread-based dish featuring a wide range of seasonings and spices. The dish is made wonderful by local vendors with the addition of a unique masala on top.
3. Phaanu
Regarded as another famous food in Dehradun, phaanu depicts a rich, flavourful combination of an array of lentils prepared deliciously to tantalise your taste buds. The dish is prepared by combining different types of lentils that have been soaked overnight for added flavours.
Phaanu is typically a soup-based dish that is fulfilling at the same time. In Dehradun, the locals have this soup-based dish with steamed rice. Some of the core ingredients of the dish are lentils (gahat, arhar), turmeric, oil, and spices.
4. Bread Pakora
Quite popular across North India, this popular snack item has evolved significantly in terms of the overall taste and the use of ingredients. It is a favourite grab-and-go snack in Dehradun amongst both locals and tourists. Bread Pakora is a type of bread sandwich that is dipped in a rich, spicy batter and eventually deep-fried until golden and crispy. Across most famous eateries and street food stalls, this snack item is served with a myriad of delicious chutneys.
5. Kandalee ka Saag
The local cuisine of Uttarakhand meticulously selects the best resources of the state to deliver the best-ever culinary experience to your taste buds. Ultimately, you receive a divine combination of rich flavours and essential nutrients in the same dish. The local delicacy Kandalee ka Saag offers a classic blend of piquant spices and essential nutrients vital for your immune system.
The primary ingredients of the dish impart it the healthy quotient while making it a highly sought-after dish in Dehradun. Some of the core ingredients of the dish include green, leafy vegetables and local spices. Kandalee ka Saag is a delicious leafy preparation just like most other vegetable dishes. However, its primary ingredient is the local Bichhu Ghaas, making it stand out from other preparations.
6. Chainsoo
It is one of the most sought-after recipes in the local Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, including Dehradun. The dish is primarily prepared out of urad dal. It is a popular cuisine in Uttarakhand that features an abundance of proteins and healthy nutrients.
Due to its rich protein content, Chainsoo is fulfilling and wholesome. During the preparation of the dish, lentils are toasted initially. Then, a fine paste is made out of the same. You can relish the aromatic flavours of this rich dish particularly due to the unique cooking method, typically on a low flame and in an iron kadai.
Conclusion
As you planning a trip to Dehradun, you must have a dedicated itinerary to explore its rich food culture. The amazing dishes of the city will amaze you by their unique taste and cooking traditions. You will love trying out the best food in Dehradun, each depicting its own history and culinary tradition.
If you are worn out after exploring the hilly beauty of the place, you can sit back in your comfort and order food online in Dehradun from Swiggy.
FAQs
1. Which foods are must-try in Dehradun?
There is no shortage of popular food items when it comes to exploring the famous food of Dehradun. Some of the must-have options here are chole, gur ka paneer, kathak maas, kandalee ka saag, and so more.
2. Is Dehradun food influenced by other cultures?
The city features a divine mix of cultures, including its local food scene. Here, you can experience the unique amalgamation of influences from Tibetan cuisine, local Garhwal cuisine, and even North Indian cuisine.
